Obama, Attracts Massive Media Attention

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Photo by Daniel Plassmann Politics A quintessential niche for journalists A campaign with two major presidential candidates, Sen. John McCain and Sen. Barack Obama, attracts massive media attention. Others — among them: Cynthia McKinney, Green Party; Chuck Baldwin, Constitution Party; Bob Barr, Libertarian Party; and Ralph Nader, independent — also make their voices heard. In addition, some states have senatorial and gubernatorial contests, and all 435 districts have elections for the United States House of Representatives. For journalists, elections translate to endless opportunities. Value them. Develop them. Model them. The opportunity repeats every four years — how perfect for every high-school newspaper and yearbook. The election pattern guarantees every teenager a chance to inspect the political process. One vs. One — that is the clear prototype, as seen in the Democratic presidential primary, especially when the race narrowed to Sen. Hillary Clinton vs. Sen. Barack Obama. As coverage of the prototype illustrates, enterprise of both reporters and photographers is essential to present readers/viewers the coverage they deserve. The best preparation is to let both pros and peers, from throughout the United States, instruct students via their experiences. Help the staff discover the importance of tenacity, determination, enthusiasm and involvement — personal qualities that depend neither on the size of the high school nor on the budget of the publication. Every high- school reporter and photographer has an equal opportunity to initiate careful planning to produce mind-challenging results. Vote for teenagers. Elect coverage and informed citizens. Uphold accuracy and fairness. Participate in democracy as part of the historic Fourth Estate. —Howard Spanogle

10 • Communication: Journalism Education Today Fall 2008 With Sen. Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. Tenacity Ina Herlihy of San Francisco shares her how-to, which has already has taken her miles during her freshman and sophomore years. What’s ahead for her? “Great expectations,” says her adviser Tracy Anne Sena.

ttending the activities surrounding the lens around my neck so I went right up to inauguration of Speaker of the House the woman in charge and politely asked for ANancy Pelosi in January 2007 with credentials, showing her a copy of my press teachers and classmates was my first time tak- badge from Pelosi’s inauguration to verify my ing photographs with the professional press. credibility. With credentials hanging around our necks, She took me to her boss to ask permis- the pros took fellow photographer Rena Hunt sion, who ultimately said something along the and me under their wings in the press area lines of, “Oh, you’re so cute, of course.” I was within minutes of joining them, graciously the youngest member of the press that day by offering to let us try out some of their own decades, and yet I did not let myself become lenses on our cameras. intimidated. Stepping outside the press ropes, I found I took a spot on the floor between two myself interviewing Sen. Barbara Mikulski, chairs — a spot too small for anyone else — D-Md. I handed her a prewritten thank you and positioned myself looking dead center at card with my e-mail address, phone and fax the stage. numbers and school address. A few weeks later, At the end of my freshmen year, my journal- I received a letter from her with researched info ism teacher gave me a stack of business cards. to back up what she had been telling me dur- I always have some in my possession because ing our conversation. I am only given a moment’s notice for some of Attending the events in Washington, D.C., the events I have attended, such as when I met made me realize politicians are really the same former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright as we are so I grew in confidence and my ambi- the first time. tion was awakened. As candidates entered the When I met Obama, I was walking around presidential race during the following months, New York City with my family when I noticed I submitted my e-mail address and cell phone multiple news vans and heavy security sur- number to their campaigns to get in the loop rounding a building. I went up to a secu- with their events. After bookmarking their rity guard to inquire about the event and then Web sites, I visited them daily to track travel asked for a press pass at the press stand while itineraries, rallies and events. making small talk with the woman in charge. When I learned about Illinois Sen. Barack She said she was letting me through because I Obama’s Democratic rally in Oakland, Calif., had the “sheer guts” to ask. in March 2007, I immediately signed up online At the end of the event I pushed through for a general admission ticket — it didn’t even the crowd. When Obama passed by, I put my cross my mind to request press credentials. hand up with my business card. He took it and Upon arriving, I coincidentally walked by placed it in his pocket, and we conversed for a the press stand while heading to the public few moments. entrance line a few blocks long. I had a long continued on page 12

Fall 2008 Communication: Journalism Education Today • 11 Photo by Ina Herlihy

Photo by Ina Herlihy

continued from page 11 Within minutes someone from Paul’s cam- By a combination of keeping my eyes open paign politely told me I would not be allowed and being in the right place at the right time, on the press platform so I hopped off. As it I have found myself chatting with Speaker turned out, I ended up being closer to Paul Nancy Pelosi at Borders bookstore while we than the press remaining in the designated were both Christmas shopping, photographing area. n presidential hopeful Rudy Giuliani at a Mel’s Drive-In and attending a private, closed press Ina Herlihy, news editor, The Broadview fundraiser for Gov. Mike Huckabee, R-Ark., Convent of the Sacred Heart High School (San where I interviewed him and took pictures. Francisco, Calif.; Tracy Anne Sena, adviser) More deliberately during the past two years, I have photographed or interviewed Sens. Hillary Clinton, D-N.Y.; Diane Feinstein, COMPETE FOR SUCCESS D-Calif. and John Kerry, D-Mass.; Reps. Anna • Set up press privileges before you go out on a Eshoo, D-Calif. and Jackie Spear, D-Calif.; shoot. Call the press office and let them know you Gov. Mitt Romney, R-Mass.; environmentalist want to be on the approved press list. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Warren Buffet, busi- • Find the press table when you arrive. For big events nessman and philanthropist. there will often be a separate press entrance. Smart During the JEA/NSPA convention in move: Ask where the press entrance is when you Philadelphia last year, Rep. Ron Paul was host- call ahead. ing a presidential campaign rally a few blocks away from the hotel so I went to take photo- • Carry ID, preferably government issued, such as a graphs. Upon arriving on location, I could not driver’s license. If you are covering a political can- find a press secretary so I climbed up into the didate, your student ID may not get you in. assigned press area. • Walk carefully and lightly on the press dais or in the press area. Any movement on a platform will dis- turb video cameras — and still photographers will not be too thrilled having their shots disrupted. • Ask pertinent questions. If you are uncertain about the protocol, ask the pros. They will more than likely give you the lay of the land and offer tips. • Arrive ready to work. As friendly as everyone may be, journalists in the press area are “at the office.” Reporters are probably already prewriting their stories or doing other work so they will not welcome excessive interruptions. Avoid moving in and out of your seat. Keep all your belongings together and do not use your cell phone unless it is an emergency.

12 • Communication: Journalism Education Today Fall 2008 Inside The political beat is a valuable prize on metropolitan newspapers. And in a presidential election year, reporters on that beat work overtime to find stories that do more than simply report the sound bites from the latest staged press event. Veteran reporters Rob Christensen of the Raleigh News & Observer and W. Gardner Selby of the Austin American-Statesman reveal their approaches to the political beat.

1. Why would someone want to cover 3. What’s one story that you’ve politics/politicians routinely? covered in the political arena that sticks out in your mind? What makes Christensen: Politics is part of the grand experi- it stand out? ment of free people governing themselves. This is how a free society makes decisions — about which Christensen: There is no one story. Most recently roads to pave, how big an Army we should have, I have covered Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, John Rob Christensen how we should take care of the elderly, how do we Edwards and John McCain. Certainly the career of has been writing about North Carolina pay for medical costs, how do we protect our soci- Jesse Helms has been memorable. In 1984, I was politics as a reporter ety from criminals, how do we educate our young thrown out of the state Republican convention — and a columnist for people. This is the stuff of politics. by resolution — by Helms’ lieutenants. As I was 35 years at The News and Observer. being led out of the Raleigh Civic Center before a Selby: Politicians and/or officeholders essentially cheering crowd, the presiding officer intoned, “The He has contributed control how government spends tax dollars. Some cancer has been surgically removed.” to three books on North Carolina or do so wisely. Journalists would want to cover these Southern politics. In characters if they either care about the beliefs of Selby: As a pup reporter, I was handed the task April, his first solo the characters, their roots and goals, or specifically of attending then-Texas Gov. Bill Clements victory book, The Paradox of Tar Heel Politics: how they’re intending to spend tax dollars and why. party in Austin in November 1982. Slight prob- The Personalities, Sometimes the best stories are told by politicians/ lem: He lost re-election to Mark White. The rou- Elections and Events officeholders — sometimes the best unintentional tine became more interesting because of the loss. that Shaped Modern North Carolina, was jokes too. Politics is the richest provider of unguard- I watched for signs of dismay, anything to make published by the ed moments, even better than professional sports. readers feel like they were in the hotel ballroom University of North with me. To be sure, Clements roared back four Carolina Press. 2. What is the single biggest challenge years later, unseating White, whose own comeback in covering politics/politicians fell short in 1990. Message: Loss is almost always a routinely? better story than victory — or maybe that’s a sign of my own weaknesses. Christensen: Politics has become very profession- alized, especially at the level that I cover, such as 4. Often it seems that politicians president, governor and the U.S. Senate. Candidates have “stock answer” to questions, hire people to create a certain image. And then the and sometimes they simply evade candidates often say as little as possible so as not to questions. How do you get them to W. Gardner Selby, offend any voters. The biggest challenge in political answer the question you’ve asked? chief poilitical reporting is to get beyond the spin and the mask to writer for the Austin American- find out who these people are and what they really Christensen: The best way to get a good answer Statesman, has believe. from politicians is to go into an interview well pre- covered Texas pared. If they provide an answer that is not consis- politics off and on since the early Selby: P/Os, as we call them, aren’t always forth- tent with what they have said in the past, you can 1980s. Before he had coming about what they’re doing or why. It takes point it out. worked as a reporter time (maybe years) to get a handle on when a politi- for the Beaumont Enterprise, Madison cian/officeholder is candid and when they’re not. Selby: By repeating the question, sometimes (Wisc.) Capital reminding the P/Os that they didn’t answer it the Times, Wichita (Kan.) first round. If that doesn’t work, let readers know Eagle Beacon, Dallas Times-Herald, The the question was asked and not answered. To be Houston Post and fair, politicians/officeholders aren’t required to fill San Antonio Express- in the blank on any question. As reporters, though, News. we have the right to let readers know when a continued on page 14

Fall 2008 Communication: Journalism Education Today • 13 continued from page 13 7. This fall the national election dodge appears to have happened. CRUCIAL: Make will impact everyone in the United sure you asked exactly the question you wanted States and, indeed, the world. How answered. A way to check: Take a tape recorder on can students localize this national every interview. Use it. election?

5. Former Speaker of the House Tip Christensen: North Carolina will be in play this O’Neill once said all politics is local. fall for the first time in years so we will have a rare How does this influence how you opportunity to see a lively fall campaign here — cover politics/politicians? with TV ads, campaign offices and the candidates themselves. This has not happened since the 1992 Christensen: Tip O’Neill was right. All politics election between the first President Bush and Bill is local. So we at The News & Observer pay more Clinton. attention to local politicians, such as John Edwards’ presidential run. And we also focus on issues Selby: National issues slap us across the face con- important to the state, such as military bases, hog stantly — latest example: price of gas at the pump. waste, tobacco, etc. Write from what you see right in front of you.

Selby: It’s essential to know a politician’s/office- 8. If you had one piece of advice for holder’s roots and core philosophies/issues. Start students considering being political every project having a sense of these basics so that reporters, what advice would you you can catch signs of those roots in each story you give? write on the P/O at issue. Christensen: If you enjoy politics, there is no bet- 6. Should reporters spend more time ter job. But you can’t approach it like a partisan. You covering issues rather than events must do your best to be fair to both Democrats and or politicians? What are the pros and Republicans. In fact, I do not even vote in elections cons to this approach? that I cover as a way to help maintain my neutrality. But in return you get a front row seat to history. “The well-told story Christensen: The News & Observer has, over the of North Carolina’s 20th-century last 15 years, shifted to far more coverage of issues Selby: Consider working in a political campaign political dynasties so we do few stories about what the candidates say or two. Get a taste of what politics is like from the forged by on the campaign trail. inside. Otherwise, concentrate on understanding patronage, cronyism, the P/Os in your own world, perhaps starting with kickbacks, Selby: Reporters should understand issues and student leaders who will be chasing public offices fraud, character interweave them with stories on events or politi- of all kinds before you know it. Study political his- assassination and the high art of cians/officeholders. Pure issue stories go unread, I tory, the men and women who have guided the stealing elections suspect, partly because the authors bore themselves planet. If it bores you, consider another profession. honorably…. writing them. I sense that personality-type profiles Ultimately, no matter what your assigned beat, poli- Christensen succeeds where get read more, but there’s no excuse for such a story tics runs through it. n most political lacking rich issue references. NOTE: It takes time to historians fail; he learn issues. Allow yourself the opportunity. makes the story interesting…. A must-read for all Choctaw High School, Ft. Walton Beach, Fla. (Linda Evanchyk, adviser) 13 who value insight Smoke Signals, into the realities of LOCALNEWS winning campaigns 2.14.08 and governing in a Once he lowers taxes, his plan will As his huge slogan covered campaign make it much harder for them to be democracy.” RV rolled in the anticipaion of the crowd raised. ency and the ending of illegal immigra- LIke many of his fellow republicans Republicans campaigndimisnished on and excitementthe took itsGulf Coast tion. he also supports energy diversity and John N. Davis, The BY AMANDA SULLIVAN “Running America takes leadership place. Editor-in-Cheif McCain, like Giuliani addressed his independence, as well as closing the and if I can do it for New York I can do News and Observer position on the War in Iraq. Having a boarder to illegal immigrants. Some say that the Panhandle of it for our country.” On Tues., Jan. 22, a large crowd of military background creates a competent Florida is what won President Bush the local John McCain supporters gathered image for McCain. He has knowledge White House, it seems that some repub- at the Emerald Coast Conference Center. and insight that none of the other presi- lican candidates are taking that into dential candidates have. He fully intends consideration as they haul their entire on continuing the war and eventually campiagns down south. emerge sucessful. Inorder to be sucessful Rudy Guiliani, former mayor of New the size of our military needs to be York, was the first campaigner on the increased as well as the size and compe- scene. He made his from Pensacola to tency of the Iraq government. South Florida, stopping in at Begal Congress, over the past eight to ten Heads in Pensacola, Magnolia Grill in years, has increased the amount of ear- Fort Walton Beach, and The Doughnut marks that are placed on appropriation Hole in Destin. bills. "Earmarked dollars have doubled He stressedhis pro-War in Iraq posi- just since 2000, and more than tripled in tion, which gained him a great amount the last 10 years. This explosion in ear- of support in our militarily dominated marks led one lobbyist to deride the community His goal is to keep America appropriations committees as favor fac- Used by paid permission of on the offense against the Islamic tories. The time for us to fix this broken mctcampus.com/TribuneMediaServices Terrorist War. America should be pre- process is long overdue." Senator John McCain filled the pared for anything and in order to do Kendall Carter/SmokeSignals McCain’s policy on taxes are clear and Emerald Coast Conference Center, this, the size of our military needs to be straightforward, “they should be low, along with many other venues when Former Mayor of New York Rudy increased. simple, and fair.” He has plans to greatly he campaigned in Florida. 14 • Communication: Journalism EducationHe T alsooday promoted his one page tax Giuliani visited the Magnolia Grill. cut taxes for the middle class by elimi- Fall 2008 form. His tax plan along with the tax There he discussed many important nating the Alternative Minimum Tax. cuts he proposed enable citizens to file issues, including his one page tax their taxes on a single page. form. Giuliani also supports energy depend- Manheim Township High School

