Just back from the John Kerry rally

[cmd]

Wish you all could have been there. The gym was positively packed with supporters from Stark and surrounding counties. Lots of union people, lots of enthusiasm.

John Kerry has the most electifying smile. His speech on the economy and failed Bush policies had the place rocking. If Ohio is the bellweather state; and Stark is the bellweather county, I have no doubt that we will win.

Now I have to finish the roll of film so I can send you some pictures.

Oh, I do have to add that Eric Fingerhut and our own Jeff Seemann were among those who spoke the the crowd beforehand. Both did an excellent job and could use all the support DU can send their way.

[Kukesa]

1. Kerry question, coalminersdaughter --

does Kerry come across IN PERSON differently from the way he does on TV?

I've heard so many people say they can't get excited about Kerry because what they've seen is a man with NO personality who is stilted and is an elitist snob?

What's he really like in person?

[cmd]

2. Yes, he does

For one thing, he smiles a lot. He was genuinely enjoying himself today. I never considered him a handsome man before, but he truly is. After his speech he worked the line for almost half an hour stopping to autograph anything people thrust at him, talking and listening to people. He was very approachable and charming. I wish all the ney sayers could see him in person.

Ohio's youngest delegate, a 17 year old from a small town a few miles north of here, introduced him. He spent a minute with her after his speech giving her a big hug and some personal time. I was impressed.

[Kukesa]

4. Hooray!

That's what I wanted to hear. Now I'm happy.

[Lady President]

5. Try to see him speak

I've been lucky enough to attend four Kerry rallies and he comes off much warmer in person. I was at the rally in Columbus where he stood for about an hour in the pouring rain without a raincoat or umbrella and smiled the whole time-- definitely not snobbish. I wish the television reports would have reflected the weather because there's nothing stuffy about a guy in chinos and a button-down shirt standing in the teaming rain.

If you have an opportunity to see him speak, please go. :)

[Kolesar]

3. "There's some sad characters out there chanting four more years!"

"Well I say, four more months!"

Candidate Jeff Seemann had all the great lines.

[obietiger]

6. Wish I could have been there

Glad you got to attend - saw a few people I recognized on the tv coverage