Jimmy Carter @ Changing Hands

This week's opinion was on Jimmy Carter's visit to Changing Hands Bookstore on Friday.

I had a blast talking to people and benefiting from my status as a member of the media — I used my AZ Republic badge to help persuade the lady guarding the door to let me in. Once I was in, Holly, Changing Hand's friendly PR woman — who knows me pretty well from all the events I've covered for them — called me over and set me up. She's so helpful.

The best part, however, was talking to the people assembled outside. I always feel like a real in-the-trenches journalist talking to people at big events.