I can sum up my opinions of the Iraq war simply by saying I am anti-war, anti-Bush, and I want our troops out of Iraq. I was against the war from the start and was completely against the troop surge. But, my story is much more complicated than the average, impersonal outlook on the war. My brother, Joseph Marzzacco is a United States Marine who served a year long tour of duty in Iraq. Most Americans are now against the war and against Bush, we know this. But, what do the troops who are actually fighting this war think of all these issues, and how will they vote in the upcoming election? By talking to my brother, I learned that for two people who grew up side by side, we have completely opposite opinions of these current events.
I will openly say I hated Bush from the beginning. When he sent my brother to Iraq I hated him even more. But, the person who had to deal with actually being there supports Bush. Why is this? As Joe explained, “I do support President Bush and have from the beginning. Everyone has forgotten about how he united this country after 9/11.”
The war in Iraq, in my opinion, was a mistake from the beginning, along with the troop surge. I always find it hard to believe when I hear people saying that they support it. According to my brother, “I supported the war from the beginning. That’s why I became a Marine. I will say that we could’ve waited to go into Iraq, but again, from what I know; another 9/11 could’ve been launched from Iraq if we didn’t act and I do believe the troop surge has been working. Casualties will go down and the Iraqi Army will have more time to train.”
In my opinion, our troops need to be pulled out of Iraq immediately. When I said this to my brother, he was really offended. He said, “I honestly don’t believe we will ever be completely out of Iraq. We will definitely have bases their similar to the ones in Japan, Germany, and South Korea. If we were to pull out completely, Iraq would be at risk of falling into the hands of another dictator and we’d have to go back in a few years anyway.
From what I’ve heard from the Democrats, troops deployed to Iraq were not getting the benefits they needed or benefits for their families. But, what my brother told me completely discredits the information I have. He explained, “I do feel that injured troops get good benefits. I have a combat related disability and the treatment and compensation I receive are much better than I would’ve gotten from a work related injury in the private sector. Also, the benefits have increased every year. When I was deployed, my wife gave birth to our son while caring for our daughter. She was eligible to leave work and receive benefits including my combat pay, military health insurance, and separation pay. How do you think she survived?”
The main thing I was eager to hear from my brother, were his opinions about the candidates in the upcoming Presidential election. From what I know about him, I probably could’ve guessed who he’d support. “I can’t answer for all troops, but I support Senator McCain. He has the military background to make good decisions regarding our security and safety. On the Democratic side, I like Obama. But, I could never support a candidate who wants to lead this country but has not served in the military himself.
Like I said, my brother and I have really conflicting opinions about war, the President, and the upcoming election. However, I will admit that what he told me really makes sense when looking at it from his perspective. He said it best when he told me, “Everyone is entitled to their opinions of the war and politics. But, it is one thing to debate it in a classroom full of people who don’t understand war and then to actually get your boots on the ground in Iraq and have the honor to fight for your country.” So many American families are being torn apart by their conflicting opinions about these issues. You should always say exactly what you feel, but when someone disagrees with us, we have to respect them. In my situation, taking my own advice is harder than it sounds and is a work in progress.
Katie Marzzacco ‘09
Communication Studies
Wilkes University
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
Such a Sucker for a Sweet Talker
Senator Barrack Obama recently made a campaign stop right here at Wilkes University in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. As anyone who knows me will say, I am not shy about being a Hillary Clinton supporter through and through. But, my attendance at the recent speech given here at Wilkes by Obama had me nearly second guessing my choice to support Hillary.
On the same day Obama visited Wilkes University, Clinton made a stop at our very closely neighboring school, King's College. Of course, being the headstrong Hillary supporter I am, I was looking forward to attending her speech. However, the fact that Obama tickets were much easier to require, plus the fact that I had no ride to King's led me to my decision to go see Obama and see what he had to say.
