08Vote Project

Greg Lemhouse talks about the city council race

Ashland’s George Kramer on the elections

Democrats Celebrate Elections at the Blue Bash

Whew! What a night

With more than 800 hits throughout the evening and some 42 unique posts, it looks like our experiment in blogging the elections was a positive experience for many. Clearly, there were a few frustrations as well, but over all, the more than 40 students participating in the project excelled beyond all expectations. It was wonderful to see the excitement on the faces of students returning after attending some of the events on election night. We learned that patience and persistence are two of the most important qualities in journalism. So much of what we do is about hurry up and wait, and more hurry up and wait. Hours of boredom, though, can lead to some great excitement.

Voices on the street

Medford Election Night

Motorists wait to vote on election night.Republicans gather to watch election results

Dems celebrate Obama win

Charlotte Duren sent in these short interviews from Democrats who watched the presidential race.

Kathleen Heritage, Rogue River: Thinks that this election is very important on the outcomes. If McCain wins, she would be very disappointed in the electorate. She is enthused and independent to work for Obama. She thinks he would bring intelligence back. “I’m surprised how many youths have been getting involved.”

Jackie Milikien, Ashland: “McCain…The WORST.” This is one of the most important elections. The youth vote made a real difference. Our elections are way too long and drawn out, from primary to main is too exausting. If McCain wins, it could be one of the worst things to happen to this country.

David and Connie Wilkerson, Ashland: David says this process has been very energizing and that he is looking forward to important change in the economy. This election is just as important as the election of 1992. Connie adds that the youth vote is extremely important.

Marc Ratner, Ashland: This election is absolutely important. He says he has been waiting 82 years for this to happen. Obama is an unusually  talented  and effective candidate and has awakened the youth to the possibilities of change. With Kerry, the youth weren’t very excited. This time their vote will really matter.

Marjorie Ratner, Ashland: The youth vote is wonderful. The internet has bridged the generation gap. We can’t afford war. The youth vote is coming in and Obama bridges the gaps. We can bring our values together.

Gary Moore, Ashland: He has been planning blue convention for three years. Fundraising has been difficult, but the convention should cover what’s needed. It turns out to be a big fundraiser- Sold Out! Seemed very excited about it. Money is still being counted, unsure total but raised enough to keep office open. Money goes to rent, utilities, printing, recruiting. Costs roughly $2,400/month and after this convention they have enough money to keep office open for a year. Help candidates actively promote new voters. Noticeable amount of more youth voters, more diversity; mainly from the Latinos. Thinks Obama is absolutely cool! Thought it was smart for an unknown candidate as Obama started out attacked winning the population areas. McCain made the wrong choices compared to Obama.  “This is the most important election, it regenerated younger population prospect of change. The youth are speaking and going in a new direction.”

Bill Gabriel, Ashland: Thinks this is the most pivotal election — by far most important election he has ever experienced. He says he is exhausted from the process but still excited about the outcome. He’s hoping now that the Senate will get to 60 Democrats. He’s not worried about Obama but more for Congress. He teaches high school and says his students are thrilled about Obama.

Tana Domecq-Davis, Jacksonville: She has worked to help keep the Democratic office stay open and has been very involved with Democratic events.  Her husband ran for Oregon Congress and she helped run his campaign. She says this election brings so much excitement after so much despair.

“ Obama or Die” — Many Democrats say this election is life or death.

Jim Faircoth from Ashland: Hopes for better days to come if Barack Obama is elected. Faircoth said, “ I’m here to celebrate the Democratic victory and hopefully be singing happy days are here again”. When asked if what he would do if McCain won, Faircoth said, he will “consider committing suicide”.

Annadale Williamson, Medford, treasurer for Jackson County Central Democratic Convention: Says the youth vote is very important, and the election is very exciting. She says that Obama can work on the economy and help the issue of healthcare.  Also she said that the youth voters should  be informed, and find out for themselves, to be well informed is crucial.

Cynthia, Medford: This election was too long of an election process. There needs to be more than two parties in the race. Best thing about this election is the youth vote. She thinks that Obama will help unite us as a people. By creating a diverse cabinet, including Republicans, he can bring us together as a country.

Blue Bash react

Democrats react to hearing the news of Obama victory Tuesday. (Maria Mazhary)