Thu, Dec 04 2008
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Published August 29, 2008 12:35 am - Dozens of Ashtabula residents celebrated a landmark moment in American history with a Thursday night party at the Ashtabula County Democrat headquarters. Obama’s run making history, residents say By MARK TODD - Staff Writer - mtodd@starbeacon.com Star Beacon ASHTABULA —Dozens of Ashtabula residents celebrated a landmark moment in American history with a Thursday night party at the Ashtabula County Democrat headquarters.
Pizza and potluck were served up to more than 100 people who gathered at the Lake Avenue location to watch Obama accept his party’s presidential nomination. Television coverage of the Democratic convention filled a wall of the big room Many in the crowd said the nomination — a first for a black American — was a moment they wanted to savor. Some believed only their children or grandchildren would witness such an event. “I didn’t think I would live to see it,” said Art Thompson of Ashtabula. “I feel he’s strongly qualified and really believe he will lead the country to new heights and create jobs.” Stephen Sicard, also of Ashtabula, was confident that Americans would some day rally around a black candidate — but maybe not so soon. “And now that day is here,” he said. Matt Butler, who helped coordinate the convention watch party, said Obama has had an galvanizing effect on Democrats young and old. “We’ve needed somebody to bring us together,” he said. Mattie Harris of Ashtabula said she found much in Obama’s platform that dovetailed with her beliefs, especially his stance on education. “He believes everyone should be able to afford to go to college,” she said. Newly retired Ashtabula school employee Chuck Spence said he warmed to Obama’s stance on issues geared to senior citizens. “They need help in this country,” he said. A woman who identified herself only as Alberta declared the evening “a historic day.” “It’s time for a change, and I’m so happy to see this day come,” she said. Jamar Parker of Ashtabula said there’s much in Obama’s background to inspire confidence and respect. “He gave up a Wall Street job to help the poor,” Parker said. “That let me know it’s not about him. It says a lot about his character. “When I was growing up, people said we’d never see a black president,” he said. “Well, times have really changed. (Obama) is living the American dream.”
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