HOUSTON -- The credentials around Raphus Foley's neck are like a political trip back in time. The one from July 16, 1992 still looks official, but clearly tells its age.

It was the same convention where Texas Gov. Ann Richards made her famous “Poor George,” speech directed at George H. W. Bush. It was the same year Bill Clinton accepted the Democratic nomination for the presidency.

Foley, who has been to three nominating conventions, remembers 1992 vividly.

“I didn't want to laugh (at Richards comments), but I had to. I had to,” said Foley.

Now Foley is headed out again. This time to Denver to help Sen. Barack Obama secure the nomination.

“I'm going to do all I can to help him win and then some,” said Foley.

There will be 228 delegates from Texas in Denver when the Democratic convention starts next week. Many of the Houston contingent got together Wednesday night for a meet and greet and are anxious for what lies ahead.

“I'm really fired up and looking for a great convention where the whole party comes together,” said delegate Bill Galbraith.

It's no secret this convention has historical significance as Obama is about to become – officially – the first African-American to be a major party nominee for president. For Foley, though, it's much more.

It's personal. Something he never thought he would witness in his lifetime.

“I think he can be one of the best presidents we ever had,” said Foley.

That's why he is doing what he can to make his fourth convention, the one to remember.