As I sat among the boisterous Obama supporters, I couldn't help but find the little Obama chants they shouted to be a little bit catchy. As Obama came out, cheers filled the gym here at Wilkes. As Obama started talking, I was still not expecting to be thrilled.
Half way through the speech, I found myself nodding in agreement and clapping with each assertion Obama made. His voice was sure and powerful, and his demeanor was very relaxed and approachable. He seemed to quickly develop a rapport with all of us in the audience, making us feel as if he was speaking to us individually as well as a whole community. He smiled as people asked him questions and even took time to approach a young boy that was seated in the audience. I'll admit it. I was completely put under the Obama spell that so many friends of mine have fallen under. Was I actually starting to like Obama more than Hillary?
As I walked out of the gymnasium, I started thinking that this guy deserves some credit. Even though the answers he gave to all of the questions in the meeting were void of any detail and actual plan, I still liked the way they sounded. How is it that a candidate who repeatedly avoids going into detail about any of his policies manages to do so well? The combination of his powerful voice, his charismatic attitude, and his ability to, pardon my French, bullshit may actually win him the Democratic nomination. Amazing.
Katie Marzzacco '09
Wilkes University
Communication Studies
On the same day Obama visited Wilkes University, Clinton made a stop at our very closely neighboring school, King's College. Of course, being the headstrong Hillary supporter I am, I was looking forward to attending her speech. However, the fact that Obama tickets were much easier to require, plus the fact that I had no ride to King's led me to my decision to go see Obama and see what he had to say.
As I sat among the boisterous Obama supporters, I couldn't help but find the little Obama chants they shouted to be a little bit catchy. As Obama came out, cheers filled the gym here at Wilkes. As Obama started talking, I was still not expecting to be thrilled.
Half way through the speech, I found myself nodding in agreement and clapping with each assertion Obama made. His voice was sure and powerful, and his demeanor was very relaxed and approachable. He seemed to quickly develop a rapport with all of us in the audience, making us feel as if he was speaking to us individually as well as a whole community. He smiled as people asked him questions and even took time to approach a young boy that was seated in the audience. I'll admit it. I was completely put under the Obama spell that so many friends of mine have fallen under. Was I actually starting to like Obama more than Hillary?
As I walked out of the gymnasium, I started thinking that this guy deserves some credit. Even though the answers he gave to all of the questions in the meeting were void of any detail and actual plan, I still liked the way they sounded. How is it that a candidate who repeatedly avoids going into detail about any of his policies manages to do so well? The combination of his powerful voice, his charismatic attitude, and his ability to, pardon my French, bullshit may actually win him the Democratic nomination. Amazing.
Katie Marzzacco '09
Wilkes University
Communication Studies
Live in Person with Obama and Clinton
April 1, 2008 will always be a day I remember because it was the day I had the privilege of seeing two of our nations presidential firsts in person. I saw Presidential Candidates Senator Barack Obama and Senator Hillary Clinton when they visited Wilkes-Barre, PA.
After word spread that both Democratic candidates would be in Wilkes-Barre, I decided this was an opportunity that needed to be taken advantage of. Therefore, at 9:30 a.m., I was in line waiting to be admitted into Wilkes University’s Martz Gymnasium to hear Senator Obama and by 1pm I was running cross-town to hear Senator Clinton at nearby King’s College. I planned my day around these two events because by the end of the day, I was determined to know who would be receiving my vote on Tuesday, April 22, the Pennsylvania primary.
Upon Senator Obama’s entrance into the gymnasium, the entire room was on their feet applauding their Presidential hopeful. With all the chanting and cheering, one would have thought we were awaiting a famous music band or celebrity. It is now my understanding that indeed, we were. At that moment I realized I was not just about to see two presidential candidates, but two of the most renowned political celebrities in our nation.
Obama and Clinton both are excellent candidates. After doing much research on their campaigns and their political agenda, I concluded they are more similar than different when it comes to politics. However, as individuals the two could not be more different.
