The surrogate
It begins with a woman who yearns for a baby and another who is willing and able to give her one. You can imagine the motives of the prospective parents. But what about the woman willing to carry a baby, give birth and then walk away?
Friday Night Rewind It doesn't matter which team you cheer for. We've got video previews of every high school football program in Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco and Hernando County.
CLEARWATER — Many of them won't be able to cast their first vote for president until 2016, but eighth-graders from St. Cecelia Interparochial School are hyped for this year's election.
Standing on their toes to catch a glimpse of Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin, 53 students were at Coachman Park on Monday with their history teachers to hear the GOP vice presidential candidate.
Bobby Ronacher, 13, said he was impressed by Palin's speech.
"I like how she pointed out all the specific details about things she and McCain are planning on doing," said Bobby, of Dunedin.
Plus, "Palin's a hockey mom and I play hockey," he said with a smile.
Bobby and his American history classmates have been learning about elections this fall. They've compared the candidates, researched the issues and will soon hold a mock election.
Most of the students said they were for McCain-Palin all the way, as are their parents. Student Hala Daou, 13, said she thinks Palin has what it takes to lead.
"I just feel like she stands for something other than just what people want to hear. She has her own opinions and isn't afraid of what people think," said Hala, of Belleair Beach.
Though Hala said Palin is a role model for young women, she is still deciding who will get her vote.
"I want to think about it before I decide," she said.
Teacher Marcia Auerbach said the rally — held just 2 miles from the school — was an opportunity her students may not have again.
"It's an historic moment," Auerbach said. "It's history they can tell their children and their grandchildren about someday."
Marlon Lascano, who busied himself taking pictures to document the visit, emerged from the crowd with a special memento: Palin's autograph.
Marlon, 13, said it would never end up on eBay.
"No way. I'm keeping this forever."
Rita Farlow can be reached at farlow@sptimes.com or (727) 445-4162.
[Last modified: Oct 09, 2008 03:42 PM]
Comments on this article
by JT
Oct 9, 2008 3:42 PM
Easy there comrade those parents may work too much, be too productive or exceptional risk takers so lets not get too aggressive with the Marxism here. The first GOP female VP nominee is historically significant. An obama speech, yes, know thy enemy.
by Bob
Oct 8, 2008 4:43 PM
Like Erin, wish I had the opportunity to do this when I was in school.
Unlike Chris, I don't consider a school that consistently produces award winning scholars with a sense of values an embarassment.
by Geraldine was History
Oct 7, 2008 4:47 PM
how is it historic?
by Erin
Oct 7, 2008 3:41 PM
I wish when I was a student at SCS we had this type of opportunity. Regardless of what party, it is a unique opportunity for Clearwater to be considered important in politics.
by Chris
Oct 7, 2008 12:25 PM
I wonder if the school will take the kids to a Obama speech. It's no surprise most of the kids are for McCain/Palin they are the product of parents who have too much money & don't care about anyone except themselves.St.Cecelia's is a embarrassment.
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