The Obama Presidency Witness To History From campaign to inauguration, Obama brings home message of hope. Sam Kaufman Special to the Jewish News 0 n Jan 20, I was one of the lucky individuals to witness firsthand the inauguration of Barack Obama. This emotional event held a special place for me because I devoted a considerable amount of time and energy to this election, and I felt that attending the inauguration was a great way to close out my investment in the campaign. Several months ago, I took an extend- ed leave of absence from my successful marketing agency in New York City to join the campaign in my home state of Michigan. I was inspired when I saw Barack Obama speak at the Democratic National Convention in 2004, and was attracted to his vitality and the energy of his campaign. I felt he was the best candidate, not only for the issues facing our country, but also for the concerns of the Jewish community. Barack Obama filled me with hope and an increasingly fervent desire to get involved in this election and ensure his victory. I did not want to be a spectator. I needed to be an activist. I spent five weeks working with and eventually running the Rochester field office. As one of the more Republican areas of Oakland County, Rochester was a particular challenge; however, we were able to grow our volunteer base to more than 300 people — including many former GOP members. In the process, I learned firsthand how to be a community organizer and developed many skills applicable to running my business. After witnessing the momentous vic- tory, I eagerly anticipated the inaugura- tion. Even before we won the election, Oakland County was buzzing and some had already booked accommodations in D.C. This was testament to the positive energy and feelings about the campaign. While I was initially provided with staff tickets through my work with the campaign, at the last minute, I won a drawing for very special tickets from the office of U.S Rep. Gary Peters, D-Mich., whose candidacy I also had supported while in Michigan. After navigating our way through security, my guest and I eventually wound up in a surprisingly close location directly in line with the stage. That night, we went to the Eastern Inaugural Ball at Union Station, where we got the chance to get within mere feet of President Obama (as well as fea- tured performer James Taylor). I left D.C. with a newfound outlook on our country and my life. When diverse groups of people join together to produce change, a special bond is created. Having seen the seeds of my Former Detroiter Sam Kaufman with friend Stephanie Lau efforts bear fruit, I personally feel even more empowered to make a difference. I also further understand how valuable this sense of empowerment is to our country. I have great hope that, just as it did in the campaign, Barack Obama's presi- dency will bring people together in new ways. Already, I believe that he is bringing back a sense of the possible — a belief that together we can change things for the better. An Alternative View T ScxusoT JEWELLERS / GEMOLOGISTS Detroit'• Premier Jeweller Since 1917 3001 West Big Beaver Road Troy, Michigan 800.SCHUBOT www.schubot,com A16 January 29 2009 wo major con- for these 250 prisoners and cerns of mine eliminating President Bush's are: security of "enhanced" anti-terror prac- the United States and tices I feel is a mistake of huge support of Israel. proportions. I truly fear for The political pressures our security and the future of on our new, young presi- our children and grandchil- dent, who was elected on dren. Time will tell as to the the platform of "change" correctness of the administra- and a willingness to tion's new policies. negotiate with dicta- Two accomplishments that Mickey L evin tors the likes of Iran's Bush undeniably deserves Special to the Mahmoud Ahmadinejad credit for: Jewish N ews and Venezula's Hugo • He kept our country safe Chavez, will be enor- since 9-11, which would not mous, more so than normal because of have been deemed possible to most the extremely high expectations from Americans on the morning on Sept. 12, friends and foes alike. 2001. Closing Gitmo without a place • His support of Israel was unrelent- ing and continual right up to his final days, including the venture into Gaza. George W. Bush was vocally support- ing Israel's right to self-defense and its mission till the waning days of his administration, even while pictures of dead, innocent civilians were being circulated widely and United Nations' condemnations prevailed. If America has no terror attacks for the next 4-8 years, if President Obama continues supporting Israel as his pre- decessor did and if he deals strongly with Iran and its nuclear ambitions, I will feel better about his policies and advisers. '111 Mickey Levin is a Farmington Hills resident.