Lancaster, PA M Hi-LiteMonday, March 31, 2008 T Vol. 72 Issue 07 Clinton makes her mark on Millersville inView, Jan. 22, 2008 Presidential candidate makes stop in Lancaster, MTHS may be location for future visit as to her political affiliations, istration form. “We’re not just Manheim Township High School, Lancaster, Pa. (Marty Pflieger, adviser) Rachel Hoh '09 Shen asserted that hearing kids. We’re growing up.” Hempstead gets involved with the caucuses Editor-in-Chief Clinton speak in person helped According to senior Brent to properly shape her beliefs. Morel, there is a multitude of , Feb. 29, 2008 The Equestrian 0B?!KO?MNLC;H It has been 16 years since “Before I went to Temple factors contributing to teens’ a democratic presidential can- to see Hillary, I was kind of on increasing interest. “The Iraq didate has visited Lancaster the fence about her,” said Shen, war is the primary reason which Hempstead High School, Dubuque, Iowa (Laura Stanner, adviser) County. This dry spell was bro- over email, “but then after see- has attracted young people,” "?<    ken March 18, when Senator ing and hearing her speak at said Morel. Other factors draw- Hillary Clinton spoke to an Temple [in Philadelphia], I was ing young people’s attention enthusiastic crowd of 3,000 at no longer on the fence. These are Obama who is a particularly Millersville University. events were really informative.” young candidate and ?HN?LMJL?;> the rising This visit marks just one of Senior Erin Poplar was simi- concerns with the economy, he the many campaign stops that larly minded prior to attend- said. “Those factors culminate  Clinton has taken in Keystone ing the Millersville rally with to make interest in the political state in preparation for the high-- Shen. process,” said Morel. ly contested democratic primaier “I was surprised at how Morel is a prime example of- Palm and Mitt Romeny take a picture ry election on April 22. Earl much I agreed with what she young people’s growing inter - Expinc cuses this month, Clinton skirted the - says,” said Poplar, over email. est and involvement in the elec Iowa Caucus Maury Palm By Ethan Rome Teachers’ involvement in the cau “I’m still undecided about who tion. Morel has been working me teachers becoming Lancaster area with appear continued, with so ances in Pittsburgh, Scranton, I’m going to vote for in the pri- with PoliticalPhoto Club by andCarly talking Piersol more active. t more haos, yelling, and… musical chairs? “This year I took a bi Philadelphia, and Harrisburg. mary, but it made my decision with Pulkrabek to organize a ses,” - C of an active role in the caucu Senior Connie Shen attend harder because before hearing distribution of voter registraPalm gets -Hilary Clinton’s autograph and picture Maury Palm, World Culturess I a rally at Millersville University This must be the Iowa caucuses. ed Clinton rallies both in her, I was definitely leaning ively participated, followed, or teacher, said. “Other year Hillary waves to her supporters during pstead students and teachers act eeting Philadelphia and Millersville. This year numerous Hem e presidential nominations, everheir basically observed.” tensive amount of caucusing and m more CANDIDATES on pg. 14 While Palm does an ex Although initially uncertain volunteered in several campaigns.ed nationally as the first step towardged th their system of publicizing t as fun. r Mike Huckabee, I The Iowa caucus is view since the Democrats chanrocess in the 1970’s. They made many candidates, he h Chuck Norris was in town fo e toughest y “When I heard that o the Mississippi Mug and challenge th Dennis Schroeder candidates, then voting p with these new changes the caucus ; the one thing where I could Registration for a better nation Teacher Dennis thought about going down t joked. That was the changes to this system, and o January 24. Republicans soon et in a thumb wrestling match . Schroeder has guy on the plan I would have had a shot,” Palm Will grads get the grade? date of May 20 was changed t o Palm went to see McCain instead a Voters is a nationwide, non- participated in the g their caucuses to thedidates same dubbed day. the possibly beat him. I think Local organization promotes young voter turn out for PA primar “It’s like musical followed suit, changin same night McCain was in town, s eed to be more involved. He offered extr partisan organization dedicated caucuses since Palm feels students n Mandatory exit exams considered for MTHS after April 22 and could not they started in After that, the media andthe nation.”other can ay register, Pulkrabek said not to to helping the public become the 70’s. Iowa caucuses as the “first in ome, but when credit for students whoell as “After listening, Elise Bowder '08 chairs spliced with went to caucus, as w more people. The caucuses can be confusing for s . - Taylor Bundy • Features Editor worry. “The League of Women more involved in politics and mple. Republicans and mock caucuses in his class nnsylvania. The Staff Writer This year’s caucus held farumber, 289, this working, and meet broken down it’s quite si He thinks teachers should In the near future, high school graduation requirements m - Voters is returning in the fall encourage voting. For the past“There was a very large nit took awhile to math and angry heir own Democrats each have t take a little class time to become more standardized andently unified affirmed across requirements Pe that would With the up-and-com for students to register for the 60 years, the LWV hasmade been it seem really chaotic, and ses. ing with him, I math, English, eder said. processes. The talk about the caucu get organized,” Schrocuses instead of primaries, so shouting.” Palm saw almost State Board of Education rec ing primary and a compelling general election or you can reg- aiding in voter registration Iowa has cau really wanted to ired on behalf of the voter. Republicans vote all of the candidates enforce all high school students to pass exams in presidential election, a handful ister online at vote411.org,” she drives and distributingthere voter is more -effort requ ersuade, and - Joe Thor either by hand d in 2014, are “At caucuses you can argue, p in the race. Seeing the be a delegate for social studies and science before commencement. tion’s final of Manheim Township High said. education sheets before elec d., “in primaries you or moving to candidates changed give opinions,” Schroeder sai some of his views. The requirements, which would be implemente School students are choosing Pulkrabek handed out a tions, Pulkrabek said.just cast a vote.” e then counted. In “It really Barack Obama.” expected to face review prior to the State Board of Educa to take an active role in politics mere 20 registration forms at When asked why there has a specified area or room. The votesdidate ar they chose one by affirmed what I had -Maury Palm Educators have been dis- vote. - making sure their voices are Township. “It’s a reality check been an overwhelming interest precincts that only elect one can already believed or ttle more lengthy. it opened my eyes in is person’s views. It was both d.a “I think it [the policy] will pass [review]. majority. sistant Superintendent for.” Curriculum heard by registering to vote. that we need to find a better of young voters in this year’s Palm takes a photo with John McCain and gets his autograp The Democratic process is a li t 15 percent of the showing me that I really likee thcandidates speaking,” Palm sai cussing it for a while,” said As presidential election, Pulkrabek positive and negative for th andidates is a way to truly On Thursday, February - way [to distribute them],” she h Democratic candidates must have at timateleas to be president) Palm believes meeting the c John Riegel. “…I don’t think it is a new concept exam for us would be the they represent. 27, Kaye Pulkrabek, a mem said. “An astonishing 70,000 said “because it’s an exciting precinct to be deemed viable (or legi s non-viable it can get to know them and what meeting with him, thatI h are “a series of tests “After listening , working, and In Pennsylvania, this prospective exit ber of the League of Women people in Lancaster County are election. For the first time, in the county precincts. If the group i o nowhere and not be or Barack Obama.” Palm feelsd ask ording to a Jan. 17 either join another to become viable,unted g as undecided. Several really wanted to be a delagate f Graduation Competency Assessments, whic Voters, was at the high school not registered to vote. [The a woman is running and an he first time andidates, he is able to talk Palm to them thinks an are not only is it fun to see the c that will be given throughout high school…” acc League of Women Voters is] African American is running.” counted, or join a group to be co Palm and Obama take a picture in 2004 when Obama ll do something regarding topics algebra one, distributing registration forms students took part in the caucus experiencee for for president t the them if they plan to, or wi Department of Education press release. visited Galena. llower for some time now, - to interested students. “The working really hard to reach Pulkrabek also credited the this year as many seniors prepareion. to Information vot courtesy of important. e was running for xams [composition and lit Palm has been a Barack following Obama fohis career since h Students would be required to pass two math exams [ goal [of the League of Women those people,” according to Internet for making teens more first time in the upcoming elect ld history or aucus.html “I have actually been algebra two or geometry], two English e Voters] is get everyone to sign Pulkrabek. politically aware, thus more Joe Thor cuses as well. Joeiowacaucus.org/iac senator in 2004.” times that he actually received an ry] in order to earn Palm has met Obama so many erature], one social studies exam [American history, wor up when they turn 18,” said Among the 20 or so stu- - involved. Students are involved in the cau self. “It’s sort of like sible inauguration speech. see the Thor, 12, thoroughly enjoyed him gry shouting, invitation to Obama’s pos ing him if he won, could I come to civics] and one science exam [biology or chemist dents who obtained registra “We want to make our “It started with me ask er when he was back, the Pulkrabek. musical chairs spliced with math and an e said yes. Well a few weeks lat o me the discussion was said. His first time at the caucuses waiting for a high school diploma. In Pennsylvania, you must tion forms was senior James own voice,” said senior Danny good times,” Thor ore involved. inauguration and h e up again and unbeknownst t Riegel. In the only made him m iden, which inauguration topic cam to win, I’ll be patiently “The goal is that when a student gets a diploma, he or she Hayden who filled out a reg- Thor caucused for Joe B Secretary Gerald be 18 by April 22 to vote in - Lundquist. “It’s important to be den ‘posse’ was videotaped. So if he does happen will show proficiency in all academic areas,” said cheating our the primary and must regis involved in politics, especially started very small. “My Bi allied enough Department of Education press release, Education more REGISTRATION on pg. 5 barely viable at first and we ro become Alex Butzier e ter by March 24, according this election,” he said. Joe Biden takes a picture with Palm from Dodd and Richardson t Some feel the process of th L. Zanhorchak referenced “empty” diplomas that are “ ere are nfusing the high to Pulkrabek, but for those The League of Women ,” Thor said. caucuses is ridiculous. “We children and our commonwealth.” students who are turning 18 viable, it was a great feeling en’t as involved as they could be. “Th kept moving from room to d. Thor believes studentseally ar interested in politics.” eally room,” Alex Butzier 11, sai ts who are involved are r The focus of mandatory exit examsmore would GRAD be TESTING i on pg. 13 some students that aren’t r y much involved “Not to mention there were On the other hand, Thorion thatalso is studen politically active is ver ere are a number While working at an event in Elkader, Palm meets a farmer who also follows Obama, and way too many people for active. “The student populat tudents want to get involved th olitical has dressed up his llama the fire code.” at school, such as the P Butzier caucused in every aspect of politics.”ions If s as nothing of clubs and organizat for Barack Obama, and there w Discourse Society. to sway his decision. ent out to Sydney La Rue “Representatives w ’t go, nformative, can be very Liz Niemer persuade others to join us. I didn plicated hosen for us,” The caucuses, though i One reason for lack of the student effect the representatives were c confusing. “They made it more no com need to sit involvement may come from Butzier said. than it had to be. There was the Romney it has on the students. Hi-Lite Goes Green! to s,” for a while for an hour and listen to “We stood in a roomld guy talk,” Liz support give thanks to his supporter and listened to some o Sydney La Rue 12, said. Turn to Features pages 8 to 12 Niemer 11, said. ama, La Rue feels that the caucusesple and not Niemer caucused foras “herdedOb provide opinions from real peo and felt that everyone w uses ved. “There check out what eco-events are shaping our world like sheep.” Niemer felt formationthe cauc just automated phone calls. could definitely be more involte know they did not give any new in She believes that studentseniors who will be able to vo Verna Bice/Acclaim Images. udy about her candidate. and keep your eyes peeled throughout the issue could be more [students],a Ruenot allsaid. s can vote at caucuses,” L ue’s vote at all, who caucused for R Background photo reprinted courtesy of The caucuses did not sway La R thing more to be learned. Palm meets Kevin Bacon while at a presidential event for more environmentally conscious content! Giuliani. She felt there was no Determination The Manheim Township High School newspaper Hi-Lite has been involved in cover- ing the campaigns of U. S. Sens. Hillary Clinton and Barak Obama. Because of the importance of the Pennsylvania primary, both Clinton and Obama held rallies in Lancaster County, where our school is located. My co-editor-in-chief and top pho- tographer entered through the press entrance and received front-row access to the Clinton rally at Millersville University of Pennsylvania.

