The pleasure of meeting Helen Thomas today and discussing Al Gore

[Samantha]

A Republican friend invited me to lunch today, along with another Democratic cohort of mine. My back was to the door as I ate lunch, so I did not see those entering to grab a quick bite.

My Republican friend looked over my shoulder and said, "Oh, look, there's the reporter from UPI." I turned to do just that, but saw no one I recognized.

"I don't see anyone I recognize," I said.

"Look to the front of the line. I can't remember her name, but she's been with UPI for years," he responded.

I looked to the front of the line and could not believe Helen Thomas was quietly waiting to be served. "That's Helen Thomas," I exclaimed, and jumped up to greet her. It quickly crossed my mind how rude it would seem to interrupt Helen trying to simply have a lunch, but I could not restrain myself. Quickly I crossed the room and put out my hand.

She smiled at me, and so I said, "I just wanted to tell you I have admired your work for years. I belong to the Democratic Underground. This organization sent you some flowers recently. I hope you know you have many admirers there."

"Thank you," she said, "Thank you."

I turned to find my seat, still not believing my good fortune. As I picked up my napkin, Helen appeared at the table where I lunched with my friends.

"Tell the Democrats they must get their act together," she smilingly said. I looked into her beautiful face and threw back my head and laughed. "Ah, Helen, that's what we are counting on you for," I said.

"Tell me who do you think the Democrats will nominate," I requested.

Helen responded, "I think Hillary has it as of now."

My reaction (and excuse me, Hillary fans) was, "I think, Helen, you will find the party elite supports a Hillary run but much of the base does not. Many people in the Democratic base cannot forgive her signing the resolution that gave Bush* the authority to initiate the war. The DLC supports Hillary, but many of the people in the base do not want her to run."

Helen acknowledged her familiarity with this organization, the DLC, and I followed up with my personal burning question of the moment.

"Do you think Al Gore will run?"

Helen said, "I do not think he will actively pursue the nomination, but if he sees a void or if he is asked, I think he would be willing to run."

"That is my hope, that Al Gore runs," I told Helen.

As we conversed, I could not help but remember how this woman, who I consider to be a national treasure, was relegated to the back of the press room by the Bush* administration. I thought at the time it does not take a big man to treat a woman like this in that shameful manner, it takes only a small man.

Helen looks one straight in the eye and speaks candidly when she answers. She paved the way for women like Eleanor, Nora, and Katie to walk on a traditionally male turf, stand up and ask the hard questions. If Helen had not the audacity to do it first, they might not be doing this now. Every female reporter owes a debt of gratitude to Helen Thomas for opening political doors that they have walked through. That aside, this Country owes Helen a debt of attitude for the tough questions she has asked and for the fortitude she has shown in persistently going after the answers.

But back to the conversation ...

"Al Gore will be at Olsson's Books Thursday at Noon," I told Helen. "Oh," she responded, and her eyes seemed to twinkle.

Then her friend appeared and Helen left. I pulled a small pad from my purse and quickly scribbled a note, "Helen, may I buy you lunch some time?" I signed my name and included my home and cell numbers. I walked to where she stood and handed her the note. She smiled at me. I thought she nodded slightly yes as she read the note, but perhaps I will have to wait to see.

As I walked back to my office, I could not help but think of Helen's words. All this week, I have been pondering what will I say to Al Gore Thursday if I am fortunate enough to approach his table and get him to sign my copy of "An Inconvenient Truth."

Perhaps I should say, "Al, I am here because Helen Thomas told me we Dems have to get our act together. You wouldn't want to disappoint Helen Thomas, now would you, Al?"

I am so happy to be able to share this experience with my DU friends, my extremely good fortune in being able to meet and talk to Helen Thomas, and to let you know Al Gore's whereabouts in DC on Thursday. I am indeed a fortunate person to live and work in Washington, D.C. where from time to time one manages to bump into a few of his or her political heroes.

As far as taking Helen's advice personally, I am penning another letter to Al Gore, but that's another thread ...

[durrrty libby]

1. Lucky lady K & R ( he's on Larry King now) n/t

[Samantha]

3. I am watching him now and manning this thread

I can multi-task when politically necessary.