Senator Obama was incredibly articulate. His charisma and oratorical skills enabled him to fully engage the audience—men, women and children alike. The eyes of his constituents smiled upon him as he spoke of issues that he finds important. I found it quite surreal as I looked at the crowds and saw them mesmerized by his person. It was as though they fell in love with the man and not the candidate.
Clinton was also adored by her constituents, but for entirely different reasons. Senator Clinton took the stage with a feminine dignity and grace which was greeted by a very large crowd who all chanted her name but fell silent the minute she took the mic. Unlike Obama who needed to silence his audience, Clinton was listened to the moment she began to speak. Her magnetism was not of charisma or oratorical skills, but of her political agenda. Her passion for what she was talking about was reflected through her word choice. The vocal variety and kinesics of her speech were impressive and allowed the audience to truly see her as a leader.
After seeing both candidates in person, on the same day, I felt that I would have a clear mindset about which one I was going to vote for the Pennsylvania State Primary. But I was mistaken. Although I feel both candidates are more than capable of leading this country, I still have skepticism concerning their plans. Senator Obama, as eloquent as he was, did not explain how he will bring his changes about. And Senator Clinton, as precise as she was in explaining how she will go about her plans, she did not engage her audience with her personality or speech which I believe is a trait our Chief Diplomat needs. Consequently my mind has yet to be decided but at least, I now feel like I am closer to knowing who Senator Barack Obama and who Senator Hillary Clinton are.
Valerie J. Martinez '09
Wilkes University
Communication Studies
After word spread that both Democratic candidates would be in Wilkes-Barre, I decided this was an opportunity that needed to be taken advantage of. Therefore, at 9:30 a.m., I was in line waiting to be admitted into Wilkes University’s Martz Gymnasium to hear Senator Obama and by 1pm I was running cross-town to hear Senator Clinton at nearby King’s College. I planned my day around these two events because by the end of the day, I was determined to know who would be receiving my vote on Tuesday, April 22, the Pennsylvania primary.
Upon Senator Obama’s entrance into the gymnasium, the entire room was on their feet applauding their Presidential hopeful. With all the chanting and cheering, one would have thought we were awaiting a famous music band or celebrity. It is now my understanding that indeed, we were. At that moment I realized I was not just about to see two presidential candidates, but two of the most renowned political celebrities in our nation.
Obama and Clinton both are excellent candidates. After doing much research on their campaigns and their political agenda, I concluded they are more similar than different when it comes to politics. However, as individuals the two could not be more different.
Senator Obama was incredibly articulate. His charisma and oratorical skills enabled him to fully engage the audience—men, women and children alike. The eyes of his constituents smiled upon him as he spoke of issues that he finds important. I found it quite surreal as I looked at the crowds and saw them mesmerized by his person. It was as though they fell in love with the man and not the candidate.
Clinton was also adored by her constituents, but for entirely different reasons. Senator Clinton took the stage with a feminine dignity and grace which was greeted by a very large crowd who all chanted her name but fell silent the minute she took the mic. Unlike Obama who needed to silence his audience, Clinton was listened to the moment she began to speak. Her magnetism was not of charisma or oratorical skills, but of her political agenda. Her passion for what she was talking about was reflected through her word choice. The vocal variety and kinesics of her speech were impressive and allowed the audience to truly see her as a leader.
After seeing both candidates in person, on the same day, I felt that I would have a clear mindset about which one I was going to vote for the Pennsylvania State Primary. But I was mistaken. Although I feel both candidates are more than capable of leading this country, I still have skepticism concerning their plans. Senator Obama, as eloquent as he was, did not explain how he will bring his changes about. And Senator Clinton, as precise as she was in explaining how she will go about her plans, she did not engage her audience with her personality or speech which I believe is a trait our Chief Diplomat needs. Consequently my mind has yet to be decided but at least, I now feel like I am closer to knowing who Senator Barack Obama and who Senator Hillary Clinton are.
