The West

Tim Knopp
Tigard, OR

It is an honor to be chosen to represent the 2nd Congressional district at the Republican National Convention. Four things come to mind as I am in the midst of this exciting convention. First, that God has truly blessed our nation and my family. Second, I miss my wife and son and wish they could be here with me. Third, that our country is the greatest nation on Earth. Fourth, that our Party, the Republican Party is the party of principle and conviction.

We must maintain our principles and our platform to continue to be a great party, while respecting those who disagree.

The most moving speeches were given by Nancy Reagan and the young woman who was a victim of sexual assault. Both women are trying to deal with trying circumstances and have the courage to share them with the nation in order to help others. These women are truly two of America's finest and it was an honor to hear them in person as they shared from their hearts to heal their souls.

Thank you for the opportunity to share in making history. This will be one of the most successful conventions in Republican history.

Judy Pennycook
Monterrey, CA

It was much different four years ago in Houston. Then, as an ‘honored guest,' I was seated high in the stands where the speakers seemed to stream to and from the podium, like so many ants. The excitement, too, seemed less intense, less contagious...and the speeches lower.

In San Diego, I feel more connected in many ways. As a delegate with the California delegation, I am seated close to the podium, where the electricity pulses through the ranks. The look of the convention this time is also different--there's more of a sense of diversity--of family.

For me, the family here is not only the Grand Old Party, gathered under its ‘Big Tent,' but my immediate family as well. This time, I am sharing the excitement with my husband, my 16 year old son, and his friend. And exciting it is!

Never before have I attended an event more uplifting, more positive and more filled with stirring enthusiasm than this one.

The issues seem clear. Do we want a future of more government, higher taxes and a weaker America? Republicans say no. And they say it eloquently. Colin Powell's stirring story of humble beginnings to true heroism speaks speaks loudly of the need for a strong America, one that provides opportunities for all its citizens in an example to the world. Powell's speech also spoke to a party large enough and inclusive enough to bring divergent views under its big tent.

Susan Molinari may have spoken the loudest to me personally. The room was unusually quiet, the people unusually still as she spoke. She confirmed what I already knew--Bob Dole's biggest weakness is his modesty. She described a Bob Dole of true character, a man of leadership, honesty, judgement and credibility. She described a man of compassion, caring and loving. She described a man that we can trust. She described Bob Dole, the next President of the United States.

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