WASHINGTON DC FEBRUARY 23 - 26

Greetings from the nation's capitol. Meetings, meetings and more meetings. Once I arrived I have been meeting with almost every state president that produces apples within the U.S. Today was the first day that I was let out of my hotel cage. It has been a very productive trip, but one does get tired of staying inside...espically when it is nice outside.

After breaking free and having an opportunity to meet up for dinner (outside the hotel), I walked past the Library of Congress, National Archeives, the Supreme Court and the Capitol buildings. The Capitol building has a dome and this was the place that President Obama gave his speech last night to congress.

We have a breakfast meeting tomorrow morning and will begin to pack up our things and to the airport we go. It appears that we will be returing to DC in four weeks to meet with several of our congressional leaders and prepare for the new budget and list of priorities that congress is preparing.

Can't wait to see you tomorrow! Give mom and Moose a big hug...

God Bless,

Ottster!

(The top picture is of the capitol dome, the second is a picture of the Library of Congress, the building in the National Treasure 2).

GERMANY - February 2 - 8

GUTEN TAG VON DEUTCHLAND!

Germany has been a blast. The trip started with a delayed air flight on Monday from San Francisco to Frankfurt. Due to the delay, I missed the connection and had to take a five hour train to Berlin. It was a great delay! I was able to see the country side!

After arriving late Tuesday evening, I prepared for our Fruit Logestica Conference. During the three day trade show, I was able to discuss several issues with several countries including friends from: Russia, Mexico, Central America, UK and the U.S. I also met some new friends from England, Canada and Austrlia.

By Friday, Lisa arrived and we were able to start some sight seeing. We saw pieces of the Berlin Wall, Check Point Charlie, the Brandenburger Gate, the Reichstag, Jewish Museum and the Church of Remberance to name a few.

We leave tomorrow and will arrive in the U.S. by the evening.

These pictures include:

The Branderburger Grate, The Reichstag, Check Point Charlie and the Reichstag made out of German Chocolate.

Until then, GOD BLESS,

Ottster