CHESAPEAKE
Any promoter will tell you that a good show begins with a line around the building.
On Saturday morning, Indian River High School didn't disappoint.
The crowd had gathered for the chance to see former President Bill Clinton, who had scheduled a last-minute appearance to stump for his wife, Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton, in the final days before what has become a vital state primary.
In line, some held cell phones, some held coffee cups, some held babies, many held campaign signs. They were young, old, black, white, male, female and so on. They chatted and smiled and shuffled in place as the day warmed up.
Just before 9 a.m., the doors opened and the crowd filed into the gym.
Nearly 90 minutes later, Clinton appeared, a shock of
white, white hair bobbing in the crowd, before taking the stage and giving his trademark thumbs-up and lower-lip bite to the now electrified crowd. Dels. Lionell Spruill Sr. of Chesapeake and Johnny Joannou of Portsmouth followed him up.
With Hillary Clinton campaigning in Maine, her husband had the stage to himself.
"We're all in here together, regardless of race, gender, age," he told the crowd. Under his wife's leadership, "that's what America will be like."
Education, health care, economics, energy policy and Iraq dominated Clinton's 45-minute speech, as did the need to improve America's image in the world.
On education, Hillary Clinton would work to overturn President Bush's No Child Left Behind program and replace it with a more equitable, less punitive system, he said, winning applause.
"You could drop me out of a helicopter in Idaho, 50 miles from the nearest Democrat, and I'd get applause from the elks" for this position, he responded.
Hillary Clinton would push for universal prekindergarten programs, he said, and increase teacher pay and financial aid for college students.
She wants health care to be affordable and accessible to all, he said, regardless of medical condition or employment.
On the economic front, she would allow people who have made good-faith efforts to pay their mortgages to have rate increases frozen for five years.
Clinton said his wife believes it's vital to fund alternative energy programs. Under her leadership, a big chunk of this money would come from repealing the oil industry tax cuts of recent years.
As for Iraq, Clinton spoke of his wife's desire to bring as many troops home as possible as soon as possible, allowing the military to rebuild itself and pressing the Iraqis to make the political compromises necessary to keep their country together.
"The world's mad at us for a lot of reasons," Clinton said, including the Bush administration's positions on nuclear testing, global warming and the Geneva Conventions.
He said Hillary Clinton would stress diplomacy, using the military as a last resort, cooperating whenever she could and acting alone only when necessary.
During his talk, Clinton reached out to undecided voters, including independents and Democrats who may be leaning toward Sen. Barack Obama.
"This race comes down to what you want in a president," he said. "Hillary Clinton's passion is to empower people to solve problems."
As Clinton's speech ended, "Takin' Care of Business" by Bachman-Turner Overdrive blurted from the speakers. Moments later, his white head appeared in the crowd, flanked by two tight-lipped minders as he worked his way around the stage, stretching over heads to shake hands, ducking down to sign things. He reached the far side of the stage, edged behind a large American flag and... gone.
The crowd filed out smiling and chatting, signs still in hand.
Pondering Clinton's points on education, energy and jobs, Dorene Lake of Virginia Beach said, "These are doable things. These things are concrete."
Beverly Turner Hobbs came from Virginia Beach undecided on whom to vote for, but said she enjoyed Clinton's speech.
For her, the most important issues are the military and insurance. For two sisters who came with her, the top issues were "education" and "education."
Hobbs hasn't settled on a choice yet: She plans to see Obama in Virginia Beach today.
Matthew Jones, (757) 446-2949, matthew.jones@pilotonline.com
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Amazing...
Bill Clinton a great man?
Anyone who disagrees with you is lame or unoriginal?
Bill Clinton was well educated, but if he is so smart then why did he never figure out his job was supposed to be while in the White House? The man violated the Constitution, stomped on our rights, crippled our military, and had less control over his appetites than a teenager.
He was a power pig, just like his wife, and just like most of the people in power in this country today.
Then again, most American's don't even understand American ideology, law, and its founding documents, so it is no wonder you gush over leaders that are equally clueless.
Interesting
I love how he spouts how much Hillary wants the government to do for everyone, but, "Hillary Clinton's passion is to empower people to solve problems."
You cannot empower people if the government has its hand in everything, make up your minds Clintons...
Note
Bill Clinton was a great man. His presidency affected nearly every American in a positive way. To bash him is unoriginal and weak. The man was effective. I know the military did not like him but you cannot please everyone, can you? To FiremanFrank: Did I really just hear someone from Florida comment on our IQ's? Having lived in Florida I am rolling with laughter.