[NewJeffCT]

2. Thanks - that was a nice story

maybe we should all ask Al Gore to run?

[Patsy Stone]

4. Thank you for that story

Helen Thomas is indeed a national treasure. Lucky you! BTW, I love Olsson's Books. :)

[Samantha]

6. I am watching Al, thinking about Helen, and wondering what you

would ask Al Thursday if you were at Olsson's? I hope to get up to his table, but I have no idea how many people will be there.

What if it were you, what would you say?

[Patsy Stone]

12. Ask him if he *wants* to be president.

Not if he wants to run, but if he wants the job. Is the desire there? I'd also find a way to suggest that his not running is selfish. Since he has the ability to effect great change in the world, and moreso as president.

I'm all over the place. I also want to hear whether he regrets his decision to certify the election.

Good luck and, again, lucky girl.

[IndyOp]

18. I would apologize for not getting myself to Florida in November 2000 -

to organize a massive citizen's demonstration to counter the Brooks-Brother's Riot - the GOP congressional shills flown down to Florida on Halliburton jets to steal our democracy.

If I met Al Gore, I would apologize. It breaks my heart to realize that I had NO CLUE what Gore was doing by standing alone for 36 days to defend our democracy. It breaks my heart that I had NO CLUE what the GOP was doing in 2000 (and has done repeatedly before and since then). I try not to hate the Americans who still don't have a clue about election fraud - who cling to reasonable explanations instead of seeing the cold, hard, nasty truth. It helps me to remember when I had no clue.

If I met Al Gore, I would apologize. I am truly humbled by what he did to defend our nation. It would have been so much easier to concede quickly when he realized what he was up against and to save face so he could run again. Instead he fought, and the corporate media drug him down into the mud and has continued to attack him because they fear the man who knows the truth.

If I met Al Gore, I would apologize.

[Samantha]

23. I actually thought about that ... asking him to give US a second chance

I did follow election 2000 very closely. I did realize he was virtually standing alone. When I came to this website in 2001, I came angry at the Democrats who left him swinging in the wind, without their support. And I was flamed for it. Then I went through a period of time feeling simply disgusted with myself for not having fought harder. I look at Al Gore and think about everything so many people have lost, from their children in Iraq, a war which Gore opposed, to their retirements. I cannot find the words in a simple sentence to let Al Gore know how much I feel we let him down nor do I feel I would have the opportunity to say more than a few words -- if I get to the table. Thus, inspired by Helen Thomas' encouragement, I am penning another thread on this subject, but now simply search for a few meaningful words to say to the man who should be our President.

Thank you for your response.

[AuntiBush]

33. IndyOp, You're not alone with that Apology to Al Gore.

Feel the same exact way. Al Gore, if you read this my apologies as well. I should have done more, but at that time I had no clue about election fraud.

I do now.

edited for typos

[AuntiBush]

34. kick!

[lildreamer316]

56. How about a mass-signed email of apology to Gore?

It could only help; I would think...

We, the undersigned citizens of the U.S of A.; would like to extend to Mr. Al Gore (President Al Gore?) a heartfelt apology for not having realized how horrible the forces that you fought against in Election 2000 were; and for not doing more to help you in your struggle to save American democracy as we knew it.

etc; etc.--I can't write very well.

[AuntiBush]

32. Ask him to "run in '08!"

[Gregorian]

5. :)

I love being proud of someone. That took guts. But you found out a tidbit. Let's hope.

[GreenPartyVoter]

7. Yeah I think you should tell Al that

[lonestarnot]

8. You better get your ass to Olson's books on Thursday and have a persuasive

speech prepared! Don't forget to buy a book!

[Samantha]

9. My ass is there! I took a vacation day off! I bought the book! I want

your questions, or at least one profound political thought that will galvanize Al Gore. What is that question or thought?

[lonestarnot]

13. Ok, but will not rush to give it too you. I must think, but will be back!

:*

[Samantha]

25. You have until tomorrow night to think about it (as do I)

We need to think carefully to find just the right few words.

