1.  The purpose of an editorial/commentary is to explain, persuade, warn, criticize, entertain, praise or answer. What do you think is the purpose of Ms. Zito's editorial? Explain your answer.

2.  Is the 150th anniversary of Lincoln's Gettysburg Address an important event for the current President of the United States to attend?  Explain your answer.

3.  Is Ms. Zito right in criticizing President Obama for declining to attend the commemoration (and without giving a reason), or does she go too far in her rebuke?  Explain your answer.