Hi-Lite staff — Ayon Oluleye, Carly bama paid two visits to Lancaster, received a notice stating that we would receive Piersol, Molly Stieber, Taylor Bundy one to Thaddeus Stevens College an e-mail if the rally would not be able to and Wes Geisenberger — report of Technology and the other to the accommodate us as press. Sure enough, the from the Barack Obama campaign O Lancaster Train Station. Five Hi-Lite staff mem- day of the rally my editors and I bypassed the rally at Thaddeus Stevens College of Technoloy in Lancaster March 31. bers — sports editor, features editor, 1,800 people in line and went through the top photographer, a staff writer and press entrance. We were asked to show our I — obtained press access to the identification and press credentials. Obama rally at Thaddeus Stevens. None of us had appropriate press creden- We had gone to the Obama Web tials except for high-school identification, but site to apply for press access. The we were all able to talk our way in and, with questions were clearly meant for our names on the press list because we had large press organizations and pub- applied on the Web site, we were not denied. lications like news stations and Once we entered it was easy to see we were the professional newspapers. We were only high-school newspaper there. n asked if we needed riser space and how many cameras we would be Molly Stieber, editor-in-chief, Hi-Lite bringing. Manheim Township High School, Lancaster, Pa. Soon after submitting the application, we (Marty Pflieger, adviser)

Fall 2008 Communication: Journalism Education Today • 15 Tuesday November 20, 2007 IDWAY linois 60637 U-HIGH Mhool 1362 East 59th Street, Chicago, Il Volume 83, Number 3 University High Sc U-Highers travel

to Iowa for Obamaimportant to them,” Dan said. “It is also important that we tell them what Iowa could hold key is important to us, to show them why we are spending the day canvassing to Presidency bid for Barack. Once we’ve talked to By Graham Salinger people we write down their response on a piece of paper, which we give to Associate Editor one of the Iowa offices. n navy blue “Students for Barack “If they support Hillary Clinton it is Obama” t-shirts, six U-Highers good to know because then we won’t along with 37 students from other spend any more time on them. If they I support Obama it is good to know schools in Illinois traveled to Iowa because then we know to knock on Photo by Jordan Nicholas City Saturday, November 3, by bus to their door on caucus night and get campaign for Senator Obama. them to caucus. The January 3 caucuses represent “If they are undecided we know to the first step in selection of delegates spend more time finding out what to the 2008 Democratic Convention. is important to them so that the The four-hour bus ride to Iowa City, campaign can send them information. beginning at 6:30 a.m., included “Iowa is the first Presidential contest political discussion and a self-designed in the country. It is also a caucus trivia game by students on the bus state, so instead of going into a voting about Senator Obama. booth, voters meet for about two hours For Senior Dan Hornung, state of on a cold January night to vote on a Illinois high school director for Barack candidate. As we move closer and Obama, making his fourth trip to Iowa closer to January 3, people will pay City, the ride provided an opportunity (continues on page 13) to calm the nerves of students making Photos courtesy their first day trip to Iowa City and of to explain how to go door to door Amy recruiting Obama supporters to attend Solomon a caucus for him. and Bianca Among U-Highers making their first Harris trip were Sophomores Keira Kennedy and Amelia Acosta and Seniors Enthusiasm Victoria Rogers and Bianca Harris . Also joining them was Sophomore Amy Solomon, making her second trip. ntial After receiving press credentials for a Hillary Clinton rally in nearby Scranton, Pa. on After being split into groups, students - epare to cam canvassed the Iowa City neighborhood Victoria Rogers and Dan Hornung walk to find the nextfrom pote Iowa field designated by maps they received from six other Obama supporter; Keira Kennedy and Amy Solomonn doors; pr on the bus, March 10, reporter Jeff Shucosky and photographer Jordan Nicholas from Wyoming the Chicago Obama Headquarters. mber 3, for paign; Keira Amelia Acosta and Keira hear directions As an experienced canvasser, Dan SIX U-HIGHERS along with students from a Cau- organizers; Victoria and Dan get ready to knock o Dan visits with other campaigners. says he plans to continue to canvass schools in Illinois traveled to Iowa City, Nove in Iowa during winter break. a day of campaigning towards the January 3 Iow Valley West High School, Plymouth, Pa. covered the candidate’s speech in the town “The most important thing for us to cuses. From left top: at do is to engage voters and see what is take the 151, which is a much slower bus, taking where her father is buried. There Clinton spoke about her local roots during a rally least another half an hour for me to get home. I Public transportationscheduled cuts to takewouldn’t effect January 6, have affect parents most“If that didn’t U-Higherswork, I could always take the L, By David McAlpine and teenagers across the city worried about longer but that would involve a lot more walking than Editor-in-Chief travel times and rerouting through dangerous already do. I take the same routes on weekends, at Scranton High School. neighborhoods. U-Highers, however, don’t have her too, to soccer, art classes and violin, so it’d be really Though the first in a series of route cuts passed much to worry about it, since hardly any use the CTA inconvenient if they got rid of my routes. I’d rat with no consequences, it’s not over yet. as a primary mode of transportation. pay more and have all the routes available than to Proposed Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) cuts Most U-Highers who use public transportation to get downtown and to have to reroute.” the North Side use the former Illinois Senior Melissa Gracia, who lives in Pilsen, south of Central Electric branch of Metra. downtown, relies on two CTA buses to get to school overing Hillary Clinton’s visit to Times Leader) to have their works published With service from 55th, 56th, 57th daily. Though some of the routes she takes were and 59th street stations to the South slated for elimination on November 4, none of them Loop, Millenium Park and Loop L made the list for January 6. Scranton High School gave me a in the next day’s edition. They were instructed stops, the train is a popular choice for “I take the 60 Blue Island and the 2 Hyde Park U-Highers. Express to school, then the 6 Jackson Park Express Catching a ride with her mother most and 60 back home,” Melissa explained. “I’m first-hand experience in the world to provide 10 inches with a perspective about mornings, Sophomore Julia Baird extremely dependant on the CTA and I’m really takes a bus from a Metra stop to her lucky that, now, none of my regular routes are “ Lakeview home. The January cuts scheduled to be cut. threaten both bus routes she counts “I have no idea what I would do without the CTA. of professional journalism,” Shucosky said. “I what young people thought of the rally. Both It already takes me an hour-and-a-half to get to c on. “I’m quite dependant on the CTA,” school, so to reroute would be absolutely terrible. I Julia said. “I take either the 145 or wouldn’t mind paying a little more to stop the cuts, was floored by the number of major media students were excited to work with the short the 146 Michigan Avenue express but as long as my routes are still in operation, I’m buses from the Metra up north. happy.” Photo by Ramzi Dreessen outlets attending the rally in what I always deadline. The event ended about 6 p.m., and or “If those were to get cut, I’d have to BUYING A TICKET on the X28 Stony Island Express, Seni Raphi Cuenod is one of few U-Highers who take the CTA. U-High considered to be a small city. Furthermore, I the students had to deliver their work to the Art by Eric LOOKING Art by Cochrane Lauline Tribes INSIDE World in Gough 8-9 HAPPY families, sad was impressed and amazed by the intensity newspaper by 9 p.m. Art by Eric families, close families, Time Cochrane 4 a Warm IS GLOBAL WARMING distant families. U-Highers a real threat? U-Highers tell their own stories. to IS THE LAB lurch certainly think so and of these journalists as they jockeyed for posi- Caught in the mass exodus as they left the 3 SCHOOLS the best can tell you why. Shine school it can be? A self-study begins. Spotlight7 tion to capture the best photo and story they event, Shucosky drafted his article in the car as Jan. 24, 2008 could.” Nicholas weaved his way through traffic. Chatfeatures Nicholas was also impressed with the “The rally itself was exciting, but what was Spotlight Chatfeatures event. even better was arriving home and writing an 6 Jan. 24, 2008 Before voting in the February primary, John McCain “Covering the Hillary rally showed me how article in less than an hour,” Shucosky said. “Ready from day one.” check out the candidatesHillary and Clinton the issues they areJohn McCain debating is a Republican who believes that

