New York

Obama, McCain Put Aside Differences in Remembrance

Last Thursday marked the seventh anniversary of the terrorist attacks on 9/11.

The two major candidates for the President of the United States put aside their differences on the anniversary to join together for a somber memorial at the site of the attacks at Ground Zero in New York City.

The Democratic candidate Barack Obama and Republican candidate John McCain briefly ceased their campaigning to show respect for the victims of the attacks on the World Trade Center Thursday morning.

However, the two appeared more patriotic than partisan on Thursday, as they were joined by McCain’s wife Cindy and New York City mayor Michael Bloomberg in a walk down to the reflecting pool memorial at Ground Zero. The two candidates were met by members of the city’s police and fire departments, both took roses which they placed on the memorial.

Both campaigns separately referred to the meeting as cordial and as they shook hands before leaving, McCain was heard saying, “All right, sir, see you soon.”

Vermont

Vermont Governor’s Race Heats Up

The race for the governor of Vermont has been gaining intensity, with all three major candidates stepping up their proposals and attacks.

Incumbent Republican Gov. Jim Douglas met Democrat Gaye Symington and Progressive candidate Anthony Pollina in two debates last Wednesday and Friday.

This year’s race is of particular interest because of the presence of third-party candidate Anthony Pollina, a veteran of Vermont politics, who some say could act as a spoiler for Vermont House Speaker Symington.

The two align closely on many issues, and analysts say they will draw voters away from one another, creating an opportunity for Douglass.

The three debated at the Tunbridge World Fair in Tunbridge, Vt. on Friday, sparring over issues ranging from economic policy to treatment of sex offenders. Symington and Douglass focused mainly on one another, as Pollina used the event to highlight what he calls the “partisan gridlock” of Vermont politics.

Gates Suggested for Canadian Border

American and Canadian authorities in Derby Line, Vt. and neighboring Stanstead, Quebec have been drawing up proposals to tighten boarder security in the small towns in order to curb illegal boarder crossings. The two towns, however, face a unique dilemma due to their close proximity.

The Derby Line library, for instance, has its front door located in Vermont, its circulation desk in Canada and its bookshelves split across the line.

For years, residents have enjoyed relative freedom in crossing the border, due in part to the complex situation.

Now, however, in the wake of the terrorist attacks seven years ago and increasing drug smuggling, authorities have developed a proposal to secure several streets, including those leading to the main door of the library.

A main facet of the proposal would be to close off three streets with electric gates, operable by remote, so that unauthorized traffic could be more closely monitored. Some residents doubt the effect of the proposed gates, saying that illegal traffic will simply occur in other, more remote areas.