Gov. Quinn Opens the Show

From Kristen Rich ‘09…

Following Mark Bilek around the show floor on the first day of this internship was a tad frightening. Maybe it was the cranes hanging dangerously above my head, the sounds of distant engines revving, or the daunting task of weaving my way around the show floor. I couldn’t imagine that just a couple days later, I would be navigating myself from exhibit to exhibit with such ease. I don’t even need to use a map anymore!

This morning, newly appointed Gov. Pat Quinn, along with Jesse White and a bunch of other bigwigs, cut the ribbon to open the auto show. I was more than excited to see Jesse White, because I have not only been an Illinois driver for six years, but I’m a huge fan of the Jesse White Tumblers. Besides being completely star-struck, I was also excited to see my first ribbon-cutting ceremony. It was everything I imagined, big scissors and all. And once the ribbon was cut, the floor opened up to the public.

At first, I was apprehensive. I was afraid that the First Look for Charity event last night and all of my behind-the-scenes access had spoiled me and hindered my ability to enjoy the show. But I was definitely wrong. I was sent down to the floor to perform some intern duties and as I did, I sensed a completely different energy throughout the show. People were everywhere, jumping in cars, taking pictures, collecting goodies, running from exhibit to exhibit to see the coolest, fastest, and prettiest cars. I was finally seeing the show in action and that was definitely the best part of this whole experience.