“Help make history.” America can create a stable and representative state Rudy Giulani Hillary Clinton has spent her life working in Iraq. National security is also a top priority for real-world politics and real-world journalism “Seeing my byline in the next day’s newspaper this candidate. McCain stands for health care for all “Tested. Ready. Now.” to support women and families, and she has the citizens, and also allowing each individual to have Rudy Giuliani is best known for his effort as experience needed to be President of the United more control over his or her own care. He believes in Barack Obama taxes The Marathon“Stand for change” Begins!the mayor of New York City during the attacks of States. A graduate of Wellesley College, Clinton also tightening the nation’s borders and restricting illegal e work. Being able to fight for a camera posi- that was delivered to thousands of subscribers Mike Huckabee Barack Obama is a strong liberal favoring abortion Sept. 11. He reduced or eliminated over 23 city attended Yale Law School. After graduating from Yale, immigration. McCain also takes great pride in being as a woman’s right; hiring more women and minorities; during his term. If elected president, Giuliani has a list Clinton became an advocate for children and families. an environmentalist. He believes limiting greenhous “Faith. Family. Freedom.” same-sex domestic partnership benefits; and repealing of twelve commitments to the people of the United As president, Clinton wants to strengthen the middle gases, and dependence on foreign supplies can and will Republican Mike Huckabee makes the point of his States, including keeping America on the offense in the tax cuts on the wealthy. Obama opposes privatizing class, end the war in Iraq, and provide affordable and help lead the way in making all nations proactive for a tion was something I’ll never forget,” he said. capped off a perfect experience.” campaign very clear: he wants to show people that the terrorists’ war, cutting taxes, increasing adoptions, and social security; the absolute right to gun ownership; accessible health care for all 47 million American global environment. American Dream is still alive. Huckabee’s plans to improve and the Patriot Act because it harms civil liberties decreasing abortions. He will ensure that the American Citizens. Clinton has what it takes to be the president the education and health care systems give each American (issues2000.org). However, he found common ground community is prepared for terrorist attacks or natural “And to get advice from photographers from Nicholas had a similar reaction. “The morn- equal opportunities. He also would like to implement the with Republicans, accumulating a record of bipartisan disasters. Besides his commitments, he’s a proven leader that the country needs right now; she has the plan Fair Tax, which would eliminate all other federal taxes. success during his tenure as an Illinois Senator of a great city. necessary to complete her goals. He believes that the true strength of the country (barackobama.com). Obama is a supporter of civil rights According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Third parties comes from families, not the military or economy. and equality in voting, education, and the work force. In Alcoholism, each year, approximately 5,000 kids under the age top newspapers from around the world really ing after the rally I awoke to find one of my Huckabee promises to fight to preserve the sanctity of brief, Obama is committed to maximizing the country’s they spend the money on and raise the requirements to be eligible of 21 die from alcohol-related motor crashes, homicides and key part in marriage and put an end to abortions. greatest natural resource: the American people. for the benefits,” sophomore Ben Sammons said. suicides, and from injuries such as burns, falls and drowning. ill patients to use marijuana as a pain-control substance available This issue might directly affect students because the social Routine teen drinkers may also experience issues with behavior, gave me confidence and has given me an upper pictures had been published. It was a great by prescription for conditions such as cancer. security system may be bankrupt by the time they are eligible for fighting, lack of participation, disruption in normal growth and elections “Legalizing marijuana will help medical patients ease the pain retirement benefits. Some find this unfair, while others are less unwanted or unprotected sexual activity. of their illnesses,” senior Tim Meinczinger said. worried about it. “Other countries have a lower drinking age because they Third party candidates, at first What’s at stake But in California, marijuana can be prescribed for simple “I’m not too concerned about it because I don’t need it for have no problems. Here, it will always be a problem,” junior glance, do not seem that important. hand in my journalism class.” feeling,” he said. pains, such as patients with anxiety or backaches. This has led the another forty-four years, so they should be able to figure it out by Hannah Black said. reported by Kristen Felker They rarely, if ever, win the election. DEA to raid many California dispensaries, according to the Dec. then,” junior Derek Burnett said. reported by Michelle Nolan However, third party candidates are “There is no way the whole country is going to make 30 60 Minutes report. essential to the electoral process. Next president must solve problems Many similar laws have been passed in Europe that say The two students did not take any part of Prior to the event, Shucosky had not sacrifices to stop global warming,” senior Richreported Campbell by Sujin said. Chong Iraq War First, third party candidates support marijuana is no more harmful than cigarettes or alcohol. Underage Drinking With over 166,000 troops currently stationed in Iraq and causes and policies that have become Environment “Even though alcohol can impair the mind like marijuana, it The argument of changing the drinking age from 21 years of Global warming is a major political issue this election year. Afghanistan, some Americans are starting to question how an integral part of society. For has limits and expected consequences,” junior Cenk Papilla said. age to 18 years of age remains a continuous issue among political Global warming happens when air pollution traps the sun’s heat involved their military should be. Because of public opinion, war instance, women’s right to vote, social the process for granted. They enjoyed receiving planned to register to vote. He was somewhat Legalizing Medical Marijuana But here in the states, permitting marijuana to be legalized candidates. The United States has the highest drinking age in the and temperature rises. The more pollution there is in the air, the The legalization of marijuana for medical purposes is one of has become an important issue in the presidential election. security, child labor laws and the for medical use has been a battle for many years between world; while in other countries, the drinking age varies from 16-20 higher the temperature rises. the most controversial topics. For decades, the war on drugs has “America has really pulled a ‘Team America’ with the whole creation of a 40-hour work week are politicians, police authority, and citizens. As a result, it’s sure to be years of age. When this happens, it can cause the Arctic to melt and raise Iraq situation,” sophomore Rachel Anders said. “We have really now in place because of the support their press passes — and even being cleared distrustful of the process, but after the rally, he remained a problem and still an important issue today. an important issue in the coming elections. reported by Erin Key “Kids will learn to be more responsible and, if you are old sea levels. According to the December issue of Rolling Stone magazine, isolated ourselves from the rest of the world.” and publicity third parties gave the enough to fight and die for our country, drinking should be legal This disrupts the ocean’s circulation system, affecting the millions of Americans fall victim to dangerous drug habits America has been in the war since October 2001 and there issues. Third parties also are an exact and a right,” junior Brandy Stevens said. have been few signs of stopping. While the war has produced example of democratic freedom, temperature of some countries, making them either coolerwww. everyday. In addition, the National Institute of Drug Abuse Social Security Senior Matt Watt agrees, saying, “Making kids wait until by security. phoned his journalism teacher to say, “This was or warmer. The heat will also cause more storms, droughts, (NIDA) believes marijuana leads to negative effects on the brain, results, including the capture of Saddam Hussan, Americans allowing the common man to not Mismanaged. they are 21 only makes things worse because kids have to sneak illnesses, and more energy usage throughout the planet ( heart and lungs. remain concerned about what should be done in the Middle East only run for office, but to let him g). That is one of many terms often used to describe the current around and do bad things, like driving around drunk and other environmentaldefense.or But the National Institute of Health (NIH) has been or how long we should be there. create his own party. Some active American social security crisis. As one of today’s critical issues, Most of the candidates such as Hilary Clinton and Barack stupid stuff, rather than being legal and acting responsible.” “I think we will be there for quite awhile still,” junior Adam third parties of today are the Reform “Once I cleared security I was given a brief- so exciting. I am definitely going to register to studying marijuana for years because they believe it holds medical many Americans fear the government won’t be able to return the While most students want the law to be lowered, junior Obama want to prevent this from happening. But others, such as compounds. Koenig said. “I don’t think there is an easy way out.” party, the Green party, the Libertarian money that is taken from their income. Hilary Speis thinks differently. “I don’t see why people can’t just use regular medication,” How the future president deals with the current situation party and the Constitution party. Mitt Romney, avoid this subject and talk about other problems to In 1935, Franklin Delano Roosevelt signed a Social Security “The law should stay at age 21 because it’s a good age. You fix. junior Alex Schaper said, “but if there’s no other alternative, I in the Middle East has separated citizens from candidates they Independent parties will not nominate ing and received my press pass. I was given vote. I want to be involved in the process.” n Bill to help Americans who were in debt after the Great are responsible enough to determine whether you can drive or their presidential candidates until this “We’re destroying our ozone layer. That’s what protects us guess its fine.” would usually support while other people are apathetic towards Depression. The bill stated that part of everyone’s income was find alternative ways to get home,” Speis said. from the sun’s harmful rays,” sophomore Sydnie Bianchi said. On the other hand, many policy makers claim that marijuana what their candidate’s stance is. summer. to be withheld by the government and put towards the person’s The main reason why people think the law should remain the reported by Katie Herring “Unless we’re prepared to live in a different world with a is hazardous, often leading to stronger drugs. Drug Enforcement “The candidate’s stance completely has an influence on me.” retirement. Due to the government using that money for same is because students go out and party hard when Friday night permission to go behind the scenes where different habitat, we need to stop the progression of the effect Administration (DEA) studies have shown that users of illegal senior Ally Simon said. “I’m voting for Obama just for his stance government programs, other than social security benefits, and begins. Having “fun” sometimes leads to having regrets that just that global warming is having,” science teacher Cathy Gelnett drugs began with marijuana and it’s labeled a gateway drug, on Iraq. He wants peace and so do I.” reported by Andrew Cogswell the increase of retirees, it seems the government may be short of might change someone’s life forever. said. leading abusers to harder drugs. As a result, authorities fear that cash, leaving some to fear they won’t get their hard-earned money “Drinking makes you make wrong decisions and careless Mike Gravel Other students believe that they should not put funding medical marijuana could fall into the wrong hands and could be other people only dream of going,” Nicholas Leslie Nicholas, adviser, Wyoming Valley West back. mistakes,” senior Preston Aldridge said. “Let the people decide.” towards global warming. taken advantage of. “Raising the taxes seems like a possible solution, but it’s Ron Paul Former Alaska governor Mike Gravel is a radical “I think it’s a waste. The government won’t have enough “It shouldn’t be legalized because people will abuse it,” junior definitely not the best one. The government should limit what liberal who is known for his stance on the legalization money to afford a proper plan for global warming prevention,” Charlie Zeilinski said. “Hope for America.” High School, Plymouth, Pa.\ Dennis Kucinich Ron Paul ran for president as a Libertarian in 1988, of marijuana. He supports regulating hard drugs for said. “For the other journalists, this was no big senior Alex Duletsky said. Nationally, twelve states so far have passed laws for seriously rehabilitation and prevention. Gravel also supports but this is his first time running as a Republican. Paul Even if the government does something to stop global “Strength through peace.” same-sex marriage and abortion. He pledges immediate currently is a US House Representative. Being a great Mitt Romney Dennis Kucinich is one of the candidates vying withdrawal from the Middle East and would have the warming, some people believe that it cannot be stopped. believer in limited federal government, Paul voted for the Democratic nomination. Kucinich is all about troops home within 120 days of his presidency. Gravel deal. But I felt on top of the world.” “True strength for America’s future.” against the Patriot Act and has never voted to increase Mitt Romney, a Republican candidate, commits to helping the average Joe and campaigns for civil, human, believes that global warming is a matter of national John Edwards the power of the executive branch. He also has never and worker’s rights. He wants to create a national health security and plans to do what he can to limit harmful keeping families safe from violent crimes, sexual predators, voted to raise taxes, and has always voted to lower or “Join the campaign to change America” care plan and preserve social security. He wants to gas releases into the air. John Edwards is a self-made man who brings a repeat drunk drivers, and gang violence (National Review abolish federal taxes. Paul opposes the Iraq War, and Before the rally, the students had made Online). As the Massachusetts’s governor, Romney bring tax relief to lower-income families. He has been fresh sense of character to the presidential race. After voted against it. Furthermore, he has pro-life and pro- founded Bain Capital, one of the nation’s most successful a member of the House of Representatives for over 10 graduating from North Carolina State University in family values, and views the Constitution as the highest investment companies, and guided hundreds of years. Kucinich was also a senator, and at 31 years old, he 1974, Edwards earned a law degree in 1977 from the authority of government. companies on successful courses. Romney believes that became the youngest mayor of a major city (Cleveland). University of North Carolina. As a lawyer, Edwards arrangements with a local newspaper (The national security should be strengthened by adding more He has worked as a teacher, consultant, TV analyst, took on powerful interests and stood up for families. 4 South] St. Charles, MO 63304 troops to our military and caring more for the veterans hospital orderly, and author, giving him a variety of Now, he is taking his concept of standing up for middle (DesMoinesRegister.com). Romney wants to reform the perspectives on issues. class America into the presidency. His dream is to education system so young people can compete for good Francis Howell High School [7001 Highway 9 build one America by standing up for regular families, paying jobs. Voting for Mitt Romney means, living in an restoring America’s leadership role in the world, and America that is safe, prospers, and is free. investing in the future. South] St. Charles, MO 63304