Valerie J. Martinez '09
Wilkes University
Communication Studies
A Rock Star Among Mortals
With the line to enter the Marts Center at Wilkes University stretching around the block, it seemed as if Led Zeppelin was having a reunion concert and everyone had a ticket. Unfortunately, even if you had a ticket to see the in-demand personae known as Barack Obama, chances are that you would have been turned away from the entrance if you were not in line by 9:45 AM. I was honored to be one of the many denied entrance to hear Obama’s speech despite my waiting for an hour and a half just to get a door slammed in my face accompanied by rude State Police lingo. Through my struggles in line this past Tuesday (April 1) along with reviewing Obama’s speech on the internet (thanks to poconorecord.com), I have realized that his reputation as a charismatic presidential candidate who constantly reinforces positive “change” for this country has consequently left him with Rock Star status.
Being a rock star has its ups and downs, but when it comes to public appearances you should always have stage presence that gets a crowd pumped. Obama said to 1,500 plus in attendance, “over 10 billion dollars are spent on the war per month, that money could be spent here in Pennsylvania…right here in Wilkes-Barre!” It was nice to hear him try to appeal to this small town, but I question his sincerity in saying money should be spent in Wilkes-Barre. Every lead singer that has come to the Wachovia arena in Wilkes-Barre has started the show by giving a shout out to our town through his or her own particular genre of music. Barack Obama gave his shout out regarding two sensitive issues to people in this town, the war and money. That was a rock star move, one I do not believe he needed to make.
I can only hope he did not try to use the same tactic in other arenas across this country, because there is no way he could please every town he has visited in the past few months if he becomes president. It’s okay to be enthusiastic about revitalizing our falling nation, but a potential leader who has as many people invested in his campaign as he does needs to cut back on the rock star entrances and stick to the politics for the nation. Appealing to a small town does not mean he has to bend reality to seem as if Wilkes-Barre is the only place that matters in this nation. Take it from a life-long resident; I think we know where we stand when it comes to this country’s political agenda.
David Lewis '10
Wilkes University
Communitcation Studies/English
Being a rock star has its ups and downs, but when it comes to public appearances you should always have stage presence that gets a crowd pumped. Obama said to 1,500 plus in attendance, “over 10 billion dollars are spent on the war per month, that money could be spent here in Pennsylvania…right here in Wilkes-Barre!” It was nice to hear him try to appeal to this small town, but I question his sincerity in saying money should be spent in Wilkes-Barre. Every lead singer that has come to the Wachovia arena in Wilkes-Barre has started the show by giving a shout out to our town through his or her own particular genre of music. Barack Obama gave his shout out regarding two sensitive issues to people in this town, the war and money. That was a rock star move, one I do not believe he needed to make.
I can only hope he did not try to use the same tactic in other arenas across this country, because there is no way he could please every town he has visited in the past few months if he becomes president. It’s okay to be enthusiastic about revitalizing our falling nation, but a potential leader who has as many people invested in his campaign as he does needs to cut back on the rock star entrances and stick to the politics for the nation. Appealing to a small town does not mean he has to bend reality to seem as if Wilkes-Barre is the only place that matters in this nation. Take it from a life-long resident; I think we know where we stand when it comes to this country’s political agenda.
David Lewis '10
Wilkes University
Communitcation Studies/English
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Charisma is Important
On April 1st, I had the opportunity to attend a Town Hall Meeting with Senator Barack Obama at Wilkes University. I approached the event with a bit more skepticism than the many people in attendance who broke out into chants of “Yes We Can” or covered their entire bodies with Obama posters (literally). I have not yet decided which democratic candidate I will vote for on April 22nd, but I was looking forward to listening to Obama, who’s speaking abilities I have heard a lot about, in person.When Obama took the stage, I found that his charisma and oration did not disappoint. At one point, I stopped to look around the room and was amused to see many people who were literally sitting on the edge of their seats, smiling hopefully as they listened to him talk. It took me a moment to realize that to my surprise, I was doing the same thing.
