A Convention Reporter's Notebook

The speeches are done and the signs are down at the Democratic National Convention. After an historic week in Denver, Scott Shafer offers up the contents of his reporter's notebook.

• More: Scott's Photos From the DNC
• More: Video: Junior Statesmen at the DNC

Looking Ahead to the RNC

With the two major party conventions back to back this year, republicans are already gathering in Saint Paul for their conclave which begins on Monday. We talk to a California republican blogger and the chair of the California Young Republicans. Guests: Jennifer Rodriguez, delegate to the Republican National Convention and chair of the California Young Republicans ; Jon Fleischman, vice chairman of the California Republican Party representing Southern California and publisher of the political website The Flash Report.

Cisco's Prize

Around the world, Silicon Valley holds the reputation as the capitol of high tech innovation. However, many companies are casting a wider net these days to find that next, next thing. When Cisco Systems -- one of the Valley's pioneers -- looked to build a new multi-million dollar business unit, it created an Internet contest to look beyond the Valley for ideas.

California Songs: The California Blues

As part of our continuing series "California Songs," we hear from Jimmie Rodgers, the "Father of Country Music." Though he was best known for songs about his native Mississippi or peach-pickin' time in Georgia, Rodgers did visit the Golden State and it inspired his Blue Yodel Number Four -- "The California Blues."

Postcard from Camp Curry

Labor Day is the traditional end of summer vacation. But before we clean out the cooler and stash away the bug spray, we're taking one last road trip -- to Yosemite. Curry Village, or Camp Curry, has been the destination for families on a budget for generations.

• More: Photos Slideshow