Francis Howell High School [7001 Highway 94

16 • Communication: Journalism Education Today Fall 2008 “What was most interesting about the caucus ack Obama.” was the record turnout among republicans, independent and first time voters coming out to support Bar –Graham Salinger, senior Tuesday 4 Keeping up TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2008 November 20, U-HIGH MIDWAY ■ 2007 “I would really like to see more co- ing the results of the New Hampshire hesion between Senators Clinton and linois 60637 primary on the news, I was surprised- Obama, though, in such a historically Exciting Super Unconcerned with Tuesday the outcomes of fires enthusiasm IDWAY that Senator Obama didn’t win be significant election. the earlier primaries, Junior Mike Mol 1362 East 59th Street, Chicago, Il By Alex Kleiman cause so many sources were predict- Some of the conflict Casey believes that the results of larg- between them is very Midway reporter ing that he would. U-HIGH er states with more delegates matters unfortunate.” “Seeing the results of the primaries most. Volume 83, Number 3 University High Scho trongly supporting Illinois - has gotten me excited to see who will Senior Eva Jaeger “I really don’t think that the early Senator Barack Obama on Su run in the general election.” said she appreciated caucuses and primaries make much per Tuesday February 5, many Not influenced by the Democratic the Senator’s senti- S difference since everything has turned ment in her emotion- U-Highers said they stayed glued to debates, Guidance Eva U-Highers travel out so inconsistent,” al New Hampshire Counselor Camille their T.V. sets until the wee hours Mike said. “The big- Baughn-Cunningham victory speech. watching the results come in. ger states like Cali- finds Senators Obama “Bill Clinton didn’t win Iowa either, important to them,” Dan said. “It is The primary races kept U-Highers in- fornia who have more to Iowa for Obama - and Clinton’s arguing so I’m not too worried,” Eva said. also important that we tell them what trigued start to finish. Many faculty delegates will really members said they can’t recall a pre unnecessary. “When she started to tear up in New is important to us, to show them why make a difference, Hampshire, I really came to respect Iowa could hold key “Debates can be we are spending the day canvassing vious election which engaged the stu- in my mind. No one tricky about what they her. for Barack. Once we’ve talked to dent body more. person seems to be Ms. Baugh- to Presidency bid After attentively Mike choose to show you,” “She seemed so genuine in her mo- people we write down their response holding ground at the Cunningham By Graham Salinger following recent de- Ms. Cunningham ment of weakness. If she were a man on a piece of paper, which we give to bates, Freshman Joel top. no one would call her ‘not friendly’ and Associate Editor - said. “They can be informative, but I one of the Iowa offices. Sachnoff feels they “Since Senator McCain not only ris ‘not open.’ She may not be as good of - don’t let them guide my decisions. It’s “If they support Hillary Clinton it is reveal the candidates’ fought in a war, but was also a p a speaker as Senator Obama, but I re n navy blue “Students for Barack nice to see candidates step out of their good to know because then we won’t true colors. oner of war, I think he would makewar ally appreciated her openness in that Obama” t-shirts, six U-Highers serious roles during debates, but this spend any more time on them. If they “I really think that the right decisions regarding the speech.” along with 37 students from other - nonchalant behavior can also show I support Obama it is good to know the Republican pri in Iraq and I think people recognize schools in Illinois traveled to Iowa because then we know to knock on their flaws. City Saturday, November 3, by bus to maries are espe- that.” their door on caucus night and get Joel re campaign for Senator Obama. Pleased about a larger than usu- them to caucus. cially interesting because there are The January 3 caucuses represent al turnout at caucuses, Sophomo “If they are undecided we know to no real front-runners,” Joel said. the first step in selection of delegates Annchellie Akuamoah feels that spend more time finding out what “I wasn’t expecting Baptist Minister - to the 2008 Democratic Convention. younger voters are driving the elec- is important to them so that the Mike Huckabee to win the Iowa pri any The four-hour bus ride to Iowa City, tion. campaign can send them information. mary at all; I just can’t see him being beginning at 6:30 a.m., included “I was very surprised that so m “Iowa is the first Presidential contest nominated to run in the general elec- people attended the political discussion and a self-designed in the country. It is also a caucus tion because of his stance on the war caucuses,” Annchellie trivia game by students on the bus state, so instead of going into a voting and immigration. said. “It seems like about Senator Obama. booth, voters meet for about two hours “I’ve enjoyed the heated debates be- Senator Obama got For Senior Dan Hornung, state of on a cold January night to vote on a tween Senators Obama and Clinton, a lot of the younger Illinois high school director for Barack candidate. As we move closer and especially on the topic of the econo- voters to come out, Obama, making his fourth trip to Iowa closer to January 3, people will pay my. more so than any of City, the ride provided an opportunity (continues on page 13) “Such intense debates show the the other candidates. - to calm the nerves of students making Photos courtesy candidates’ true colors. I think that When I was watch their first day trip to Iowa City and of Senator Obama has excelled in the Annchellie to explain how to go door to door Amy debates.” recruiting Obama supporters to attend Solomon a caucus for him. and Bianca Among U-Highers making their first Harris ithdrawal trip were Sophomores Keira Kennedy Market W Photo courtesy of Graham Salinger- and Amelia Acosta and Seniors University dents in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, vol Victoria Rogers and Bianca Harris ary 4, Dan Hornung AMONG SEVEN Chicago high school stu . Also joining them was Sophomore emind local residents to caucus Amy Solomon, making her second trip. unteering for the Obama campaign December 29-Janu ntial s a daily hot After being split into groups, students - A held up posters at busy intersections to r Nov. 20, epare to cam January 3. Four other U-Highers volunteered. canvassed the Iowa City neighborhood Victoria Rogers and Dan Hornung walk to find the nextfrom pote Iowa field spot for after-school U-High Midway, designated by maps they received from s from six other Obama supporter; Keira Kennedy and Amy Solomonn doors; pr on the bus, the Chicago Obama Headquarters. mber 3, for paign; Keira Amelia Acosta and Keira hear directions snacks, University As an experienced canvasser, Dan SIX U-HIGHERS along with student Iowa Cau - organizers; Victoria and Dan get ready to knock o Market provides the Dan visits with other campaigners. U-Highers find campaigning in Iowa 2007 and Feb. 4, 2008, says he plans to continue to canvass schools in Illinois traveled to Iowa City, Nove perfect remedy to a day of campaigning towards the January 3 in Iowa during winter break. wash away the sour for Obama a memorable experience “The most important thing for us to cuses. From left top: at University High School, aftertaste of a math was amazing because Barack, literally, do is to engage voters and see what is had almost double the support of any take the 151, which is a much slower bus, taking test gone bad, or to By Rafi Khan Midway reporter other candidate,” Don explained. least another half an hour for me to get home. I Chicago, Ill. (Wayne scheduled to take effect January 6, have parents cap off the feeling “After the first line up, a person from Public transportation cuts wouldn’t affect most“If that didn’t U-Higherswork, I could always take the L, each of the groups supporting the and teenagers across the city worried about longer of elusive ecstasy “ Doing the dirty work, work that no one By David McAlpine but that would involve a lot more walking than candidates gave a speech. I didn’t think Brasler, adviser) Editor-in-Chief travel times and rerouting through dangerous already do. I take the same routes on weekends, after a math test else wanted to do but what eventually her - anybody was phenomenal, but when neighborhoods. U-Highers, however, don’t have too, to soccer, art classes and violin, so it’d be really helped us win, was definitely one of the Though the first in a series of route cuts passed gone pretty delight best experiences of my life.” the lady for Obama spoke she went much to worry about it, since hardly any use the CTA inconvenient if they got rid of my routes. I’d rat completely against his message. with no consequences, it’s not over yet. as a primary mode of transportation. fully well. With the Helping out in the Obama campaigns pay more and have all the routes available than to “She attacked Hillary Clinton and Proposed Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) cuts Most U-Highers who use public for the Iowa caucuses, Sophomore Amy scintillating taste John Edwards by saying that they were transportation to get downtown and to have to reroute.” Solomon reflected on the experience, of tofu chicken or not good candidates and they would not Spotlight, Jan. 24, 2008, the North Side use the former Illinois Senior Melissa Gracia, who lives in Pilsen, south of which she shared with four other do anything positive for the American Central Electric branch of Metra. downtown, relies on two CTA buses to get to school the classic feel of a U-Highers. daily. Though some of the routes she takes were From December 27 to Januarypeople. I found this outrageous because With service from 55th, 56th, 57th Snickers bar against the fact is that it was completely Francis Howell High School, and 59th street stations to the South slated for elimination on November 4, none of them pulsating skin, Uni- Photo by Liwen Xu 4, Amy had been canvassing made the list for January 6. throughout Johnson County in freezing against Obama’s campaign. Loop, Millenium Park and Loop L O, THIS student is not comatose - versity Market in- N temperatures and making phone calls “So, sooner than later, all of the St. Charles, Mo. (Michele stops, the train is a popular choice for “I take the 60 Blue Island and the 2 Hyde Park - dulges your soon- but simply drifting into a deep, hal trying to convince Iowans to comepeople who came in unsure about who U-Highers. Express to school, then the 6 Jackson Park Express lucinogenic sleep of University Mar to the Precinct 18 caucus and, more to caucus for, immediately went to Catching a ride with her mother most and 60 back home,” Melissa explained. “I’m to-be-conquered - either Hillary or Edwards. I couldn’t Dunaway, adviser) extremely dependant on the CTA and I’m really ket dreams. Waiting an entire day for importantly, to vote for Obama. mornings, Sophomore Julia Baird appetites with effi- school to end, Junior Sam Shapiro wist “Most Iowans were willing to listen, believe it. takes a bus from a Metra stop to her lucky that, now, none of my regular routes are “Being there, I realized that I scheduled to be cut. cient means of stim- fully waits to satisfy his cravings. but some would hang up or slam the Lakeview home. The January cuts explained. Amy face,” your in door was witnessing a true example of “I have no idea what I would do without the CTA. ulating tastes. threaten both bus routes she counts “I can understand their frustration democracy at its best because it was the It already takes me an hour-and-a-half to get to on. because they constantly get so much opportunity for your average American to have a large impact on the result of The Little Dodger, Jan. 11, “I’m quite dependant on the CTA,” school, so to reroute would be absolutely terrible. I pressure and attention to vote. I felt the caucus. Julia said. “I take either the 145 or wouldn’t mind paying a little more to stop the cuts, that it was really rewarding to find but as long as my routes are still in operation, I’m even one person after hours of knocking “And yes, I guess you could say that 2008, Fort Dodge (Iowa) the 146 Michigan Avenue express about all campaign volunteering but buses from the Metra up north. happy.” on door after door that I could talk to Photo by Ramzi Dreessen this was just a really cool example of or “If those were to get cut, I’d have to and convince to caucus and vote for University Obama.” it.” Senior High School (John The Iowa caucuses represented an Other volunteers included Seniors BUYING A TICKET on the X28 Stony Island Express, Seni example of democracy at its finest, Dan Hornung, Graham Salinger and Raphi Cuenod is one of few U-Highers who take the CTA. 1323 East 57th Street according to Junior Don Traubert. Robert Strickling. McBride, adviser) U-High Art by Eric Chicago, Illinois 60637 Market “When I went into one of the caucuses it LOOKING Art by Cochrane (773) 363-0070 Lauline Tribes INSIDE World in Gough 8-9 HAPPY families, sad Art by Eric families, close families, Time Cochrane 4 a Warm IS GLOBAL WARMING distant families. U-Highers Volume 91, Issue 6 Fort Dodge Senior High, Fort Dodge, Iowa a real threat? U-Highers tell their own stories. to IS THE LAB lurch certainly think so and Friday Jan. 11, 2008 3 SCHOOLS the best can tell you why. Friends, Shine school it can be? A the self-study begins. Spotlight the 7 teachers Jan. 24, 2008 remember Chatfeatures sophomore Kayla Jones: Chatfeatures Spotlight Page 2 6 Jan. 24, 2008 Before voting in the February primary, LittleLittle John McCain “Ready from day one.” –Photo by Amy Knight check out the candidatesHillary and Clinton the issues they areJohn McCain debating is a Republican who believes that Jack Fletcher, left, and Nathan “Help make history.” America can create a stable and representative state in Iraq. National security is also a top priority for Dolan pose with actor Chuck Rudy Giulani Hillary Clinton has spent her life working - this candidate. McCain stands for health care for all Norris at the Republican Caucus “Tested. Ready. Now.” to support women and families, and she has the citizens, and also allowing each individual to have at the high school on Jan. 3. Nor Rudy Giuliani is best known for his effort as experience needed to be President of the United ris was in town to support Mike Barack Obama xes more control over his or her own care. He believes in The Marathon“Stand for change” Begins!the mayor of New York City during the attacks of States. A graduate of Wellesley College, Clinton also tightening the nation’s borders and restricting illegal Huckabee. e Dodger Barack Obama is a strong liberal favoring abortion Sept. 11. He reduced or eliminated over 23 city ta Dodger Mike Huckabee attended Yale Law School. After graduating from Yale, immigration. McCain also takes great pride in being as a woman’s right; hiring more women and minorities; during his term. If elected president, Giuliani has a list Clinton became an advocate for children and families. an environmentalist. He believes limiting greenhous “Faith. Family. Freedom.” e same-sex domestic partnership benefits; and repealing of twelve commitments to the people of the United As president, Clinton wants to strengthen the middle gases, and dependence on foreign supplies can and will Republican Mike Huckabee makes the point of his States, including keeping America on the offense in the tax cuts on the wealthy. Obama opposes privatizing class, end the war in Iraq, and provide affordable and help lead the way in making all nations proactive for a campaign very clear: he wants to show people that th terrorists’ war, cutting taxes, increasing adoptions, and social security; the absolute right to gun ownership; accessible health care for all 47 million American global environment. American Dream is still alive. Huckabee’s plans to improve and the Patriot Act because it harms civil liberties decreasing abortions. He will ensure that the American Citizens. Clinton has what it takes to be the president the education and health care systems give each American (issues2000.org). However, he found common ground community is prepared for terrorist attacks or natural equal opportunities. He also would like to implement the with Republicans, accumulating a record of bipartisan disasters. Besides his commitments, he’s a proven leader that the country needs right now; she has the plan Fair Tax, which would eliminate all other federal taxes. success during his tenure as an Illinois Senator of a great city. necessary to complete her goals. He believes that the true strength of the country (barackobama.com). Obama is a supporter of civil rights According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Third parties comes from families, not the military or economy. and equality in voting, education, and the work force. In Alcoholism, each year, approximately 5,000 kids under the age Huckabee promises to fight to preserve the sanctity of brief, Obama is committed to maximizing the country’s they spend the money on and raise the requirements to be eligible of 21 die from alcohol-related motor crashes, homicides and key part in marriage and put an end to abortions. greatest natural resource: the American people. for the benefits,” sophomore Ben Sammons said. suicides, and from injuries such as burns, falls and drowning. ill patients to use marijuana as a pain-control substance available This issue might directly affect students because the social Routine teen drinkers may also experience issues with behavior, by prescription for conditions such as cancer. security system may be bankrupt by the time they are eligible for fighting, lack of participation, disruption in normal growth and elections “Legalizing marijuana will help medical patients ease the pain retirement benefits. Some find this unfair, while others are less unwanted or unprotected sexual activity. of their illnesses,” senior Tim Meinczinger said. worried about it. “Other countries have a lower drinking age because they Third party candidates, at first What’s at stake But in California, marijuana can be prescribed for simple “I’m not too concerned about it because I don’t need it for have no problems. Here, it will always be a problem,” junior glance, do not seem that important. pains, such as patients with anxiety or backaches. This has led the another forty-four years, so they should be able to figure it out by Hannah Black said. reported by Kristen Felker They rarely, if ever, win the election. DEA to raid many California dispensaries, according to the Dec. then,” junior Derek Burnett said. reported by Michelle Nolan However, third party candidates are “There is no way the whole country is going to make 30 60 Minutes report. essential to the electoral process. Next president must solve problems Many similar laws have been passed in Europe that say sacrifices to stop global warming,” senior Richreported Campbell by Sujin said. Chong Iraq War First, third party candidates support marijuana is no more harmful than cigarettes or alcohol. Underage Drinking With over 166,000 troops currently stationed in Iraq and causes and policies that have become Environment “Even though alcohol can impair the mind like marijuana, it The argument of changing the drinking age from 21 years of Global warming is a major political issue this election year. Afghanistan, some Americans are starting to question how an integral part of society. For has limits and expected consequences,” junior Cenk Papilla said. age to 18 years of age remains a continuous issue among political Global warming happens when air pollution traps the sun’s heat involved their military should be. Because of public opinion, war instance, women’s right to vote, social Legalizing Medical Marijuana But here in the states, permitting marijuana to be legalized candidates. The United States has the highest drinking age in the and temperature rises. The more pollution there is in the air, the The legalization of marijuana for medical purposes is one of has become an important issue in the presidential election. security, child labor laws and the for medical use has been a battle for many years between world; while in other countries, the drinking age varies from 16-20 higher the temperature rises. the most controversial topics. For decades, the war on drugs has “America has really pulled a ‘Team America’ with the whole creation of a 40-hour work week are politicians, police authority, and citizens. As a result, it’s sure to be years of age. When this happens, it can cause the Arctic to melt and raise Iraq situation,” sophomore Rachel Anders said. “We have really now in place because of the support remained a problem and still an important issue today. an important issue in the coming elections. reported by Erin Key “Kids will learn to be more responsible and, if you are old sea levels. According to the December issue of Rolling Stone magazine, isolated ourselves from the rest of the world.” and publicity third parties gave the enough to fight and die for our country, drinking should be legal This disrupts the ocean’s circulation system, affecting the millions of Americans fall victim to dangerous drug habits America has been in the war since October 2001 and there issues. Third parties also are an exact and a right,” junior Brandy Stevens said. have been few signs of stopping. While the war has produced example of democratic freedom, temperature of some countries, making them either coolerwww. everyday. In addition, the National Institute of Drug Abuse Social Security Senior Matt Watt agrees, saying, “Making kids wait until or warmer. The heat will also cause more storms, droughts, (NIDA) believes marijuana leads to negative effects on the brain, results, including the capture of Saddam Hussan, Americans allowing the common man to not Mismanaged. they are 21 only makes things worse because kids have to sneak illnesses, and more energy usage throughout the planet ( heart and lungs. remain concerned about what should be done in the Middle East only run for office, but to let him g). That is one of many terms often used to describe the current around and do bad things, like driving around drunk and other environmentaldefense.or But the National Institute of Health (NIH) has been or how long we should be there. create his own party. Some active American social security crisis. As one of today’s critical issues, Most of the candidates such as Hilary Clinton and Barack stupid stuff, rather than being legal and acting responsible.” “I think we will be there for quite awhile still,” junior Adam third parties of today are the Reform studying marijuana for years because they believe it holds medical many Americans fear the government won’t be able to return the While most students want the law to be lowered, junior Obama want to prevent this from happening. But others, such as compounds. Koenig said. “I don’t think there is an easy way out.” party, the Green party, the Libertarian money that is taken from their income. Hilary Speis thinks differently. “I don’t see why people can’t just use regular medication,” How the future president deals with the current situation party and the Constitution party. Mitt Romney, avoid this subject and talk about other problems to In 1935, Franklin Delano Roosevelt signed a Social Security “The law should stay at age 21 because it’s a good age. You fix. junior Alex Schaper said, “but if there’s no other alternative, I in the Middle East has separated citizens from candidates they Independent parties will not nominate Bill to help Americans who were in debt after the Great are responsible enough to determine whether you can drive or “We’re destroying our ozone layer. That’s what protects us guess its fine.” would usually support while other people are apathetic towards their presidential candidates until this Depression. The bill stated that part of everyone’s income was find alternative ways to get home,” Speis said. from the sun’s harmful rays,” sophomore Sydnie Bianchi said. On the other hand, many policy makers claim that marijuana what their candidate’s stance is. summer. to be withheld by the government and put towards the person’s The main reason why people think the law should remain the reported by Katie Herring “Unless we’re prepared to live in a different world with a is hazardous, often leading to stronger drugs. Drug Enforcement “The candidate’s stance completely has an influence on me.” retirement. Due to the government using that money for same is because students go out and party hard when Friday night Some precincts finished relatively early, but some of the different habitat, we need to stop the progression of the effect Administration (DEA) studies have shown that users of illegal senior Ally Simon said. “I’m voting for Obama just for his stance government programs, other than social security benefits, and begins. Having “fun” sometimes leads to having regrets that just other, larger precincts took a while. The caucus was finally that global warming is having,” science teacher Cathy Gelnett drugs began with marijuana and it’s labeled a gateway drug, on Iraq. He wants peace and so do I.” reported by Andrew Cogswell ney, Rudy Guliani, John McCain and Mike Huckabee—had the increase of retirees, it seems the government may be short of might change someone’s life forever. Kick-starting the campaignfinished at around 9:00 when Huckabee was found to be the said. By Nate Rogers people speaking on their behalf that evening. leading abusers to harder drugs. As a result, authorities fear that cash, leaving some to fear they won’t get their hard-earned money “Drinking makes you make wrong decisions and careless Mike Gravel winner. Other students believe that they should not put funding medical marijuana could fall into the wrong hands and could be Opinion Editor - The most famous, and most excitably received speaker that Several students of the senior high attended the caucus. back. mistakes,” senior Preston Aldridge said. “Let the people decide.” towards global warming. night, was speaking on behalf of Mike Huckabee; the famous Zach Duel, a senior, said he was excited to go because he taken advantage of. “Raising the taxes seems like a possible solution, but it’s Ron Paul Former Alaska governor Mike Gravel is a radical Democracy came alive at Fort Dodge Senior High on Janu actor Chuck Norris. The crowd cheered wildly as Norris stood “I think it’s a waste. The government won’t have enough “It shouldn’t be legalized because people will abuse it,” junior had heard Chuck Norris was there. He said he thought that liberal who is known for his stance on the legalization ary 3, when the building played host to the Webster County - up to the podium with his wife on the senior high’s gym floor definitely not the best one. The government should limit what “Hope for America.” the caucus went very well and that he was impressed with money to afford a proper plan for global warming prevention,” Charlie Zeilinski said. of marijuana. He supports regulating hard drugs for Republican caucus for the general election of 2008. to encourage the caucus-goers to support Huckabee. Norris the experience. He plans on continuing to attend caucuses in Dennis Kucinich Ron Paul ran for president as a Libertarian in 1988, The purpose of the caucus was for members of the Republi senior Alex Duletsky said. Nationally, twelve states so far have passed laws for seriously rehabilitation and prevention. Gravel also supports said that he came to the Webster County caucus because it the future. Another student that went to the caucus was junior but this is his first time running as a Republican. Paul Even if the government does something to stop global “Strength through peace.” same-sex marriage and abortion. He pledges immediate can party to vote on who they believe the party should run as was where the Huckabee campaign had asked him to go, and Maria Fink. Although Fink is too young to participate, she currently is a US House Representative. Being a great its presidential candidate for the election that will be held in Mitt Romney Dennis Kucinich is one of the candidates vying withdrawal from the Middle East and would have the - he was happy to go wherever they wanted. went to listen to the speakers and observed the proceedings of warming, some people believe that it cannot be stopped. believer in limited federal government, Paul voted November. The victors of the caucuses were Barack Obama for the Democratic nomination. Kucinich is all about troops home within 120 days of his presidency. Gravel After the short opening speeches, the people broke up into the caucus, going with her parents to their precinct. Fink said “True strength for America’s future.” against the Patriot Act and has never voted to increase for the Democratic Party, and Mike Huckabee for the Repub helping the average Joe and campaigns for civil, human, believes that global warming is a matter of national their different precincts. The areas they live in within the she found it intriguing to see like-minded Republicans come John Edwards Mitt Romney, a Republican candidate, commits to lican Party. and worker’s rights. He wants to create a national health the power of the executive branch. He also has never county determined what precincts—or, voting districts—they together, yet still have differing viewpoints and be able to talk keeping families safe from violent crimes, sexual predators, security and plans to do what he can to limit harmful The turnout for the caucus was spectacular. A huge crowd “Join the campaign to change America” voted to raise taxes, and has always voted to lower or belonged to. The different precinct groups were set up in the about them openly. She plans on attending caucuses herself repeat drunk drivers, and gang violence (National Review care plan and preserve social security. He wants to gas releases into the air. John Edwards is a self-made man who brings a abolish federal taxes. Paul opposes the Iraq War, and of excited party members packed the gymnasium at around gym, cafeteria, the Little Theatre, and the Student Center. when she comes of age. Online). As the Massachusetts’s governor, Romney bring tax relief to lower-income families. He has been 6:30 p.m., filling both sides of the stands. Webster County fresh sense of character to the presidential race. After voted against it. Furthermore, he has pro-life and pro- Each precinct went about collecting ballots from their people founded Bain Capital, one of the nation’s most successful a member of the House of Representatives for over 10 Republican chairperson Tina Kastendieck brought the caucus graduating from North Carolina State University in family values, and views the Constitution as the highest - in a different way. investment companies, and guided hundreds of years. Kucinich was also a senator, and at 31 years old, he to relative order and introduced the evening’s speakers. Many 1974, Edwards earned a law degree in 1977 from the authority of government. companies on successful courses. Romney believes that became the youngest mayor of a major city (Cleveland). of the major Republican candidates—including Mitt Rom University of North Carolina. As a lawyer, Edwards national security should be strengthened by adding more He has worked as a teacher, consultant, TV analyst, took on powerful interests and stood up for families. 4 South] St. Charles, MO 63304 troops to our military and caring more for the veterans hospital orderly, and author, giving him a variety of Now, he is taking his concept of standing up for middle (DesMoinesRegister.com). Romney wants to reform the perspectives on issues. class America into the presidency. His dream is to education system so young people can compete for good Francis Howell High School [7001 Highway 9 build one America by standing up for regular families, paying jobs. Voting for Mitt Romney means, living in an restoring America’s leadership role in the world, and America that is safe, prospers, and is free. investing in the future. South] St. Charles, MO 63304

