ONLINE EDITION FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 28, 2001

Opinion

Everybody is a Critic!

These days, as we leave movie houses, theaters and restaurants we rate the previous event or performance of the participants. I don't agree with every assessment, but it makes for lively conversation and sometimes even stimulating thought.

During the days following the events of Sept. 11, I would like to stick my nose into the reviewing process. My readers do not have to agree and they can let me know by regular mail or e-mail.

Here goes!

Before his speech on Thursday, Sept. 20, he received many "slings and arrows." He was said to be a poor speaker. He was said to be not confident. He was said to be wishy-washy. He also suffered from the results of a close election. After his speech the whole nation had a different opinion of George W. Bush. He spoke confidently and directly. His thoughts were clear and forthright. He was to the point and the nation felt that we truly had a president equal to the job.

Prior to the disaster Rudy had many detractors. He was thought to be hard-hearted and unfeeling. He was said to be too tough in his speech and actions. People either loved or hated Rudy. No one took the middle ground.

After the events of Sept. 11, Rudy proved to be a man of solid worth and tender emotions. His leadership during the crisis period was and is remarkable. He was a policeman. He was a fireman. He was a kind shoulder to lean on. He was a rallying point for all New Yorkers. He was the Winston Churchill we needed to get us through a horrible moment in the history of our wonderful City of New York.

The elections of Nov. 2001 are soon upon us. Let us, as voters in a democracy, review the candidates and try to see the inner man or woman in the words and deeds of the campaign. Let us look for the spark within the candidate that will someday emit great leadership and trustworthiness.

Please send replies to shgreenberg@aol.com or Stanley Greenberg, c/o Syosset/Jericho Tribune.