“The leaves of memory seemed to make a mournful rustling in the dark” - Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

The seventh anniversary of 9/11 is this Thursday. Every time I think of that morning, I am transplanted back to where I was when I first heard the news. But I know I’m not the only one. Indeed, it is a rare day in history when an entire nation can individually recall exactly where they were when a tragedy occurred. Our collective memory of 9/11 will keep the tragedy of that day alive for generations to come, but it is our own personal stories that most dramatically capture the emotions we experienced when witnessing the horror. 
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By Makenzie Bowker, Editorial Intern

Whether the age was 23 or 83, the people of metro Atlanta have spoken in a recent survey conducted by Atlanta Life. Their concerns include if Barack Obama lacks experience to lead the country, if John McCain is simply too old to be sworn in, and how the next commander-in-chief is going to conduct the “war on terror,” tackle the energy crisis and rising gas prices, and reenergize the nation’s slumping economy.

Between the cacophony of controversial campaign commercials and the announcement of running mates, it’s clear the election season is just now hitting full stride. Atlanta Life wanted to break down each candidate by their history, quotes and their stance on important issues to help Atlantans decide whom to vote for in the November election. Look for a issue-by-issue breakdown of the candidates in the October print edition of Atlanta Life.
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In the June issue of Atlanta Life, Frank Gaffney of the Center for Security Policy and Alfred Webre of the Institute for Cooperation in Space debated the pressing concerns associated with the United States’ missile defense system based in Central Europe (The New Star Wars, Point-Counterpoint). Gaffney and Webre analyzed the cost, effectiveness and need of the program. In one particularly interesting exchange, the two responded to Russian criticism of the program, which has been significant and lasting.

The United States reached a deal with Poland last week on establishing the missile defense base, with 10 missile interceptors, on Polish territory. Russia has reacted with intensified opposition, and some have speculated that the timing of the deal was meant to reflect American opposition to Russia’s recent military encroaches on Georgia. The deal has far-reaching implications for much of the former Soviet satellite countries, many of whom fear a resurgent Russia. Imparticular, the deal ensures a greater commitment on the part of the United States to defend Poland.

American officials have repeatedly said that the missile defense system is designed to protect against a nuclear-armed Iran, citing evidence that the system would be ineffective against Russian artillery. The Russians, however, have made their distrust clear.

Visit our online archives to read the June Point-Counterpoint debate (pages 12-15). Simply click the magazine cover icon on the homepage.