[lonestarnot]

26. Agree. Must be very thoughtful.

[lonestarnot]

61. Ok... I've thought. Can I p.m. a letter for you to give to him?

Figure if I give him a letter through you, we will both know he gets it. You don't have to put it in an envelope, so he's not freaked out about you giving him anything wierd. If this is acceptable, please respond soon so I can draft it.

[Samantha]

65. Here's the problem

I have just drafted a letter. I am going to post it on this website. I am going to print it off and try to give a copy to Tipper Gore tomorrow. Two letters might be a bit of an overkill.

Why don't you post your draft on this thread we are on, and I will think about this some more. I don't want to quash your hopes (I would feel the same as you); it's just that I would feel extremely lucky to get one letter in and I have incorporated many of the thoughts responders asked me to say. Do you understand ... I hope so.

[lonestarnot]

70. Yes. We're cool and Peace on you! Wishing for a successful encounter

tomorrow! :thumbsup: :applause:

[lyonn]

21. My burning question is will the Dems be able to

get their msg. out there and not be swamped by the Rove machine which gives talking points to every repub. that might get tv time. Or Will the dems running for office realise they cannot just rely of their advisors, they must be a people person, let people know you know their issues and pain. Course he is there to talk global warming but that issue may get trashed again if the dems don't take Some control.

Edit: Maybe Helen said it better, "get their act together."

[Paulie]

24. Question:

What would it take for us to show you how much we need you, and WHEN we show you, will you serve?

[Samantha]

27. That's a good question

Think about it some more and come up with your final answer tomorrow night. I will read this thread again for everyone's final thoughts of just the right, few words.

It's a once in a lifetime opportunity, I believe.

[Cha]

10. What a Day,

you've had! I'm so impressed how you responded to Helen Thomas..you might have made her day, too!

[Samantha]

11. zidzi, do you have a question

Gore was just asked if Hillary is the favorite. "I think she is," he said, "but it's too early ..."

[Cha]

22. Gore's right..it's too early and

hillary's not "running". She's running for Senator from New York.

My question for Gore would be..more like a statement; in that I support him in any way he wants to help our Country and the Planet and Thank him Profusely for all that he has contributed!

Thanks, Samantha!

[patrice]

14. I respect H.T. more than any of the others.

I love that little video I've seen her in on The Daily Show? or the Colbert Report?

[aquart]

15. You behaved just as you ought.

I adore that woman.

[thereismore]

16. A great story. This is why DU is so great. I get to know

a lot more of what's going on from stories like this. Unlike some of the posts as of late that carry 0 informational content, this one was great. K&R

[Samantha]

29. I am so happy you liked it -- I skipped my dinner and wrote it for people

like you.

[sweetheart]

17. mmm guud nt kr

[MissWaverly]

19. What a lovely story, thanks for being our Ambassador

Kudos to you! I am also a big fan of Al Gore!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


Hiliary, not so much, since she is so hawkish on the war, and criticizes young people, when
I see young people today with so many worries, struggling to get by, my heart goes out to
all.

:-)

[Samantha]

31. MissWaverly, what one thought or question do you want Al Gore asked?

I too feel for the young people, those sent off to fight an illegal, immoral war -- those left behind who cannot find a job, those with a job who must try to find a part-time one as well due to the tanking of the dollar.

What do we want to say to Al Gore?

[MissWaverly]

57. My question for Al Gore

Mr. Gore, I am sure there are many questions you have been asked before, from Global Warming
to the Iraq War. Please tell us what to say to our country to keep hope alive.

I think what worries me is the despair that we have in this country right now, that is
what killed those men at GITMO, loss of hope, it's eating away at us everywhere.

[Minnesota Libra]

20. You're so lucky to have met Helen Thomas, it would be so............

.... educational to just pick her brain for an hour.O8)

[Samantha]

35. Believe me, if I ever have the chance, I will tell her I am reporting her

thoughts and ideas to her admirers at DU. I seem to work close to her office, and I pray she calls my number some day when she finds nothing else to do. I loved the woman.

[BuelahWitch]

28. Gore in DC on Thursday?

Now I know why my friends Mabus and Adm. Loinpresser went to DC for the week!

