Author: Cristina Córdova

  • Eye of the Storm

    After the press is settled in, the doors open to the general public. It’s about 10 past six. The crowds file in, steadily, slowly, filling the arena. Is this an arena? I think it is. And right now, it feels like we’re the show — broken gladiators. I don’t see anyone turn to the crowd.…

  • When I say "O", You Say "Bama!"

    7:00 p.m. Out on the sidewalk, the lines of people snake around the block. A pack of Obama playing cards sells for $10. The Obama volunteers are warming up the crowd as they make their way into the venue. "When I say O," chants one Obama volunteer. "You say…" "BAMA!" the crowd yells back.

  • Meet the Press

    Finding the press area was hard enough. All the way on the other side. No, go back the way you came. Straight down there and to the left. Down by the loading area. Across the street. Down. Down. Really? We have to cross the street — away from the Xcel Center — to get in.…

  • Something in the Air

    I’m not easily moved — not by people anyhow, not by masses, that is. I was certainly moved by Brendel’s performance at Orchestra Hall a few months ago. And now, now I am moved. This time by people coming together. How sappy that sounds. How cynical I am. The Xcel is engulfed in bodies, live…

  • Jumping Off the Kawarau Bridge

    Dear Daughter, Having a grand time in New Zealand, but if you don’t stop fussing, we’re not sending any more postcards. Just remember that 70 is the new 30. Guess what’s hot in Queenstown? [reference to postcard photo — bungy jumping off the Kawarau Bridge] Sometimes in the nude! We tried it with our clothes…

  • Bags Save Lives

    Today marks the opening of Imaginary Bags at One On One Bicycle Studio (117 North Washington). For one week, a limited series edition of messanger bags — with one-of-a-kind graphics by eight local and national artists — will be on display at One On One, and open for auction bids. The weeklong event — a…