An Evening with MSNBC's Chris Matthews

Your humble blogger attended Chris Matthews's (the host/anchor of MSNBC's 'Hard Ball with Chris Matthews'show) talk on March 8, 2012 during 'Writers LIVE' event at historic Enoch Pratt Central Library in Baltimore and had a chance to talk with him during book signing. Chris Matthews was in Baltimore to talk about his latest book entitled 'Jack Kennedy: Elusive Hero' that came out in late 2011. Chris was lively & engaging during the talk. He captivated the house-full crowd providing intimate portrait of John F. Kennedy from the time of JFK's childhood, his heroic saving of fellow combatants during World War II in the Pacific and JFK's political life. He interjected his talk about JFK from time to time with comparison to current politics & contemporary politicians, particularly to stress JFK's unique ability to lead & connect thru hard retail politics.

Our signed copy of Chris Matthew's 'Jack Kennedy: Elusive hero.

After the talk and Q&A session, big line formed to get copy of the book signed by Chris. There were not enough copies of the book for all who wanted to purchase the book. Hence, some had to leave but some die hard fans like us stayed to get at least to get Chris's sign on cute book marker from the book store that was selling his book and later buy the book. One former Peace Corps Volunteer fellow who stood behind us in the line was kind enough to sell us one of the copies he bought for others. During the book signing, Chris Matthews was as friendly as cozy as regular guy and he talked to us free-willy. BTW, Chris Matthews was also Peace Corps Volunteer who served in Africa in the '60s, in Swaziland to be particular. When our turn came for Chris to sign our book and I told him I am originally from Ethiopia, he told me that he came to Ethiopia with Senator Mickey Leland in the '80s. As you may know Senator Mickey Leland made several visits to Ethiopia with American officials during mid 1980s to co-ordinate relief activities for victims of the 1984-'86 famine. He died in tragic plane crash in Ethiopia.
All in all, your humble blogger had intellectually stimulating and exciting experience that evening. If Chris Matthews happen to pass by your city and have similar event, do not miss it. It is guaranteed to be exciting & fun experience. Long Live Chris! Vive Chris Matthews!