even before their campaign performances in front of millions of people, you've heard halia's voice alreadyn idol." [cheers and applause] and as a boston college basketball player, many fans know that she's also pretty good on the court. i asked the president because he has a couple of basketball courts there -- [laughing] [cheers and applause] when i spoke to the president, the first thing i said was, would you like me to drive the truck down to washington so you can see it? [inaudible] then i said, mr. president, i know you like basketball so i'll tell you what. why don't you pick your best player, i'll take ayla, we'll take you on two-on-two. [cheers and applause] and fortunately he had a good sense of humor. we had a nice laugh. but i really do appreciate, obviously speaking to senator, the governor, the president, and a whole host of other folks. i'm very thankful for them reaching out so we can start to get on with the people's business. i'm grateful for all of those from across massachusetts who came through for me even when it was a long shot. i especially want to thank a very speci