Francis Howell High School [7001 Highway 94

Fall 2008 Communication: Journalism Education Today • 17 Involvement The bright lights and big stars, ranging from Chelsea Clinton to Martin Luther King, III, surrounded us on every side. I was elbowing the guy from Time to my left and the guy from the New York Times, with his telescopic lens, to my right for a good shot. The three titans — Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama and John Edwards — came out, and the stage lit up with flashes with the sound of shutters making me feel as though I was with an artillery battalion shooting machine guns in Iraq.

hen we were told to cease fire, we Horry County, distributes about 20,000 free fought gallantly for the few remain- copies in addition to paid subscriptions. Wing shots. I left feeling proud and I started writing articles for them at the dignified, like a soldier who helped win the birth of the paper in November 2007. Since decisive battle in the war. I got my picture. But then, I feel as though I somehow am rejuvenat- before I put my lens cap back on, I made sure ing the dying animal that I hold so dearly to to get a “high five” from Dave Chappelle, the my heart — the printed press. popular comedian. During the last five months on staff, I have Through ambition in journalism, at the covered bomb threats at Wal-Mart, new busi- state, local and national levels, I was afforded ness openings, a Little League baseball team the opportunity to cover the 2008 Democratic of 10-year-olds, ranked the best in the nation Presidential Primary Debate, sponsored by with pitchers who throw 60 mph, and other CNN and the Congressional Black Caucus in happenings in the community. Myrtle Beach, S.C. None of these stories, however, compares Now let’s rewind. I never even wanted to get to coverage of the Democratic Debate. It was a into journalism. night that I was able to cover the passion I’ve After an accidental introduction to jour- had since I was 7 and decided to write to then nalism my freshman year in Pennsylvania, I President Clinton. Now I cover politics. decided to continue the course for its boost After grabbing the pictures of the candi- to my GPA, but it was in my sophomore year dates in the debate hall and roughing it up when I began to love this field. I was promoted with the guys from Time and The New York from assistant news editor to news editor and Times, the night still wasn’t over. After watch- later to editor. I had become the youngest EIC ing the debate on large flat-screen televisions in my school’s history. in Phillips Seafood Restaurant, the traveling My comfort zone on that staff was put in the press pool went back to the debate hall to the blender when my parents decided to move to spin room. There, I interviewed three U.S. South Carolina. I compiled my clippings and senators, two members of the U.S. House of was put on my new high school’s staff as man- Representatives and a few others. aging editor. Now, as a senior, I am the editor- Journalism has empowered me far beyond in-chief of my new high school’s paper my wildest dreams. In addition to informing However, my adviser, Martha Herring, knew the public, I open the world to my readers. there was more for me to do. I’ll never forget I have the confidence to succeed. With SIPA, the first time we sat down and she said, “Tony I have the ability to mold and to perfect the you’re going to major in journalism.” It was skills and talents of young journalists in 13 at a similar setting where she told me that I states. I have a love that has given me every- should get a job with a local paper. thing. This experience has changed my life. I I made my phone calls, and the publisher have journalism. n of the Horry Independent wanted an interview. He said the open spot had been filled, but Anthony Miller, editor-in-chief, The Prowler that there was a special project he wanted me Carolina Forest High School, Myrtle Beach, S.C. to start on, The Carolina Forest Chronicle. The (Martha Herring, adviser) Chronicle, now the largest weekly paper in

18 • Communication: Journalism Education Today Fall 2008 85% of Compiled by Chelsea Schneider Americans Presidential Hopefuls have night- Photo Illustrations by mares. Mackenzie Helgerson 45-54 year old Ameri- . . . cans get an ght average of y li John McCain earl 8.3 hours ns Mitt Romney aw of sleep per the d Barak Obama by night. Hilary Clinton Overturn Roe v. Wade except for rape, incest free and the home of the brave Was pro-choice, now is Teens 15- Favors pro-life 19 get an

 Favors abortion rights e average of

Abortion: abortion rights e 9.5 hours

Let states decide s of sleep per

Would let states decide, Opposes gay marriage night. How well do you know America? Would let states decide, opposes constitutional

Gay Marriage: opposes constiutional amendment to ban it u Less than The following questions are similar to the questions on the U.S. Citizenship amendment to ban it Bring costs under

1% of o and Immigration Services citizenship test. Complete the quiz, clip it out, and control, provide access Make quality afordable Americans turn it in to room 301 to be entered into a drawing for a free CD. health insurance available to health care to citizens

Who wrote “The Star- Goal of universal coverage suffer from y What country did we Goal for universl health Spangled Banner?” by 2021 to every American Narcolepsy

How many stars are fight during the Health Care: care in eight years there on the U.S. flag? A. Katharine Lee Bates Borders must be secure,

Revolutionary War? B. Francis Scott Key About 70 n A. 51 federal government has A. France C. Jack Norworth - For ending illegal - million B. 50 For border fence, com failed in its responsibili

B. Mexico immigration, secure people in a C. 48 prehensive immigration ties to ensure security

C. England Voted for border fence border the U.S. c - Immigration: reform that respects our

suffer from What is the most im immigrant heritage and Keep tax rates low, cut a sleeping How many portant right granted honors the law taxes for middle class

Why did the pilgrims - Unleash the American disorder. y amendments are there to U.S. citizens Supports eliminating mar economy through lower families, lower come to America? - in the constitution? A. The freedom of speech riage penalty and extend taxes medicare premiums The

a A. Taxes were too high Taxes: Opposed extending tax A. 32 B. The right to vote ing child tax credit average

s B. To claim more land cuts through 2010 B. 10 C. The freedom of religion - - Ameri-

C. For religious freedom Implement new coun C. 27 Supports timed with can house ter insurgency strategy,

drawal but only by Iraqis is worth h strengthen Iraqi armed

What is the head What is the White - and in secret, staying $185,200. o forces and police Who said, “Give me executive of a city House’s address? Complete pull-out of com in Iraq protects lives of Iraq: Opposes troop increase, liberty or give me bat brigades by March 31, American citizens 32.7 % of government called? A. 1600 Pennsylvania Blvd. NE wants to end the war death?” 2009 homes in A. Senator B. 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. NW Lead-er on the issue of the United A. Patrick Henry B. Governor C. 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. SW global warming, believes Mayor - States are B. George Washington C. Invest in new technolo economic and envior- C. Ben Franklin Compiled by Chelsea Schneider rented.

Reduce mercury and lead gies to get us off of nmental interests are e h t f o d n a l e h t r e ’

