Obama's Young Supporter

shared by Janet Gaffney

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Before she graduated from Sidwell Friends School in Washington, D.C., this past spring Alexa Milroy applied for admission to several colleges. Her favorite, St. Mary's College in St. Mary's City, Maryland, did not accept her because the small college was filled for the fall term. However, they informed her that they would be glad to have her as a student beginning in January 2008.

Instead of lounging around her Silver Spring, Maryland home or hanging out with friends, the active 18 year old decided to spend her time doing volunteer work. Arrangements were made for Alexa to travel to Manchester, Iowa, almost 1000 miles from home, to work for the Barack Obama presidential campaign. She was not a complete stranger in Manchester, since both her parents were raised there, and where three grandparents live, along with uncles, aunts, and cousins.

Fall in Northeast Iowa is beautiful. So is winter -- especially if you like snow and cold weather. Alexa found herself spending long days in the fall and early winter, going from door to door in all kinds of weather, explaining Sen. Obama's platform and asking for support for him, making countless phone calls, and attending meetings and events for him. Sen. Obama came to this town of 5200+ people twice during his campaign, and Alexa played a big role in preparing for his appearances.

Alexa's parents, Kevin and Mary Gaffney Milroy, and her older sister, Bethany, drove to Manchester to be with Alexa and other family members for Christmas. Alexa could have ridden back home with them. Instead, she chose to stay until after the Iowa Caucuses on January 3, where Sen. Obama scored a big victory over his opponents. Alexa worked until the last minute for Sen. Obama and then flew back home the next day to get ready to begin her college career. She will undoubtedly spend some of her free time this coming year working for Sen. Obama if he continues to be a candidate for President of the United States.

Alexa's family, teachers, and friends are very proud of her.

Submitted by Alexa's grandmother:

Janet Gaffney

124 W. Howard St.

Manchester, IA 52057

Tel. (563) 927-2531

submitted: 1/6/2008