WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Congressman John P. Murtha (PA-12) passed away peacefully this afternoon, Feb. 8, at 1:18 p.m. at Virginia Hospital Center in Arlington, Va. At his bedside was his family.
Murtha, 77, was Chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense.
First elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in February of 1974, Murtha dedicated his life to serving his country both in the military and in the halls of Congress. A former Marine, he became the first Vietnam War combat Veteran elected to the U.S. Congress.
More From SceneInPA.com »
Recent SceneInPA Blog Post
Speech Writing: How To Write A Good One?
Speech writing is in lots of ways similar writing a paper, apart from that there is no penalty for spelling and punctuation mistakes. You should not try to write words in your speech that you are not relaxed pronouncing or don't know the meaning of because it can lead to a less fluently delivered speech.To be able to write a high-quality speech is a lot like making a good cake. Having the right elements is key for it's success. Every speech writer should follow these simple 4 steps to confirm you can deliver a successful speech.Step 1Start with the most significant idea/point on your outline. Consider HOW you can give details (show, tell) to your listeners in the most effective way for them to easily understand it. Ask yourself:  How do I need to tailor my information to meet Joe's needs? For example, do you tell personal stories illustrating your main points? This is a very powerful technique.Step 2Note down what you'd say as if you were talking directly to them. If it helps, say everything out loud before you write and/or use a recorder. After you've finished, take notes.You do not have to write absolutely everything you're going to say but you do need to write the series of ideas to guarantee they are rational and easily pursued. Bear in mind too, to explain or exemplify your point from your research.Step 3 Check the 'tone' of your language. Is it right for the event, subject matter and your audience? Check the length of your sentences. If they're too lengthy or complex you can lose your listeners. Have you selected words everybody will understand?'There are 5 cent words and $5.00 words. Why use a $5.00 one when a 5 cent one tells it better?'Example: He 'spat' = 5 cents. He 'expectorated' = $5.00 Read what you've written out loud. If it flows naturally carry on the process with your next main idea. If it doesn't, rework. Step 4Between each of your major ideas you have to to give a alleyway. This links them for your listeners. The clearer the path, the easier it is to make the switch from one idea to the next. If your speech contains more than three main ideas and each is building on the last, then consider using a 'catch-up' or summary as part of your transitions.If you are in a real hurry you can also buy speech that is custom written according to your specifications and delivered in 24 hours.