And on July 13, 1789, the French Aristocracy attended a glittering costume party...

Trey Gowdy's comments are compelling.  I understand that conferences are important for maintaining the spirit and cohesion of any institution, but at some point someone needs to say "this is not right. I'ts just too self-indulgent, inasmuch as we are spending the public's money at a time when people are losing their jobs or being furloughed because of the economy or are taking home less because of the taxes we are collecting."

This is the mentality of "government is a good thing" and the "highest and best use of your money is to pay for government."

Definitely watch this video.