[goforit]

69. Great story and a great wish. Hope Gore reconsiders.

[AuntiBush]

30. Samantha....

If you get the opportunity to speak with Al Gore, tell him almost everyone I'm aware of wants him to run in '08.

And thanks for the great story of your meeting with Helen Thomas. She is one of of many unsung hero's, like Al Gore.

P.S. Just watched Al Gore on CNN. Major :thumbsup: Shew, it was great seeing him again, live on Larry King. I don't care what anyone says, Al Gore should run again, and believe he would win, hands-down. He needs to run as a service to this nation.

[OwnedByFerrets]

36. Thank you Samantha

for that great, emotional and very moving post. I felt as though I were there with you. :)

[Samantha]

41. Thank you OwnedByFerrets, do you have a few words for Al Gore?

We need to convince him he must run or we will die!

[Samantha]

39. Thank you, I listened to him as I manned this thread

All I could think about was how intelligent he is, how articulate, and how deprived we are that a man like Bush* speaks for us and the man we elected, Al Gore, does not. Following the Larry King segment, a news flash starting out "President Bush" (sic) -- it seemed surreal to hear the word "President" next to "Bush" after listening to the man I consider to be our "real" president speak so intelligently about the problems we face.

Titles aside, Gore is my leader. I hope I can say in 2009 he is my leader and my President who sits in the Oval Office and speaks to the world on my and your behalf.

One must wonder, however, how Gore can allow someone like Bush* to speak for him ... it must drive him crazy! It must truly seem like a nightmare, regardless of how Gore publicly tries to smooth it over.

[Digit]

37. Please invite him to visit us here at DU!

I envy you Samantha for being able to meet with Helen!

[Samantha]

42. Don't envy me Digit, visit DC yourself and you will meet some of your

political heroes. It is inevitable. You will meet some of your political foes too. That is inevitable as well. I don't post about those meetings here...

[Digit]

50. I was born in DC and lived in NoVa most of my life...fighting like hell

to get back, but the housing prices are outrageous! Of course they waited until I sold my property in N Arlington that was a mere 7 minute walk to the metro to spiral out of control!

My mothers boyfriend lived next to the Doles, my old boyfriend lived next to the Fords in Alexandria....oh yeah, I know the area well.

[Pastiche423]

38. I can not find the words

to express how jealous I am of you.

You handled yourself wonderfully! Thank you for, once again, reminding Helen of how very much she is admired. (I've printed out both of her email responses to me, to keep w/me forever.)

As to the question to Al Gore, if you can somehow express to him how great the need is for him to be our president, he might realize that it's his time.

P.S. Thank you bunches for sharing your story w/us.

[Samantha]

45. how great the need is ... how great the need is ... okay, got it

but keep thinking and let me know by tomorrow night if there's anything else.

[BigBearJohn]

40. I LOVED your post. Thanks for giving us this. Sure did enjoy it!

[Samantha]

46. and what is your question or thoughts for Al Gore, BigBearJohn?

and thank you for your kind words.

[BigBearJohn]

55. Pls tell him that NEVER in our history have we needed him MORE

We need a REAL leader. We need AL GORE.
He has the stature and the intelligence to
get the job done.

[Us vs Them]

43. You probably made Helen's day, too!

And what a shout-out you gave to DU. It's great to know that people like you are helping to spread OUR message, the true rank-and-file Democrats.

If you happen to get the chance to talk to our man tomorrow, tell him that we don't like Hillary. She's not a true option for us. And that the only way we could possibly save America is by re-electing Al Gore.

[Samantha]

44. A question for originators of DU

I have seen the banner flown at the inauguration of Bush* following the election 2000 controversy. The banner advertised the startup of the DemocraticUnderground and was held by protestors who later kicked this site into being. I am not sure who literally held that banner.

Skinner, if you were one of those peope, don't you think it would be entirely appropriate to post you words here for Al Gore? unless of course you intend to be at Olsson's yourself....

[Samantha]

47. Please keep this thread bumped for the Day Crowd

I will check back tomorrow evening for your final thoughts.