O Environment: Proposed an Apollo linked to protect community foreign oil 49.2% of project dedicated to - health the United achieving energy inde States 86% of pendence American population kids at- is male. tend public 50.8% of schools. “They have that right, why not?” the popu- Cusmir said. America’s youngsters growing With famous campaigns such as the lation is On average Presidential candidates attempt to attract youngerNot everyone agrees. crowd people “Vote or Die” campaign, which took female. Instead, our generation was offered a Barbie to an unofficial war, but Democrat Senior Gabe Pacho isn’t planning on who live in helsea Schneider candidates such as Hillary Clinton and place four years ago in the infamous up smarter eachdoll generation and a race car which demanded for us to use opinion editor voting because he isn’t registered. Seattle sit Barack Obama support and favor the John Kerry vs. Bush election. The 15.1% of the helsea Schneider opinion editor our imaginations. And although we had “Sesame C “I haven’t gotten around to it,” said cap on troop levels. campaign involved a huge variety of American in 48 hours Street,” most of our video watching involved Disney The year 2008 can mean a lot of Pacho. of traffic a C Obama is hoping to begin celebrities who made it a priority to population Although he may not be voting, Pacho movies and Barney reruns. things. Whether you’re a George encourage younger citizens to make a year. With all the new and latest technology hitting withdrawal on May 1 and complete claims at It’s weird to think that a kid five years younger W. Bush fan or not, Bush will be difference by registering to vote and still thinks it’s important to vote. our generation, it’s no wonder that the younger pull-out of combat brigades by March “If someone has an opinion, they can least one than you could be just as smart as you, but that out of office after serving two terms voice their opinions. 10% of U.S. 31, 2009. Although Clinton opposes disability. population of kids are catching the intelligence just shows how much our world is advancing in which can bring either excitement or This election, presidential candidates express that through voting,” Pacho families bug. troop increases, she does want to start technology each year. unease. are taking a more cyber approach with said. have five If you think about it, a lot of commercials on TV withdrawals with U.S. troops out of Eighteen year olds are under 12.5% of Everywhere you go, you can see younger and The person taking his place is yet Republican John McCain and Democrat people or advertise toys for younger kids that will help them Iraq by 2009. Americans younger kids using technology. For instance, a kid to be determined with a heated and Barack Obama splashing themselves pressure to register to vote because it more. In develop skills quicker than when we were their age. Former New York City mayor who are foreign the age of seventeen probably got his or her first CD competitive presidential race featuring all over MySpace.com to attract the is an important duty as an American 1970, 21% Among these toys are “Baby Einstein,” “V-Tech,” was mayor during September 11, born. around the age of ten, so it’s different to see a little prominent candidates that will baffle younger voters who don’t think voting citizen, and it is their right. Citizens did. and “Leap Frog” products. Republican Rudy Giuliani supports five or six year old with CD collections. Or when citizens on over exactly is the right is that big of a deal. in America are privileged to be able to Those specific toys help enable individualized troop increase. 27% of you go to the mall or to the store, you see little kids person to vote for. Eighteen-year-old senior Jonathan vote for their leaders. In some other The aver- age-appropriate learning with a huge selection of According to the Web site www. Americans with cell phones texting their little friends. Citizens will be choosing Cusmir said he definitely will be voting countries bigoted restrictions are put age products to meet each child’s needs. humanevents.com, Republican have earned As popular as cell phones are today, Ipods and candidates based on their opinions in the upcoming presidential election, on who is allowed to vote. Our younger commute Dr. Dimitri Christakis from the University candidate Mitt Romney says he either a MP3 players are just as popular, too. Apple offers about such topics as gay marriage, and he has strong opinions on the way generation needs to realize that voting time in of Washington led a study last spring with his wants to “stabilize the [Iraq] nation Bachelor’s kid shows that you can purchase for your Ipod such abortion, immigration, taxes, he thinks the country should be run in does make a difference, and they have colleagues and found that by three months, 40 to the extent humanly possible so degree or Washing- as Nickelodeon and Disney shows and Disney music education, and the environment, but the future. the power to determine the outcome of that Iraq cannot be torn apart by its higher. ton is 24 percent of babies are regular viewers of DVDs, that little kids hear on their favorite shows. everyone knows the biggest issue “I don’t want Hillary Clinton in elections. minutes. videos or television. By the time they are two years Where’s technology going to be in the next that citizens will base their decisionneighbors.” Stay tuned into the presidential race Besides the war having a huge office because men should always be old, almost 90 percent are spending two to three generation? With where it is right now, technology on in the upcoming election will be because this one is sure to be one for the influence on the presidential race, president,” Cusmir said. Since 1980, hours each day in front of a screen. is making people smarter and smarter. the candidates’ views on the war in Cusmir thinks it’s important for history books. the aver- So if those two or three hours of screen time a It used to be a fifty-year-old conductor of an Iraq. voting amongst younger citizens such as eighteen year olds will play a moreyounger citizens to vote. age income day are spent engaged in learning software, it’s orchestra that amazed audiences; now it’s a five Because of the war in Iraq, pivotal role in the election outcome. has grown no wonder the younger generations are getting year old piano prodigy. The tables have turned presidential candidates can’t promise

26.5%. smarter and smarter. citizens troop withdrawals or an end

in the classroom, now teachers often have to ask Bureau Census

TIME Magazine and the U.S. U.S. the and Magazine TIME 2006 Statistics taken from from taken Statistics 2006 As silly as those products are to us now, if our students how to operate computers. 98% of Americans merica by 71% of generation of teens were offered those products Clearly, as technology advances, so are the minds 13.3% of American claim to be from 17% of people The average Internet when we were younger, then maybe our generation of our younger generation. - individuals live only one racial spend the same American house the numbers users use would be smarter and have that extra boost of - 78% of people below the poverty background. 83% of all Ameri amount on their hold had 2.61 Google. intelligence. - - think that sleep is level. 17% of those over cans don’t work mattress as on people in 2006. A an alternative to 3,972,603 movie 66% of Americans weight Americans out on a regular their vacations. are children or cosmetic surgery. Americans spend tickets are sold are overweight or basis. 71% of households teens. Only 30% of - an average 144 obese. have Internet con - daily in the United Internet users min. daily, watch States. nections. In 2001 ing television. said they use only 50% did. inView, Jan. 22, 2008 Wikepedia Mountainview High School, election ‘081/25/08 5 Auburn, Wash. (Mackenzie Helgerson, editor; Stephanie been election ‘08 iddates has Keagle, adviser) 1/25/08 tial cand 4 ing presiden the y to main o reforming of the 10 re out of Iraq to Read one en ange. Every from pulling nted wide-op y h of change, den some kind n this unprece for Left Behind. I into their own campaigning ing No Child change make histor ] Crier, Jan. 25, 2008 o abolish ever to take tax system t e power than United States. will have mor esident of the Munster (Ind.) High School election, voters ] [ R E P U B L I C A N S hands and decide who they want as the next pr (Nancy Hastings, adviser) C [ D E M O C R A T S

Name: Mitt Romney Name: Ron Paul Age: 60 years old Name: Age: Birthplace: oit, MI John McCain 72 years old gh, PA Detr Name: Age: Birthplace: Family: Ann Mike Huckabee 71 years old Pittsbur ol Married to en Name: Rudy Giuliani Age: 52 years old Birthplace: Family: ve childr : AK Panama Canal Married to Caren Davies with fi Name: Barack Obama Age: Birthplace Hope, ve childr Religion: ichi 63 years old Zone Paul with fi Mormon Name: Age: Birthplace: ooklyn, NY Family: Family: Religion: otestant Education: Dennis Kucin 46 years old Br ee Married to Janet Married twice, Pr g Brigham Birthplace: Family: Education: , B.A., Name: Mike Gravel Age: 60 years old Honolulu, HI Married thr Huckabee currently to Cindy Hens- Gettysbur Young University , ds IL ently to Judi Na- en d University Name: John Edwar Age: 77 years old Birthplace: Chicago, Family: Married to Mi- times, curr Religion: Baptist ley, with seven childr College, B.A., 1957; Duke 1971; Harvar eld, e, ee children Name: Age: Birthplace: Family: chelle Robinson with two than, with thr Education: Ouachita Religion: , M.D., 1961 Hillary Clinton 54 years old Springfi Married twichh , B.A., Episcopalian University M.B.A., J.D., 1975 Age: Birthplace: ently to Elizabet daughters Religion: Roman Catholic Baptist University Education: Political experience: Political experience: 60 years old Seneca, SC MA curr uughter U.S. Naval epre- Birthplace: Family: Family: , with one da Religion: Christian Education: , B.S., 1958; Na- esent U.S. r Chicago, IL Married to Eliza- Married to Whit- Harper hholic Manhattan 1975; Southwestern Baptist, Academy •1996-pr •2002-2006 Governor of ds with four Religion: Education: A.B., 1965; New ar College, 1974 om Texas Family: Married to Bill beth Edwar ney Stewart with two Roman Catstern Columbia Uni-d College, Theological Seminary tional W sentative fr esen- Massachusetts es , B.A., 1983; Harvar Political experience: epr Celebrity endorsements: Clinton with one daughter children children Education: Case W .A. versity York University Law 1976-80 •1979-1985 U.S. r Religion: Religion: , B , J.D., 1991 Political experience: esent U.S. Senator om Texas Religion: Methodist Methodist o- Unitarian Reserve University University School, J.D., 1968 •1986-pr tative fr CEO of eBay Meg Whit- Education: ellesley Education: North Car Education: Columbia and M.A., 1973 : Political experience: Political experience: •1996-2007 Governor of from Arizona Celebrity endorsement: man, CEO of Intel Paul W Yale , B.S., : epresen- , B.S., 1956 Political experience •2004-present U.S. senator College, B.A., 1969; lina State University University forf •1993 - 2001 Mayor of Arkansas •1983-1987 U.S. r John Mayer Otellini Political experience: York City om Arizona University Law School, 1974; University of North •2004 Launched bidt ial from Illinois New •1993-1996 Lieutenant tative fr esident Attorney Arkansas ector at the Abortion: J.D., 1973 Carolina, J.D., 1977 •1969-1981 U.S. senator Democratic pr •1997-2005 Illinois state •1983-1989 U.S. governor of •1977-1981 Dir ce Abortion: Political experience: Political experience: om Alaska senator for the Southern District of Celebrity endorsement: Navy Senate Liaison Offi •“Unwavering advocate •Opposes abortion rights fr nomination eppre- o-family esent U.S. senator •2004 Democratic vice •1963-1966 Member of •1996-present U.S. r Celebrity endorsement: New York actor Chuck Norris Celebrity endorsement: of pro-life and pr except in cases of rape, •2000-pr esen- ey otect the York esidential candidate om Ohio Oprah Winfr •1981-1983 Associate at- eamworks SKG from New pr Alaska House of Repr sentative fr aator d Chair of Dr values” incest and to pr •1992-2000 First Lady of •1998-2004 U.S. Senator tatives •1995-1996 State sen torney general, the thir Abortion: Roger Enrico •Considers abortion to be life of the mother olina Agent in the Abortion: , but a the United States from North Car •1951-1954 in Ohio highest position in the •Believes in overturning not a federal matter •Previously supported Celebrity endorsements: Celebrity endorsement: U.S. Army Counter Intel- •1977-1979 Mayor of •Supports abortion rights Department of Justice Roe v. Wade Abortion: local matter abortion rights as a 1994 , director actor Ben Stiller ligence Corps Cleveland ent: Gay marriage: Celebrity endorsement: •Supports constitutional •Opposes abortion rights, Gay marriage: Senate candidate 50 Cent, Madonna, Janet e - , billionaire nition of Jackson, Martha Stewart Oliver Stone Celebrity endorsement: Celebrity endorsem •Opposes same-sex mar Adam Sandler amendment banning it unless in cases of rape, •Supports defi Gay marriage: falo dre Hall land otect the - actor Mark Ruf actresses Deir riage, but also opposes a Steve Forbes Gay marriage: incest, or to pr marriage as between man •Opposes same-sex mar Abortion: Abortion: Shelley Morrison constitutional ban •Supports Constitutional - mother’s life and woman riages Abortion: Abortion: ning mar Gay marriage: esidential elections work •Supports abortion rights •Supports abortion rights •Supports civil unions amendment defi •Opposes amending the •Opposes civil unions How pr Gay marriage: Gay marriage: •Supports abortion rights Abortion: War in Iraq: •Supports abortion rights riage as between one man •Says states should decide Constitution to ban same- War in Iraq: - - ehensive, ightsi oop with- rst chooses who they •Opposes same-sex mar •Supports compr •Supports abortion r •Opposed use of military Gay marriage: and one woman •Opposes amendment sex marriage •Opposes tr esident by having •Opposes same-sex mar •Each political party fi opriate sex educa- Gay marriage: force in Iraq •Says marriage should be •Believer in “covenant” against gay marriage •Let each state decide riage but supports civil riage age-appr aage ede- drawal esident’s want as their candidate for pr ned as between a man nition of War in Iraq: unions •Opposes a constitutional tion •Supports gay marri •Supports phased roops defi marriage •Supports defi •Supported the pr oops primary elections in every state amendment banning same- Gay marriage: War on Iraq: ployment of U.S. tr and a woman, but sup- War in Iraq: marriage as a man and a •Stop spreading ourselves plan for additional tr •Says states should ulti- - nnt - egional sum- mately decide the issue sex marriage •Supports same-sex mar •Introduced a 12-poiuding: •Opposed Bush’s plan to ports domestic partner ts for •Supports a r woman ts too thin and focus on in Iraq •Each state has its own primary or caucus ar in Iraq: ess inclu oops to America—bring •Opposes a constitutional W riage plan to Congr s send additional tr ships and legal benefi mit so Iraq’s neighbors •Supports legal benefi securing Education: from January to June oopp e local control amendment banning same- •Voted for use of military •Opposes any amendment -withdrawal of tr Iraq same-sex couples. become militarily and for partners troops home •Wants mor rst caucus, and New force in Iraq, but now says restricting the rights of gay and equipment Education: War in Iraq: fi nancially committed to War in Iraq: •Supports withdrawing over schools sex marriage oork e ar in Iraq ove NCLB •Iowa is always the fi rst primary War in Iraq: that was a “mistake” communities -give contracting w •More funding and mor •Opposes setting timetable stabilizing Iraq •Supports the W troops from Iraq but op- •Wants to impr e is always the fi e troops in Iraq Hampshir oted for use of military •Supported withdrawing War in Iraq: back to Iraqis accurate tests to check for troop withdrawal •No withdrawal •Wants mor posed war spending bill by giving states that meet •V ch eer na- e ready for equire- uesday” when 24 most U.S. troops by Mar if students ar •Supported Bush plan to •No setting timetable for to rebuild Iraq, dismantle which included a plan to or exceed testing r , Feb. 5, is “Super T force in Iraq, but now says •Immediate withdrawal of -cooperate with othrraq American oops exibil- •Tuesday oops within 120 days ove I college she would have voted dif- 2008 all tr uction tions, to impr ies, send additional withdrawal al-Qaeda, and train the withdraw most U.S. tr ments additional fl states will hold primaries or caucuses, often econstr Education: Army ch 2008 ferently “if we knew then •Opposed Bush plan to •Hand over r -rebuild Iraq (factoruses) •Make math and science - troops to Iraq Iraqi by Mar ity in measuring student ed the most important day of the American u Education: e music and Education: Education: consider what we know now” send additional contracts to Iraqi busi- roads, schools, ho education a national prior •Wants mor ol performance primary elections Education: ity, expand high-quality •Offer scholarships to chil- ents should Interesting facts: •Supports de-authorizing troops to Iraq nesses aal, arts education - •Believes par •Give educational contr Education: Education: •Wants free, univers after school opportunities, dren of military person- •Strong supporter of par be able to choose the back to parents •Romney founded Bain s primary is May 6 the war ’s work- der budget licl •Indiana’ •Improve teacher •Wants to re-or and high quality pub expand summer learning nel to pay for the costs of ents’ rights to home school school that’s best for their •Abolish Department of Capital, an investment •Opposed Bush plan to ease ove edu- hhild e charter eturn its opportunities public/private school and creating mor children Education and r company, in 1984 increase the number of ing conditions and incr priorities to impr education for every c nancial •The Democratic and Republicanom winner that oops in Iraq Interesting facts: ants to focus fi American tr time for teacher collabora- cation in America tion-t •Expand charter schools schools •W functions to the states •Romney took over as thega- edeployment ovide tui Interesting facts: Interesting facts: of each state wins “delegates” fr •Phased r of tion and planning •Wants to expand access to •Plans to pr to •Obama taught constitu- •Believes NCLB has support on empowering geon CEO of the Salt Lake Or on the number haul NCLB to help ograms like e magazine named ight sur state who will then vote for the winner at the and a cap •Over pre-school pr free higher educationn tional law at the University •Tim “value but states must be parents •Served as a fl nizing Committee during oops in Iraq en learn at high n Interesting facts: Air Force inter Olympics national convention (The Democratic National American tr all childr Head Start millions of students i of Chicago School ofrst Law Giuliani as Person of the allowed to develop their in the U.S. the 2002 W Convention is Aug. 25-28, and the Republican Education: levels e •Supports universal kin- state universities •Obama was the fi Year in 2001 own benchmarks” •McCain was held as a •Ran as a Libertarian for e eceived an esting facts: National Convention is Sept. 1-8) •Wants to give states mor dergarten Interesting facts: African-American to be •Giuliani r Inter prisoner of war in North president in 1988 Student opinion: •Attract and support mor exibility to d om ces and fl president of the Harvar ietnam for six years after “When it comes to a lot ,of it’s outstanding teachers and resour - •Reform NCLB •Kucinich is a veganyy honorary knighthood fr •Huckabee plays the bass V eform under Interesting facts: Student opinion: stuff the Democrats say •The Democratic and Republican candidates principals with higher identify and r •Kucinich was a copreet Law Review Queen Elizabeth II in 2002 guitar in his band, Capitol his plane was shot down eal- rst name is all Str ew up rst marriage ee hardly believable. They’ve with the most delegates win the nomination salaries performing schools •Gravel’s fi editor for the W •Obama’s father gr •Giuliani’s fi Offense •McCain has thr “I like the fact that he r esting facts: ype 2 en (one been recycling the same . I e •Reform No Child Left Inter actually Maurice Journal in Kenya while his mother was annulled after he and •Huckabee has T adopted childr izes how much money we rst son, the ed they ar arguments over and over esident ds’s fi grew up in Kansas his wife discover diabetes and lost over 100 from Bangladesh) were wasting on the W •After the two major candidates ar Behind (NCLB) •Edwar •Gravel founded several •At 31, Kucinich wasrr ee that defi nitely see Romney as a Interesting facts: ade, died in 1996 ofi t corporations were second cousins ugs, and I agr announced, citizens .will 4 vote for the pr W rst non-pr youngest person eveaajor pounds in 2004 on Dr stronger candidate because rst met Bill Clin- ds was the fi Student opinion: Student opinion: on Election Day Nov •Hillary fi •Edwar (The Democracy Founda- elected mayor of a m communities should de- he’d be able to deal ale Law Library Student opinion: Student opinion: ce: USGovinfo.about.com ton in the Y person in his family to tion, Philadelphia II, and U.S. city “I support Obama because “I like his [stances on the cide on education because with the War in Iraq and sour big issue right now in the 1970s attend college Direct Democracy) I think that he could bring “A “I like him but I haven’t issues] and what he stands the federal government help make the economy rst First Student opinion: is the War in Iraq, and I .” •Hillary is the fi at I the most change to the decided who I support yet. for. I think he’s the most shouldn’t mandate what stronger Student opinion: eason tha Although think pulling out now is ed of the candi- -Stephen Kwolek, Lady to be elected to the Student opinion: “The main r is White House. He’s very eloquent. He’s qualifi - people’s kids have to learn. e en Fuehrmeyer en irresponsible because a sophomor “I really like his views. I “I support Mike Gravel be- like Dennis Kucinich he does not have much really easy to listen to. It’s dates…His stance on abor I also like that he wanted Out of the running uesday U.S. Senate e plan. ong aa terrorist faction might take opped out T experience, he has new like his healthcar cause he has many str because he supportsa al power like what happened very easy to follow his tion is similar to my stance to abolish the Brady Bill.” •Fred Thompson (R) - dr Student opinion: opinions and plans that olina primary I think it’s the most cost views such as same-sex single-payer univers also in Afghanistan in the ideas the way he explains on the issue.” eshman –Felipe Hernandez, senior after the South Car eally think he’s e system...I elle Cerven, fr opped out last “Compared to Obama, effi cient. I r marriage, universal health health car not will work, such as his plan 1980s. [I support Giuliani] them. He’s overall very –Mar •Duncan Hunter (R) - dr n ar in Iraq.” omised she has actions against her down to earth, and he’s a care, de-criminalization of like the fact that he’s he for the W because he has pr presentable, and I think day after the Nevada caucus rmly oppos- eam, andd -Elle Kirby, junior Satur opped out Jan. 9 words, and if Hillary Clin- real person. He tells it like drugs, and fi very mainstr sure to stay the course until the he makes good points.” dson (D) - dr ess Watterson, senior •Bill Richar opped out on Jan. 3 after ton is president, women it is.” ing the war in Iraq. He wouldn’t feel the pr job is done.” –Julianne ceslike Alexander, senior •Chris Dodd (D) - dr e rights.” -Jessica Kwasniewski, seems to want what’s best from outside sour -Danny will have mor sophomore ”” the Iowa caucus Laur by illustration photo , freshman ...” opped out on Jan. 3 after -Megha Kumar for the country eshman major candidates do.ssenior •Joe Biden (D) - dr ics -Drew Mendez, fr –Caleb Kurowski, ce for bios: CNN.com/polit the Iowa caucus opped out Dec. 20 sour tes edo (R) - dr and respective campaign websi •Thomas Tancr tes source: CNN.com/politics f respective campaign websi photos with permission o

