CONVENTION HIGHLIGHTS.

Byline: Associated Press

Thursday's events on the presidential campaign trail:

THE CANDIDATES

Bob Dole: Described himself as ``the most optimistic man in America'' and a link to the nation's past as he accepted the Republican presidential nomination. Dole offered himself as a man ``tested by adversity, made sensitive by hardship,'' and he vowed a return to values of faith and trust. ``Age has its advantages,'' the 73-year-old nominee said. ``Let me be the bridge to an America that only the unknowing call myth. Let me be the bridge to a time of tranquillity, faith and confidence in action. To those who say it was never so, that America has not been better, I say, you're wrong and I know because I was there. I have seen it.''

Jack Kemp: Formally accepted the vice presidential nomination by declaring: ``Our goal is not just to win, but to be worthy of winning.'' Kemp put the Democratic Party on notice that Republicans would not cede a single vote. ``Our appeal of boundless opportunity crosses every barrier of geography, race and belief,'' he said. ``We may not get every vote, but we will speak to every heart. In word and action, we will represent our entire American family.''

THE DELEGATES SPEAK

``I think what was good was they took (last) week and let all the issues be aired, and after they got all that wrapped up, they moved to the second part, the convention, which was Bob Dole launching his campaign. I'm very proud of the way they've done it.'' Bernard Jackvony of East Greenwich, R.I.

``If Bob Dole runs his fall campaign as well as this convention, I have no doubt he'll beat Bill Clinton.'' Susan Slade of Groton, Mass., who had a positive attitude despite being at the zoo when the power went out, stranding her on the monorail for three hours, and tripping on a curb a few days later, breaking her arm in two places.

DOLE AND KEMP STOPS TODAY

Republican National Committee organizational meeting in San Diego, 9:30-10 a.m. PDT.

Dole-Kemp '96 ``Kick-Off Rally'' in San Diego from 10:15-11 a.m. PDT.

Rally in Denver, 3:35-4:50 PDT

CAPTION(S):

Photo

Photo: Majority Leader Trent Lott, left, and Singing Senato rs Larry Craig, John Ashcroft and Jim Jefford perform Thursday.

Associated Press