DNC Dispatch: Local Delegates Talk Michelle

This week's Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, NC began with a tribute to party stalwarts past and speeches by party icons present.

(For Patch's coverage of the Republican National Convention, click here.)

A tribute to the late U.S. Sen. Ted Kennedy initiated the event, with speeches by former White House chief-of staff Rahm Emmanuel and Illinois governor Pat Quinn following.

The inaugural night housed familiar rhetoric on the importance of health care, and a woman's right to choose, but some surprising twists, too—like the absence of the word "God" in the party's platform. The campaign's literature is also less pro-Israel than it was four years ago. 

The night's apex was a speech by First Lady Michelle Obama, who spoke of her husband's personal traits and character much like .

Michelle Obama was keen to delve into the President's humble origins—his rusted car, his shoes that didn't fit—and declare the presidency hasn't changed him personally.

"Watching [Michelle Obama] speak gave me hope, and I felt inspired to continue to work hard for the campaign," said , co-president of the Rockland County Young Democrats and a delegate at this year's convention.

"She showed us the First Family is like any family in Rockland; they have the same hopes and dreams for our children that we do," he added.

Coe said one of the night's high points was the sentiment of inclusion; he was heartened by the diversity of speakers, Coe said.

And when the convention comes to a close Thursday, Coe and the other Young Democrats in Rockland plan to galvanize the youth at home to support Obama and overcome Romney and Ryan's "antiquated" ticket, Coe said.

"What we see is that young people, the millennial generation, really have the power to impact the election," he added.

Coe is joined this week by fellow Rocklander Stephanie Hausner, a Clarkstown councilmember and secretary of the DNC Youth Council. She is slated to speak to colleagues at a caucus meeting at noon on Wendesday.

Hausner also said she read the party platform before hearing the criticism, and did not take any issues.

"It still shows strong support for Israel's security, and takes a harsh stance on Iran's proliferation of nuclear weapons," she said.

Readers can also check in with New Rochelle mayor Noam Bramson, a Dem. delegate .

U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and and former president Bill Clinton are slated to speak Wednesday night.