Purdue University - Debris Yearbook (West Lafayette, IN)

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Exercising Their Rights In a heated presidential campaign, students decide to get involved he 1988 Presidential Race brought controversy and decision making into the lives of the public and Purdue students The ability to elect our country's leaders is a privilege that many people hold in high regard, college students being no exception. Vice-President George Bush and Massachusetts Governor Michael Dukakis campaigned, debated, and argued their ways into our homes, our newspapers, and our conscience. Students spent time and energy discussing pros and cons related to each candidate and hashed out personality traits that they believed made the most qualified man to succeed President Reagan Some students became more involved with the presidential race and local elections than others. Actively campaigning, leading discussions, and merely casting votes were all ways that students directly contributed to the elections. It was said that this campaign was like no other in the history of campaign styles. Issues were lost in a type of campaigning that resembled mud-slinging. Much of the public believed that both candidates spent nearly fifty percent of their campaign time attacking the other candidate and the other fifty percent discussing issues. Each candidate spent time trying to create images of themselves that would appeal to the diversity of the American voters. Early in b y R O the race Bush spent time justifying the competence of his running mate. Dan Quayle. while Dukakis was occupied with attempts to make himself appear more personable and likeable. Issues on education, abortion, job opportunities. taxes, defense spending, and other controversial topics were covered in debates and news conferences Both candidates visited campuses in attempt to appeal to the younger voters and to discuss issues that pertained to the students. Dukakis was popular with students he visited because he gave the students chances to voice opinions and ask questions. Experts believed that students were also attracted to the Bush-Quayle ticket because of a perceived sense of similarity due to Quayle being younger than Dukakis and Bentsen. Campaigning was done up to the last minute with the candidates attempting to gain recognition and votes. On campus, professors said it was no surprise, referring to the Republican defeat over the Dukaksi-Bentsen ticket. Results began pouring in early as Bush took many states previewing the victory that would not be recognized until nearly one hour after the polls closed in California. Bush praised Reagan and stated he believed that the President was a strong force throughout the Republicans campaign. Quayle became the first member of the baby-boom to be elected to a B Y N S nationwide office marking another novelty of the '88 election. Bush quickly recognized that he would do his best to work well with the newly elected Congress which is controlled by the Democrats. The Republican win gave the GOP control of the White House for the third straight term. The GOP won in Washington but the Democratic party seized the governor seat in Indiana with Evan Bayh defeating Lieutenant Governor John Mutz by a considerable margin. Bayh stressed the importance of his win for the Democrats during his acceptance speech but also stated that it was time for the republicans and democrats to come together for the benefit of the state of Indiana. The campaign for governor was another race that followed the format of the presidential election style concentrating on negative campaigning instead of making the issues clear to the public. Despite the negative campaigning and unclear issues the voters managed to elect the candidates who we hope will do the best job for the welfare of our local and national governments and in turn will make a better America. The students concern and direct participation is a clear indicator of the motivation and desire to improve our government and ways of life which should be an attribute to hold in high regard and with much pride. C 0 T T 27 Election

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The ease of votir»g «s illustrated by the simplicity of an official ballot Newly elected Vice-President Dan Ouayte and Prcsi-Senator Richard lugor appeals to students and faculty pent George Bush celebrate their victory with onthu-during a campaign visit to Purdue siasm 26 Election

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28 Convocations Smg ng Be Slrtl My Beating Heart, Sting begins an outstanding show to an almost full house at Elliot Hail of Music. Helping out with background vocals. R ck Nielson of Cheap Trick tended some comedic rountmos throughout the entire Cheap Tnck set. A Bit of Everything From opera to rock-n-roll, entertainers shows are hot on campus ntertainment was found in all different aspects. Between the Student Concert Committee and Purdue Convocations, students and the greater Lafayette area were treated to some of the most popular and talented artists in the entertainment industry. It was a successful year for Purdue Convocations, the diversity of entertainment made certain that there was something for everyone. From the opera. La Traviata to the comedic antics of Second City, along with others including, the Peking Acrobats, the music of The Empire Brass, and Neil Simon s comedy drama Broadway Bound. campus was exposed to a wide range of choices and cultures. The Student Concert Committee once again heard complaints from disgruntled students about the lack of talented performers that the university cannotattract. They put students in a frenzy when it was announced that Sting would perform at Elliot Hall of Music. He was beginning a world wide tour to promote his new album. . .. Nothing Like the Sun. With muted lights illuminating the stage. Sting captured the audience with his sophisticated rock style with a definite jazz influence. His band was impressive with the likes of Brandon Marsalis on sax. For his encore. Sting asked the packed house what song they wanted to hear, in unison, the entire Hall of Music screamed. Roxanne! He then began to play Message in a Bottle. On their feet, the crowd brought the performer out for a second encore, and to the delight of the crowd, and with the help of only an acoustic guitar. Sting performed Roxanne. From the beginning. Sting had the crowd in his