This election day, when Democrats and Republicans have done everything they can and all that is left to do is sit back and watch, it's good to have some people to sit with.
That's why on Tuesday, various clubs at UB will be hosting events for those who wish to experience the excitement of what will be a historical cultural and political event: the Nov. 4 presidential election.
"It's a great way to watch the results with as many other Republicans as possible," said Brad Latone, president of the College Republicans.
According to Latone, the College Republicans will be viewing the results at the Buffalo Niagara Marriott on Millersport Highway, an event hosted by the Erie County Republican Committee. Attendees will watch the progress on several TVs with all different news stations.
Black Student Union (BSU) will be hosting its own Election Day party at Goodyear Hall, according to Laura Williams, secretary of BSU. The club has been working since the beginning of the semester to encourage students to register and to get educated and stay informed about both candidates.
"We have been watching the debates as a club," Williams said. "On Nov. 4, we will have one big screen with multiple channels and food for anyone who comes."
As the time to choose approaches, Williams is concerned with the swelling excitement of the young voter demographic.
"Young people could have a big impact in this election," Williams said. "What we don't want is all the young people making a lot of hype about the election and then not even voting when the time comes."
Joe Larkin, a senior business major, has decided not to vote in the upcoming election due to the effect of the Electoral College.
"I think there should be a popular vote, because whether I vote or not, New York is going to go Democratic," Larkin said. "I will watch the polls though, mainly at night when it starts coming to a close."
The College Democrats will also be gathering on Nov. 4 at the Erie County Democrat Headquarters, according to Nicholas Orrange, president of the club.
"If Obama wins, we are thinking of putting together an event with other Democratic groups in the area: Canisius, Niagara, etc." Orrange said.
On the right wing, the College Republicans also have a plan of celebration if their party leader becomes the nation's next president.
"If McCain gets elected, some of us were thinking about actually going to the inauguration," Latone said. "It would be a great chance to watch history."
In addition to all of these viewing options, those who decide to attend the Bulls home game on Tuesday night will be provided with election results as they happen. According to the UB athletics Web site, Channel 2 personality Kevin O'Neil will be keeping the crowd posted on the video board.
For Democrats, Republicans, and Independents, there are gatherings around campus that one can join to watch the event. Even those who choose to watch the results from their home TV will be watching history in the making.
Places to catch all of the action:
Black Student Union: Goodyear Hall
College Democrats: Erie County Democrat Headquarters; e-mail norrange@buffalo.edu
College Republicans: Buffalo Niagara Marriott; e-mail bmlatone@buffalo.edu
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
