Hurricane Isaac Spoils Couple's Republican Convention Plans

TAMPA, FL — Phil and Dianne Ruhlandt, of Redford, MI, wanted to take advantage of Tampa Bay's outdoor activities during their down time at the Republican National Convention, but Tropical Storm Isaac threw a wrench into those plans. 

"We were going to go on a hot air balloon and go jet skiing," said Dianne, an attorney and an alternate delegate. Then the two went to the Florida Aquarium, only to find it was closed.

On Thursday afternoon, they were trying to fit some downtown sightseeing into a few hours before the RNC reconvened for its final day at the Tampa Bay Times Forum.

Still, excitement was high for the couple, who are active in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and share a faith with presidential candidate Mitt Romney.

Phil, a building mechanic for a church, says Romney's humility goes hand-in-hand with his Mormonism.

"In a world today where everyone seems they have to blow their own horn and say 'I did that,' that's not Mitt," he said.

Dianne said she's crossed paths with Romney's extended family in Michigan through her church and believes the candidate's background and commitment to his faith will make him a good leader.

"He was a bishop and doesn't brag about it," Dianne said. "But as a bishop you you are shepherd of that congregation."