The poor don't pay taxes
Of course every liberal can say that tax breaks benefit the upperclass. Poor people don't pay taxes. Poor people don't supply jobs either. I am tired of working hard every day to hear come 2009 I will not only be paying for my healthcare but everyone elses in the country because I happen to be over the poverty line. At least when I quit my job in 2009 Hillary will give me everything I need for free and I can thank all you hard working people for letting me do nothing.
Oooh boy
We are in trouble no matter which way we turn. Take the time to check on the voting records of these people. Look at their Congressional record before making a decision.
Bill Clinton In Chesapeake
Even though I am a Republican, a visit from a former President to my old high school in Chesapeake is truly an honor. I vote Republican, but, support whoever wins. I wish everyone would see it that way.
UGGG
Hillary will remove the tax BREAK from the rich and corporations, I miss typed. She thinks the rich in this country can pay for all her programs. She thinks that it is the responsibility of the rich to pay for all the socialistic programs she envisions. In her eyes, it is NOT the responsibility of the person to take care of them self. Hillary supporters, explain where I am wrong with this thinking? Pilot, your suppose to be smart, explain Hillary's plan and how it will not raise taxes. Give numbers on her health plan, pre-K, alternative fuel, increase in teacher pay, collage for all, etc. GIVE dollar figures and how it will effect people, the rich and corporations. ASK those questions if you wish to maintain some form of journalistic integrity. You would rather delete this post then actually ask journalistic questions. FYI, I made $48,000 last year. My taxes will be raised with Hillary as prez, I am not rich. A vote for Hillary is a vote for higher taxes.
Slow Saturday
I agree with the last post. I'm here from Florida, visiting my relatives. My brother posted earlier with negative comments about Clinton. I'm very surprised at the lack of intelligence in this area. Some posts have commented on Bill Clinton being such a good speaker. Ha Ha. Well, that doesn't mean what he is saying is intelligent. I've listened to him speak many times and it was pure trash. I'm begging you people for the sake of this country....please think before you vote. This country is in a world of trouble if you put Hilary in charge.
Those who live in glass houses shouldn't cast stones
Only a very incompetent, extremely conservative right wing old man would worry about “ unborn babies”. The actual term is fetus. It's sad that people are more concerned with abortion than our soldiers dying for a useless cause. If you really were concerned about the health and wellbeing of “unborn babies” you should start voting for programs that would help single mothers in need like, health care, day care, head start and education programs. You are simply only worried about those “unborn babies” in the womb, after that you vote against everything that could help better that baby’s life. Since you’re a Reverend you should use what little influence you might have to help these women and babies in need. Remember that those who live in glass houses shouldn’t cast stones and only god has the right to judge. You of all people should not be slandering anyone's name or judging them.
Thanks For The Visit Mr Clinton
So the usual thing, pick away at the policies of the incumbent, assert yourself or spouse in this case, as the better choice among your own party. Cant just one be original? "An election is coming. Universal peace is declared and the foxes have a sincere interest in prolonging the lives of the poultry." ~T.S. Eliot Nobel prize literature 1948
And the SSA prevails....
Nice job of the Pilot cleaning up most anti-Clinton or anti-Obama posts. Welcome to the Socialist States of America. It is quite obvious that the Pilot is the socialist democratic enabler in this region due to these types of censorship. Coupled with the broadly socialist/liberal viewpoints in the "our opinion" editorials, I am cancelling your rag and finding something else. What is that other paper?
I left town
I didn't want to be in the same town with Bill Clinton here. He was a total embarrassment to our country. He was the worst president in our history. I'm a Republican, and have been keeping well informed of ALL the candidates and IF for some reason, the Democrats want Hillary (God forbid) and Obama(he has good ideas) I would pray that Obama is selected as the candidate for President and Hilary is chosen as his running mate. Our country will be in big problems with her as President. Her ideas are all socialist. I'm going to hide my money rather than have her give it to her programs. Making all of us equal financially has so many problems. First, it will eliminate the desire to work hard and try to get ahead, second those of us who have a good work ethic will have our paychecks snatched. I don't agree completely with McCain, but he is definitely miles ahead of Hilary or Obama.
Great Job by Pilot Moderator
Gee...who cleaned up all the comments by the Clinton-Mafia. Including mine. Good job Pilot Moderator. But I still liked the Spelling-Bee and making a fifth grader President.
Where is Hillary going to get the MONEY to pay for here plans?