I am not saying that Obama’s ability to inspire with his speeches and his talent for connecting with an audience have convinced me that he is the best candidate for the job. There are many actors, rock stars, and other celebrities that have the same talent, but most of them would not be good choices for President. However, my experience at this rally made me think more about the role that this talent should play in choosing a candidate.
Many political purists would say that candidates should win elections because of their policies, experience, and professional record only. I agree that these should be the primary concerns of voters. However, since in my opinion the policies of Obama and Clinton are for the most part similar to each other, I have begun to wonder whether things like charisma and speaking ability are legitimate things to take into consideration. After hearing Obama speak in person, I am inclined to answer yes.
My reasoning for this is that one of the biggest problems that I currently see with politics is the partisan divisiveness in Washington, which prevents many things from getting done. It will take an extraordinary person to be able to bring together the Republicans and the Democrats in the near future. In this case, I believe Obama’s charisma and inspirational abilities will be a huge advantage and something worth taking into consideration when voting.
Christine Zavaskas '09
Wilkes University
Wilkes University
Communication Studies
Saturday, March 29, 2008
What Does Obama Mean By “Change We Can Believe In”?
"To stand up for these Americans, I don’t want to settle for anything less than real change, fundamental change – change we need – change that we can believe in." This quote from Barack Obama shapes his entire campaign. The suggestion, of course, is that the other Democratic primary candidate talking change may not be up to the task, as Obama hinted himself, saying they are "targeting different messages to different audiences." There has been a lot of talk in Obama’s campaign about the politics of hope. This doesn’t mean hoping things come easy. This campaign of change and hope is illustrating that this candidate believes in what could be in this country, he believes in the unseen.
I believe that what this country needs is change for the greater good. I think that Obama has a strong and solid campaign for change but doesn’t always specify what exactly will be changed. So, what specific changes do college students want to see? Some issues I would like to see changed are the war and health care for people ages 22-25 and I’m not the only one who feels this way. A few college students my age have said that they are concerned with how they are going to get coverage for health insurance once they graduate. Laura, a 21 year old senior at Wilkes said; “I think that in order for Obama to make significant changes, he needs to look at what the younger voters want.” I agree, and I do think Obama is making the effort to listen to the young voters. Kyle, another 22 year old student at Wilkes said; “I haven’t really thought about voting until this election. The candidates seem more concerned with what young voters want to see changed and I like that.” I asked this student what he wanted to see changed and he responded with; “getting this war over with and dealing with the bigger problems like health care and national debt, especially since I will be graduating and paying student loans.” These are just a few changes young voters today are concerned with. I think that Obama has a strong belief in helping the younger generation achieve these changes.
Barack Obama believes America needs a president who has the courage to be candid and honest about the challenges we face, even when it’s politically unpopular. Barack Obama speaks of hope and change, saying both require vision and recognize the need for hard work. Obama has positioned himself as an inspiring messenger for a “Change We Can Believe In.” What I believe is that Obama wants to educate the American people about what it will take to make long-term change. Obama has said that change will be tough but doesn't go into why or discuss exactly what this “change” will be and how it will effect the young voters of today. We need for details and will not vote for change on blind faith alone.
Katie Cappelloni '08
Wilkes University
Communication Studies
I believe that what this country needs is change for the greater good. I think that Obama has a strong and solid campaign for change but doesn’t always specify what exactly will be changed. So, what specific changes do college students want to see? Some issues I would like to see changed are the war and health care for people ages 22-25 and I’m not the only one who feels this way. A few college students my age have said that they are concerned with how they are going to get coverage for health insurance once they graduate. Laura, a 21 year old senior at Wilkes said; “I think that in order for Obama to make significant changes, he needs to look at what the younger voters want.” I agree, and I do think Obama is making the effort to listen to the young voters. Kyle, another 22 year old student at Wilkes said; “I haven’t really thought about voting until this election. The candidates seem more concerned with what young voters want to see changed and I like that.” I asked this student what he wanted to see changed and he responded with; “getting this war over with and dealing with the bigger problems like health care and national debt, especially since I will be graduating and paying student loans.” These are just a few changes young voters today are concerned with. I think that Obama has a strong belief in helping the younger generation achieve these changes.
