ESU ready to debate the debate

Engage Emporia - Emporia Kansas – October 24, 2006

Yes, it’s a big deal that Emporia State University is hosting  the only debate between lieutenant governor candidates Mark Parkinson and Sen. Susan Wagle on Oct. 24. But that’s only the beginning.

Just as important are the organized debate watches that will take place at the conclusion of the event or during the week after the event. The Commission on Presidential Debates (CPD) created Debate Watches to increase voter education and participation.

“Debate Watch is a simple idea to get voters talking about the candidates and issues, not just listening. Anyone can participate regardless of age or past political involvement,” said Dr. Diana B. Carlin, Political Debate Expert and Dean of the Graduate School and International Programs and Professor of Communication Studies at the University of Kansas.

The 2006 Lt. Governor’s Forum committee is seeking interested citizens to host the watches and invite people to attend the watches. Following the debate, a facilitator will lead a group discussion regarding the issues, candidates and format.

“The goal of the Debate Watch is to provide the opportunity for students and community members to become more informed and engaged in the democratic process. By combining student and community members into small diverse group discussion, all constituents will benefit and learn from one another,” said Courtney George, Legislative Director for the Associated Student Government.

Those wanting to host a debate watch should contact Marjorie mwerly@emporia.edu for a facilitator’s guide. For those unable to watch the debate via internet or attend the debate, Werly will provide a DVD by the end of the week.

“Debate Watch groups can meet in a living room, school, community center, public library, business, church or place of worship, union hall, restaurant or wherever you can watch a television or view the debate via internet and comfortably form a circle of chairs or meet around a table after the debate to discuss,” Carlin said. “You can also meet in cyberspace. Organize a discussion with friends across the state who can’t be in the same place the day or night of a debate.”

Three area high school government teachers in Emporia, Madison and Topeka are currently organizing Debate Watches for their students to help their students become more civically engaged and aware of the issues that affect them.

After the debate, ESU Associated Student Government will hold a reception and Meet ‘N’ Greet in the Memorial Union to allow community and candidates to meet informally with representatives of student organizations from Kansas state universities, the Emporia community and Emporia State University.

The forum will be streamed live on the Internet. To view the video feed, you will need Windows Media Player. Please go to http://www.emporia.edu/debate/ for more information.

The debate starts at 7 p.m.

Last Updated July 2, 2007>