Fall 2008 Communication: Journalism Education Today • 19 Pete Souza was working on staff at the Chicago Tribune in 2005 when the photojournalist began documenting Barack Obama’s first term in the U.S. Senate. Three years later, after signing a book con- tract with Triumph Books in April, Souza had only four weeks to get The Rise of Barack Obama edited, designed, checked and printed. “The book is basically a visual documentation of the rise of his national career,” Souza told Katie Fretland in an interview for the Chicago Tribune’s Web site. The book, an insightful, behind-the-scenes look at the candidate, is available online and at bookstores.

20 • Communication: Journalism Education Today Fall 2008 The Rise Photographers, like reporters, face challenges when covering politicians, not the least of which is access to the candidates and officeholders or the staged photo-op. “I love photographing politicians,” photographer Jesse Kalisher said. “They are dynamic folks, full of energy. More than that, every nuance has the chance to tell a story. And that’s ideally what I’m after — a gesture, a glance, something which helps tell a broader story of a politician’s life.”

1. Why would journalists want to cover politics/politicians routinely? “As a photo Souza: These are men and women who make many of the decisions that affect our subject, Obama lives. I would encourage students to not necessarily just photograph national politi- was a natural. cians but to start documenting their own local politicians. Often the access is better, and no one else is covering these politicians. I’d also urge them to not rely on just the He didn’t have politician’s public events but to strive to document their lives away from the podium. any overt camera 2. What is the single biggest challenge in photographing awareness and politics/politicians routinely? went about his business as I went Souza: The biggest challenge is getting access other than the routine fabricated “photo ops.” about mine. The way he interacted 3. What’s one person or event that you’ve covered in the political arena that sticks out in your mind? What makes it with his kids was stand out? very genuine. I tried to blend Souza: I’ve had the opportunity to document both President Reagan and Sen. Obama quite extensively. For Reagan, I did it as an insider; that is, I worked for the White in and not be a House as an Official White House Photographer. So I got to see him up close and in nuisance, ….” numerous situations that weren’t open to any other photographers. When I began photographing Barack Obama in early 2005, I worked really hard to Pete Souza establish access with him since he was my “local” senator — at the time I was working for the Chicago Tribune. Now those pictures I took of him in 2005 and 2006 that no one else has, have become valuable, maybe historic, and have resulted in my book, The Rise of Barack Obama.

4. If you had one piece of advice for students considering being a photographer on a political beat, what advice would you give? PETE SOUZA is a freelance Souza: Learn issues. Learn how to deal with people. Learn to accept “no” a lot, but photographer and assistant professor of photojournalism at don’t give up. n Ohio University’s School of Visual Communication. He has worked as the national photographer for the Chicago Tribune, as a freelance photographer for National Geographic and Life magazines and as official White House photographer for President Ronald Reagan.

Fall 2008 Communication: Journalism Education Today • 21 Media from all over the United States, like David Wright of ABC national news, center, and the world crammed onto risers at Reynolds Coliseum at North Carolina State University in Raleigh to hear presidential hopeful Sen. Barack Obama address a crowd after winning the North Carolina Primary. Photo by Corey Lowenstein, The News & Observer Photo Op Excerpts by Susan Kismaric From USA Today magazine, published in New York by the Society for the Advancement of Education, Nov. 1, 1994

• In the 1800s, as photojournalism was beginning to take form, as popular values intersected with patriotism to create a folksy melange, candidates or officehold- ers were seen in the obligatory scene rife with the symbols of American culture — eating hot dogs, with or near a flag, greeting Indians. … These symbols are meant to reinforce people’s sense that the person pictured is “one of us,” a regular fellow who believes in the things we believe in, in addition to being a patriot whose civic duty calls him from on high. • Just as a politician could transform his image through canny manipulation of his appearance in a picture, a photographer could transfigure a politician merely by being present at an event. • The increased security surrounding political figures during the past 20 years has made it very difficult for photographers to gain access to them except in highly controlled situations. No longer can a cameraman move in close to capture an intimate, off-guard moment. For the most part, hordes of photog- raphers with the same assignment to “get the pic” are kept behind barricades and controlled by police or hired security personnel as they wait for an event Presidential candidate Hillary to be manufactured. Clinton speaks during a campaign • The photo opportunity, wherein the participants arrange themselves self- event Jan. 25 at consciously to be recorded by cameras, is a purposefully staged activity and Freedom Center in may have little to do with anything that actu- Rock Hill, S.C. ally transpired. Commissioned photographers Photo by Daniel Plassmann, The Herald (S.C.) encounter numerous and immense difficulties in their attempts to make meaningful photographs of politicians within this ritualized setting. • Over time, politicians wisely, then perhaps cyni- cally, learned to protect themselves from the camera and use it to their own advantage. n

22 • Communication: Journalism Education Today Fall 2008 Backstage at Cary (N.C.) High School, Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton laughs at the introduction she receives at a town hall meeting hosted by momlogic.com May 3. After her first stop in Cary, she campaigned in Wake Forest, Gastonia and Mooresville.

Sen. Barack Obama relaxes with his staff backstage On stage with former military generals, Sen. Hillary Nine days before the North Carolina primary, after a town hall meeting at the Raiford G. Trask Rodham Clinton stands out in the crowd at Methodist presidential hopeful Sen. Barack Obama checks with Coliseum on the University of North Carolina campus University in Fayetteville April 24. Later she traveled to staff about whether he is clear to go on stage from in Wilmington April 28. Later he traveled to Wilson Asheville to attend a “Solutions for America” event. a back room holding area. Volunteer Jess Owens- and concluded the first day of his two-day state visit Shiplett, 28, of Wilmington, right, and other staff and at the UNC campus in Chapel Hill, where he held an secret service people are poised to follow him. early-vote rally. Photos of the North Carolina Democratic primary campaign by Corey Lowenstein, The News & Observer

COREY LOWENSTEIN joined the staff of The News & Observer in 1996. At the time, she was the first woman in more than a decade to be a staff photographer at the Raleigh newspaper. Her work has also been published in The New York Times, Boston Globe, People Magazine, Time and Newsweek. Lowenstein has covered everything from sports and beauty pageants to “family values” rallies as well as traveling overseas to cover international stories that have touched her community. She has lived in a homeless shelter and camped on a tobacco farm for the summer. She said she believes the best part of being a photojournalist is being able to share moments that are overlooked or inaccessible to the public. Fall 2008 Communication: Journalism Education Today • 23 Photo by Jordan Nicholas

Photo by Jordan Nicholas Roadhouse Big crowds, long lines and a lot of noise were highlights of the scene at Barack Obama’s speech in Tampa, Fla., outside the St. Petersburg Times Forum. It was quite overwhelming for a first-time photographer assigned to capture visuals of a presi- dential candidate’s speech in his hometown. nce inside the forum the experience directly at me for a posed shot, which I do not changed. At the front were supporters, use. Besides that, because photographers and Oand behind them were reporters and the crowd were both situated on the base floor, other representatives of the press. Broadcast being short did not help. The cheering crowd media and photographers were situated on an blocked me from taking pictures. elevated platform behind a barricade roughly I was surprised at some of the choreogra- 20 feet from the podium where Sen. Obama phy. Staff members working on Obama’s cam- delivered his speech. paign passed out signs that looked homemade When the members of Obama’s party began but were not. They passed them out to people to talk, it was a madhouse as photographers in the stands. A couple of Obama’s signature tried to find a good spot and avoid get- “Change” posters went to the base area crowd. ting blocked by people who were in front Unfortunately I was not able to find any of the press area. However, it was fun to see Hillsborough High students, current or former, the crowd’s reactions to the powerful speech to showcase student participation. Obama gave and to take pictures of Obama Overall it was a truly great experience, speaking. It was exciting to cover such an something that I hope to partake in the near event. future. n The only stressful situation that came to me happened when I moved for a second and Stephen Solorzano, photographer another photographer moved into the space Hillsborough Senior High School, Tampa, Fla. where I had been. Also, when I started tak- (Joe Humphrey, adviser) ing crowd shots, people caught on and looked

Photo by Daniel Plassmann, The Herald (S.C.)

Photo by Daniel Plassmann, The Herald (S.C.)

24 • Communication: Journalism Education Today Fall 2008