Barack Obama believes America needs a president who has the courage to be candid and honest about the challenges we face, even when it’s politically unpopular. Barack Obama speaks of hope and change, saying both require vision and recognize the need for hard work. Obama has positioned himself as an inspiring messenger for a “Change We Can Believe In.” What I believe is that Obama wants to educate the American people about what it will take to make long-term change. Obama has said that change will be tough but doesn't go into why or discuss exactly what this “change” will be and how it will effect the young voters of today. We need for details and will not vote for change on blind faith alone.
Katie Cappelloni '08
Wilkes University
Communication Studies
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Watching the Presidential Debate on Univision with my “Mama”
On February 21, 2008 CNN and Univision collaborated to bring together the Democratic frontrunners, Senator Obama and Senator Clinton, in a debate from Austin, Texas. This debate was unique because Univision is a Spanish television network, so the debate was translated for Latinos. This seemed like a good opportunity for me to watch a debate with and discover the political views of my grandmother, Horacia Ortiz, who is an immigrant from Baceloneta, Puerto Rico currently residing in New York State.
Politics is a controversial entity. It is a topic that can spark conversation, but also can strike up confrontation. This inherent fact made me uncertain of what would happen while watching the debate with someone from a completely different generation. I am twenty-years-old and currently enrolled in Wilkes University in Pennsylvania. Although it is obvious that our demographics differ drastically, my grandmother and I sat together to watch and discuss the upcoming Presidential election.
It did not take long for my grandmother, who I refer to as Mama, to voice her opinion. In Senator Obama’s opening remarks, he stated that he and Clinton are friends and will continue to be after the debate. Mama saw his comments as merely an act for the Democrats to see he is trying to be the bigger person, when all they have done is bicker with one another. In her words, “Of course, they will always be friends; they’re on the same side.”
For the most part, Mama and I agreed on just about everything in spite of our generational differences. Mama noted that in her opinion, Clinton is more prepared to be President. When Clinton was asked about reuniting Cuba and she responded by saying yes, after they have proven themselves to not be terrorists, Mama was thrilled. “If you don’t reunite them you will never see a positive change, you see she’s smart,” claimed Mama. Later when the issue of immigration came up, Mama was all too happy to hear Clinton’s views on reuniting the people. Not only was Mama ecstatic, but so were the audience members of the debate. Clinton received a standing ovation when she stated, “…that is not the America that I know. That is against American values. And it is -- it is a stark admission of failure by the federal government,” in response to a question Ramos asked pertaining to raids to eliminate illegal immigration. “I agree we all came at one point together, why can’t we live together?” asked Mama. She then added, “Watch Obama disagree.”
After several minutes, I asked Mama why she prefers Clinton over Obama. She said, “I’m familiar with her. She has always represented the underreported classes. I am voting for her all the way, but fear Obama will win. Either way I prefer these candidates over McCain. If he wins there will be no positive change. I am not voting for her because she is a woman, although America always wants a man to lead. Valerie, a man is only as strong as the woman by his side. No matter what Hillary Clinton represents me because she’s my Senator.”
What can I say? I’m my grandmother’s granddaughter because I couldn’t have said it better. This debate was not something I was particularly looking forward to, having seen so many thus far, but watching it with Mama made it different. It made it real and brought it closer to home than ever before. Age really is just a number because the heart is the reflection of your life. Consequently, we are closer in “political age” than one might have thought and together our hearts are aligned for Clinton.
Valerie Martinez '09
Wilkes University
Communication Studies
Politics is a controversial entity. It is a topic that can spark conversation, but also can strike up confrontation. This inherent fact made me uncertain of what would happen while watching the debate with someone from a completely different generation. I am twenty-years-old and currently enrolled in Wilkes University in Pennsylvania. Although it is obvious that our demographics differ drastically, my grandmother and I sat together to watch and discuss the upcoming Presidential election.
