the end of yearlykos

Having left Las Vegas, while sitting in the Fargo airport (with free wi-fi) some quick hits from the rest of the conference:

• Former Virginia Governor Mark Warner hosted a party at the top of the Stratosphere. Walking off the elevator, a man was pouring drinks through an ice sculpture. There was sushi and a mashed potato bar. Most people at the conference were a bit disgusted with the extravagance, I was impressed with his political operation. The blogosphere (a horrible word) is a serious fundraising machine (to say nothing of the value of its political support), and was treated as such at this event.
  
• Saturday, Governor Warner spoke to the convention. His record in Virginia is undeniable, and he presented a compelling message to unite the country, invest in technology to make America competitive, coupled with vague ideas about foreign policy. He's a good speaker, and has tremendous staff. With the current field of competitors, I think he'll win both the nomination and the White House.
  
• The young male/young female ratio at the conference seemed approximately 75:1, while the attractive male/attractive female ration was about 0:5.
  
• Sen. Harry Reid gave the keynote on Saturday night, a passionate speech about the need for intelligence reform. The positive reception for the anti-choice, pro-gun Minority Leader was yet another demonstration that the online liberal community isn't a bunch of rabid flaming leftists.
  
• Las Vegas is just as bizarre as it was when I visited in 2003, and still somewhere I don't think I'll ever go without a convention or other event to bring me.
  
• In just a few hours we'll find out just how good USA Soccer is. A win would solidify the US's place among the global soccer powerhouses, while a loss would serious jeopardize their chances to advance to the second round.