As Long Beach Mayor Bob Foster prepared for the State of the City address on Tuesday evening, I was able to follow him and document what goes into a political speech process from behind the scenes.

Mayor Foster works with the teleprompter technician to perfect his address to the city.

You could feel the heat of the lights and see the words on the teleprompter… which I’m sure could make many knees buckle.

Later that night, The Mayor talks sports in the green room while his chief of staff Becki Ames suggests small last minute introduction tweaks.

In the green room, talking BCS Championship and vintage Giants baseball.

A more pensive moment from Long Beach’s Mayor.

After the introduction, Foster makes his way to the podium in front of an enthusiastic auditorium. This is the part of the night that I was nervous for him… I think my knees would have stopped bending.

The Mayor talked about cutting pension costs to save future generations of the headache. He also threw in some words of wisdom from Homer Simpson which earned a couple good laughs and an overall positive State of the City Address.

    
I wouldn’t have noticed the black band on the American flag, but I saw everyone trying to figure out how to attach it to the flag itself… this commemorates the tragedy and loss in the Tucson shootings.

After the speech, Councilmember Gary DeLong and Vice Mayor Suja Lowenthal greet the Mayor.

Foster greets and shakes hands with former California Governor George Deukmejian

Bob and Nancy Foster pose for a picture with friends

Relaxing with a taste of scotch, Bob shares a laugh with Long Beach Police officer Bender.

After a successful speech, Long Beach mayor Bob Foster leaves with his wife and staff.