The candidates for Undergraduate Student Government president and vice president made themselves available to discuss issues and concerns with anybody walking through East Halls last night

Many candidates, however, were disappointed in the response. Instead of questions and comments, the candidates received blank stares and puzzled looks. Few students stopped to inquire about the elections.

The program was scheduled to provide the candidates with an opportunity to publicize their tickets and platforms before next week's election. The program, "Meet the Candidates," was the first exposure many East Halls residents had to the USG elections.

Despite the candidates' efforts to attract attention with colorful fliers and signs, many students walked by without seeming to notice.

Lollipops were the most successful way of seducing passersby. Andy Cassel, campaign manager for Presidential Candidate Matt Rokita and his running mate Sushil Nanavati, sat at a table piled high with lollipops, which he was taping to fliers. "People don't like paper, but they like candy," Cassel said.

"Someone gave me a lollipop — I think I'll vote for them," said Billy Leonard (freshman-business), who was on his way to dinner.

Other candidates handed out informative fliers to spark student interest. Claudia Lum, running mate of Presidential Candidate Robert Michaels, noted the success of their campaign slogan in attracting attention.

The slogan, "Let us drink in peace," has been plastered on bulletin boards across campus.

"It has drawn students to want to find out more about us," said Lum.

One member of the campaign committee for the John Linde/Nathan Murphy ticket wore two huge signs displaying facts about the candidates to catch the eyes of passing students.

Amanda Hudnall, running for vice president with Presidential Candidate Justin Zartman, felt the event had a positive impact. She said it was a good way to get candidates' names and issues out to students.

Presidential Candidate Terry Burke and his running mate Benjamin Gerald, as well as Vice Presidential Candidate Tom Murtaugh, expressed similar opinions. Candidates for the two campaigns milled around the commons, meeting with students and explaining their election platforms.

In response to poor voter turnout for last year's election, candidates are working hard to spread publicity. Becky Werner, USG publicity commissioner, emphasized the landmark strides being made to publicize the candidates.

"Voting will be available online for the first time this year and candidate debates will be televised on CNET," Werner said.

The program, which will air this weekend, will be the first televised debate in the history of the election.

Werner said she expects the new online voting system to increase the amount of students who vote for USG president and vice president. It will be more convenient for students to mark their ballots, she said.

The candidates will be making many more public appearances to answer student questions and comments about their campaign platforms. They will be outside the Student Book Store, 330 E. College Ave., all day Friday and Monday.