Beijing Dispatch: Glenn Stilwell Reports

Glenn Stilwell, a friend from Sacramento who’s working as an engineer at the water polo venue at the Beijing Olympics, has checked in a few hours before the Games’ opening day.

8/07/08 Dispatch No. 3

“Been here a week and by the looks of the place we’re ready to go. I saw Golden State Warriors’ play-by-play man Bob Fitzgerald. He’s going to be the water polo announcer for NBC.

“We got him all set at our #1 commentary position today. The cameras are in place and engineers are scrambling on the final touches. Last night, I went to the Hou Hi district which is around a little lake. It’s nothing but bars and cafes. It was a good time had by all and I’m sure we will be back.

“From the sleepy little town it was when I got here, our village has turned into the bustling metropolis. Now there are hundreds of people around the plaza enjoying lively conversation and in my case the 10- meter square area that has a strong enough wifi signal.

“It is very hot and humid most of the time. I’ve turned my AC down to 22 degrees Celsius. Our driver picks us up in the morning and luckily for us he’s already got the car cooled off by the time he arrives. This does pose an interesting phenomenon as my glasses instantly fog up upon exiting the vehicle.

“Our venue has a similar situation as it gets a bit hazy inside during the day. We have out own little micro climate inside. When I exit on my way to lunch the air seems very, very heavy. One thing about hanging around a bunch of TV engineers is that we always find ways to do things.

“A Russian sitting next to me and talking to family back home on his laptop is using iTunes. Free calls back home, that’s a great idea! OK, looks like the laundry is done. Need to get a good night’s sleep. We have an early buss tomorrow and my fellow thespians and I are going to visit the Great Wall of China in the afternoon. Shea Shea (Thank You) for listening… Glenn.