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I am the world's biggest poser. Any moment now the secret service is going to descend on me and toss me unceremoniously back over the iron gates onto Pennsylvania Avenue -- if the White House press corps doesn't do the job first. I actually find myself waiting for the athletes' visit in the White House press room -- no idea what I should be doing, I take a seat, noticing too late that it's reserved for the Tribune Media. Lots of press and lots of activity, I'm noticing, when all of a suuden Ari Fleischer materializes at the podium to give his afternoon briefing! I see John Roberts of CBS News hobbling around on crutches, and other recogizable network correspondents.
As Ari launches into his briefing, the subject quickly turns to the news that Karen Hughes will leave her White House position. The real reporters launch into their Q&A with Ari. I momentarily forget myself and actually snort at some of the more inane questions. Oops! Luckily there is at least one other poser there with me and we bond quickly.
Ushered by and by to the South Lawn's media section where we get positions on the bleachers between NBC News' camera and I don't know who else. Feel incredibly silly but who cares at this point. All the athletes are arraying themselves before us on the steps and balcony of the south portico. Where's Apolo? See everyone else. President comes out, addresses assembled guests and athletes, mentions "Ohno fever" (I forget any semblance of journalistic neutrality and cheer), receives Roots jacket from Tristan Gale and Manuel Guerra, then photo op with athletes. Apolo apparently hiding out from the crazy stalker girl who appears at every turn, like Forrest Gump.
Ceremony ends. I lollygaggle around and then there's Apolo! Am suddenly caught up in group of Olympians, Apolo included, being whisked to a press "stakeout" back near the press room. Surely am toast now, I think. But no. Follow them and become paparazzi again as athletes face the press. Apolo comes and says something to assembled reporters - no idea what, I think I am too familiar with his little speeches now. Concentrating too hard on taking pics. None of them turn out quite right due to real press hogging the best angles, and tricky lighting, and smarty-pants digital camera. Apolo pouting in glare of sun.
It ends, I have yet another chance to go up to him, ask for another pic with him, preferably smiling this time, but I hesitate, the moment is gone. Really very glad I have a day job b/c I am a chicken at this reporting business.
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