It did not take long for my grandmother, who I refer to as Mama, to voice her opinion. In Senator Obama’s opening remarks, he stated that he and Clinton are friends and will continue to be after the debate. Mama saw his comments as merely an act for the Democrats to see he is trying to be the bigger person, when all they have done is bicker with one another. In her words, “Of course, they will always be friends; they’re on the same side.”
For the most part, Mama and I agreed on just about everything in spite of our generational differences. Mama noted that in her opinion, Clinton is more prepared to be President. When Clinton was asked about reuniting Cuba and she responded by saying yes, after they have proven themselves to not be terrorists, Mama was thrilled. “If you don’t reunite them you will never see a positive change, you see she’s smart,” claimed Mama. Later when the issue of immigration came up, Mama was all too happy to hear Clinton’s views on reuniting the people. Not only was Mama ecstatic, but so were the audience members of the debate. Clinton received a standing ovation when she stated, “…that is not the America that I know. That is against American values. And it is -- it is a stark admission of failure by the federal government,” in response to a question Ramos asked pertaining to raids to eliminate illegal immigration. “I agree we all came at one point together, why can’t we live together?” asked Mama. She then added, “Watch Obama disagree.”
After several minutes, I asked Mama why she prefers Clinton over Obama. She said, “I’m familiar with her. She has always represented the underreported classes. I am voting for her all the way, but fear Obama will win. Either way I prefer these candidates over McCain. If he wins there will be no positive change. I am not voting for her because she is a woman, although America always wants a man to lead. Valerie, a man is only as strong as the woman by his side. No matter what Hillary Clinton represents me because she’s my Senator.”
What can I say? I’m my grandmother’s granddaughter because I couldn’t have said it better. This debate was not something I was particularly looking forward to, having seen so many thus far, but watching it with Mama made it different. It made it real and brought it closer to home than ever before. Age really is just a number because the heart is the reflection of your life. Consequently, we are closer in “political age” than one might have thought and together our hearts are aligned for Clinton.
Valerie Martinez '09
Wilkes University
Communication Studies
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Former President Bill Clinton Did Not Disappoint in Wilkes-Barre
I want to make my personal position clear. As a product of the early 80’s, a child of the early 90’s, and an avid Hillary supporter it only seemed logical that I visit my old alma matter, Coughlin High School, to hear the campaign speech of the greatest president of my lifespan, Bill Clinton. Sure it was rainy and cold and the line seemed to take hours to move inches but in my opinion it was well worth the wait.
While I was in line for two hours, it only seemed natural to speak to my elders and get their opinions on the election and why they were braving the cold and rainy conditions. I got more than I bargained for when I struck up a conversation with an older woman named Margo. She did not think that in her lifetime she would ever see a presidential race like this one. “A black or a woman, nah it would never happen; it‘s a great time to be alive,” she said. It was just a simple surface conversation until I asked her why she was there. In that instant our surface banter became an all-out political discussion. My intention was never to use her in this blog, but to simply pass the time. However, without her this experience wouldn’t have been quite as amusing or as informative. Margo said, “I voted for a Clinton in 92 and again in 96 and I am honored to vote for another Clinton in 2008. Race or sex has nothing to do with my decision. She‘s a good woman with great ideas.”
We are two women from two very different generations but I stand by her words. It’s nice to find common ground between generations when at times the gap seems too large to close. We may not have the same reasoning behind our decisions, but I am also honored to vote for a Clinton on April 22nd and with any luck again in November.
As the line started moving and the conversation dissipated I couldn’t help getting butterflies in my stomach. By the time I finally reached the gymnasium, that very same one I used to run laps around just a few years ago, I became filled with a child-like excitement. My father was an intense Clinton supporter in the 90’s and I guess he handed the torch down to me. I’ve been hearing for years what an amazing speaker he was, and the chance to hear him in person was something I just couldn’t wait to experience.