[Lugnut]

48. How wonderful, Samantha!

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience. I've been a Helen Thomas fan forever. I'm old enough to remember the days when real journalists were on the White House beat and asked the questions for which the American people wanted answers. What a concept.

[Iniquitous Bunny]

49. I love that woman.

Plus, she's right.

[femrap]

51. thank you for sharing this story....

Helen is one of my heroines as well. When she started out as a journalist, she was relelgated to the balcony at the WH, you know. A true Trailblazer.

You're lucky to live in DC...as you said...and I for one appreciate hearing about what goes on there.

Thx.

[Kurovski]

52. K&R.

What a perfectly lovely chance meeting, and thank you for taking the time to share it with us.

She is a perfectly wonderful woman and reporter.

[NastyDiaper]

53. Thanks for the story.

No book signings in my area :(. A local theater (Lakeland, fl) announced IT :).

[Rhiannon12866]

54. K&R!!! What a terrific experience!!!

And a marvelous conversation. Wow. Thank you so much for sharing this with us!:woohoo:

Rhiannon:hi:

[progressivebydesign]

58. Awesome encounter! You did well! Okay.. now what to tell Al..

Perhaps you can tell him that the environment can't wait for him to complete his recovering politician program, he's needed now.

I noticed that Tipper was rather pointed in an interview about Gore running.. not in 2008.. but at a later time. She mentioned that he had no plans to run IN 2008, but he was only in his 50s. and it was said as tho it's a future idea. Well.. if Al truly means what he says in his film, he'd know that another 12 years of republican rule can completely devastate the planet. He can do so much more for his passionate cause by being the guy in charge of it all.. than simply educating us. That's what I'd like him to know. Hope you can meet him!

[Samantha]

59. Kicking this thread for perhaps a few more responses

I came back and read everyone's comments. I do not know if I will get near his table tomorrow (if there's a huge crowd).

When I went to Ted Kennedy's book signing at Border's, a man was already standing at the end of the line with a sign saying "the line ends here." It was wonderful standing close to Ted Kennedy and hearing him converse with people. I watched him as he walked away, and there is truly no comparison between seeing someone on television and seeing them in person.

I plan to get to Olsson's early tomorrow and I will keep everyone's comments in mind.

If anyone has any other suggestions, please post them tonight. I'll keep checking. And I will also let all of you know what happens tomorrow.

Thank you for all your comments.

Sam

[helderheid]

60. Thank you so much for this!

[SharonRB]

62. What a great story, Samantha

I hope I have one of my own to tell sometime later this summer. I don't know for sure yet, but I may have an opportunity to meet Al Gore myself. I'm already trying to figure out what I can say to him to convince him to run if I do.

[Samantha]

66. It's a problem, isn't it, trying to find the right words

The words others have used haven't done the trick, so what can we possibly come up with?

[SharonRB]

71. Once I know if I'm actually going to meet him,

I may try to get a huge thread going on DU and print it out and take it to him to show him how much support he has. Stay tuned.

[SharonRB]

63. What a great story, Samantha

I hope I have one of my own to tell sometime later this summer. I don't know for sure yet, but I may have an opportunity to meet Al Gore myself. I'm already trying to figure out what I can say to him to convince him to run if I do.

[Missy Vixen]

64. Samantha, please tell Mr. Gore

he promised that he would fight for us.

We need a fighter now, more than ever.

We're on our knees: Please run.

Julie

[Clark2008]

67. Wonderful you got to meet her, she's class... BUT

why would you write a letter to Al Gore stating, "Al, I am here because Helen Thomas told me we Dems have to get our act together. You wouldn't want to disappoint Helen Thomas, now would you, Al."?

I mean, Ms. Thomas didn't exactly say she was supporting him or that she even is "for" him, per se. I mean, she always has a twinkle in her eye because she's just that type of woman.

Don't get me wrong, if you want Al to run, by all means, write him, but don't mislead him.

[Samantha]

68. I was being facetious

That's the problem with you Clark guys -- you are just too serious!

I have drafted my letter to Al Gore. I hope to post it tomorrow. I hope you read it. Thanks and goodnight.