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Sam Penrod ReportingControversial filmmaker Michael Moore's scheduled appearance at UVSC continues to be the talk of the town. And for those who want an opposing viewpoint brought to the campus, some relief for them is on the way.
Last week UVSC's administration told the student council to find a speaker to offer some balance to Michael Moore. Today UVSC announced that it is in final negotiations with two major conservative speakers.
It appears the two possibilities are either Sean Hannity or Michael Reagan. And UVSC is trying to finalize a deal with one of them. But the whole Michael Moore appearance at UVSC has everyone talking about 'free speech.'
Michael Moore's speech next month at UVSC is bringing out the emotions of students and the community. From excited, to mad, worried and downright furious, it suddenly seems to be what everyone is talking about.
Trent Bates, UVSC Student: "I think a lot of local people are making a big deal about it, I've read some of the comments, they say they don't think the youth from the county shouldn't be taught this kind of stuff. We're not the youth of the county, we're college students."
On campus, many students don't seem to care if Moore speaks, but they are upset it's not a free speech. $40,000 from student fees will pay for Moore's visit.
Now the student government plans to bring a conservative speaker on campus. But while those details are being finalized, a petition drive continues to oust the student leaders who booked Moore.
And today that led to an impromptu debate that almost got out of hand. It was captured by student journalists who say, if nothing else, everyone on campus is talking about the first amendment.
Emily Hibbert, UVSC Net News: "I think it's raised a lot of student awareness, to actually have a say and have their voice heard. That's what I heard a lot today at the rally -- we're getting our voice heard, I want my voice heard, I want my opinion to be heard -- and I think it's been great for our campus in that sense."
Tomorrow at noon, several students plan to stage an anti-Moore rally on campus, so even with a conservative speaker on the way, Michael Moore's invite still has students here speaking out against him.