Once we were seated it became a spectacle. There was music blaring and people everywhere. If I didn’t know any better I would have thought I was walking into a concert. Plain and simple, it was crazy.
He arrived a half-hour late, but his speech did not disappoint. He touched on every issue for every age range. He talked about creating more energy efficient cars and making them more affordable for the masses. He spoke about health care and higher education. He really didn’t skimp on anything. He was as charismatic as promised and as charming as he looks on television. In my opinion, he helped sway a few of those undecideds to Hillary supporters with just a few words. My favorite line of the entire speech is when he was responding to remarks made by Barrack Obama about the Clinton era 90’s. Clinton said, “What didn’t you like about the 90’s, was it the peace or was it the prosperity?” The crowd went into an uproar, whether you like the man or not, he can make a speech. I am so glad I had the honor of attending this event. The YouTube feed will never replace the feeling of actually being there.
Was it worth standing outside for two hours for? Absolutely. If you weren’t a Hillary supporter before this speech my guess is you were afterwards. My advice to anyone on the fence in this election is to go watch the candidates or their surrogates speak. I promise the feeling of being there won’t disappoint.
Lyndsay Padavan '08
Wilkes University
Communication Studies
While I was in line for two hours, it only seemed natural to speak to my elders and get their opinions on the election and why they were braving the cold and rainy conditions. I got more than I bargained for when I struck up a conversation with an older woman named Margo. She did not think that in her lifetime she would ever see a presidential race like this one. “A black or a woman, nah it would never happen; it‘s a great time to be alive,” she said. It was just a simple surface conversation until I asked her why she was there. In that instant our surface banter became an all-out political discussion. My intention was never to use her in this blog, but to simply pass the time. However, without her this experience wouldn’t have been quite as amusing or as informative. Margo said, “I voted for a Clinton in 92 and again in 96 and I am honored to vote for another Clinton in 2008. Race or sex has nothing to do with my decision. She‘s a good woman with great ideas.”
We are two women from two very different generations but I stand by her words. It’s nice to find common ground between generations when at times the gap seems too large to close. We may not have the same reasoning behind our decisions, but I am also honored to vote for a Clinton on April 22nd and with any luck again in November.
As the line started moving and the conversation dissipated I couldn’t help getting butterflies in my stomach. By the time I finally reached the gymnasium, that very same one I used to run laps around just a few years ago, I became filled with a child-like excitement. My father was an intense Clinton supporter in the 90’s and I guess he handed the torch down to me. I’ve been hearing for years what an amazing speaker he was, and the chance to hear him in person was something I just couldn’t wait to experience.
Once we were seated it became a spectacle. There was music blaring and people everywhere. If I didn’t know any better I would have thought I was walking into a concert. Plain and simple, it was crazy.
He arrived a half-hour late, but his speech did not disappoint. He touched on every issue for every age range. He talked about creating more energy efficient cars and making them more affordable for the masses. He spoke about health care and higher education. He really didn’t skimp on anything. He was as charismatic as promised and as charming as he looks on television. In my opinion, he helped sway a few of those undecideds to Hillary supporters with just a few words. My favorite line of the entire speech is when he was responding to remarks made by Barrack Obama about the Clinton era 90’s. Clinton said, “What didn’t you like about the 90’s, was it the peace or was it the prosperity?” The crowd went into an uproar, whether you like the man or not, he can make a speech. I am so glad I had the honor of attending this event. The YouTube feed will never replace the feeling of actually being there.
Was it worth standing outside for two hours for? Absolutely. If you weren’t a Hillary supporter before this speech my guess is you were afterwards. My advice to anyone on the fence in this election is to go watch the candidates or their surrogates speak. I promise the feeling of being there won’t disappoint.
Lyndsay Padavan '08
Wilkes University
Communication Studies
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