Alternative fuel, good idea, needs to be done. Removing tax incentives will increase $/gallon.
40 million ppl w/out health care. Your payments are crazy now. Now you get to pay for these 40 million. She says she will tax the rich. Define rich.
Increase teacher salary, every candidate should have this one, I will gladly pay higher taxes for this one.
Pre-k? mom and dad, take responsibility for your young ones, Teach them something, hug them, hold them. Now is the time to mold these young minds, do not push your responsibility to someone else. Worst Idea besides actually having people think she would make a good leader. Her plans will increase taxes on a lot of people besides the rich.
Hillary fans, list things she has done that any avg senator could not do. She is below avg at best.
Welfare State Rising
Bill Clinton's wife and Barack Hussein Obama are both to the left of where the former president envisioned the economy. He speaks because she is his wife and that's all. He does not personally adhere to or want to see America become an extension of socialist Europe and run this nation's economic potential southward.
The rally was great!!!!!
I was there this afternoon and was fortunate enough to listen to President Clinton and even shook his hand when he was done. The man is a natural born public speaker. He was as charming as ever. I am also going to hear Obama in Virginia Beach tomorrow. But I left that auditorium today feeling something I had not felt in awhile concerning our government...Hopeful. In truth, either Hillary Or Obama would bring such a wonderful change over our current administration that I just can't wait for it. Hopefully, this November will bring a WELL NEEDED change. I was reading over some of the earlier posts, and it's great that so many people are so passionate about their own beliefs concerning government. But we should all feel pride as Americans that we even have the freedom to post all these thoughts on this message boards, whether we agree or not.
That's ok Bill. I am
That's ok Bill. I am working for Obama
A question for revdonalds92214
I read your comment about the murders. I have to ask how many children you have adopted to help prevent the murders? I could be wrong but I'd guess the number is zero... Adopt some children and put your position into action to save those lives... Or it too much to ask you to do?
Clinton and Obama both believe in murdering unborn babies.
Both Clinton and Obama believe in murdering unborn babies in their mother's womb; therefor neither one deserves to be president or to hold any public office whatsoever.
A true military person
Would have been trained that you show respect to the rank, no matter what person is standing in that position. I spent years in the military, and many times I saluted the rank, not the person. Your total disrespect of the Commander-In-Chief shows that you are probably a member of the Democrat party, therefore have no respect for the military or the people that serve the country. The Commander-in-Chief deserves your total dedication and respect. No matter who is filling that position. You might not agree with your leaders orders, but if you are a squared away military member, you follow them.
Restore Civil Liberties?
"There is only one party left, the Democrats, who can be trusted to restore our civil liberties, and restore the balance of power our founding fathers established."
Does this include disarming the law-abiding American public? The last Democrat(a Clinton) that was president as well as cohorts Feinstein and Schumer did their best to disarm America. The Democratic party has done their best over the last 15 years to do just such. I agree that other civil liberties have eroded, but we also had multiple airliners hijacked and flown into buildings, and the enemy is often among us and not in uniform.
People are claiming the economy is faltering and I agree. One problem is that many Americans do not have the quality of employment they once had, due to jobs being farmed out overseas. This really started during the mid to late 90's and the trend continues.
I didn't salute Clinton
Because I met him in the hangar bay of the Eisenhower (and you don't salute there). I DID shake his hand though, and he had a limp woman-like handshake.
Barack Obama & Hillary on the Same ticket
It would sure be nice to see Obama and Clinton on the same ticket so we could finally end all the divisiveness that has taken place in the last eight years. They should stop fighting each other and put the country ahead of themselves. With the both of them on the same ticket, the election would be a stroll through the park. Not likely to happen but we can always hope.
And for Rob M.: Sorry there salty but I think you should have gone to Captain's Mast for not saluting the President of the United States even if you didn’t think he was worthy. I serve and retired from the USN. Frankly, I’d made sure you got 30/30 and a Big Chicken Dinner if you pulled that crap at my command. You follow orders and the chain of command even if you dislike it. Military Discipline doesn’t allow your opinion to enter into the equation.
More good news
Survey sez: Although Hillary and Obama are locked in a close race and many of the party faithful are undecided, Democrats are happy with their candidates, while the GOP is deeply fractured and unhappy with their choices. (Much of the republican base despises McCain.) Oh happy day....
Mr. Fabulous
Evidently you were impressed enough to make not one but two comments about me in the same post, so I say we just call it even there sunshine.
A law passed in 1999 is ruining us today.
Here's a little history for you guys, when you want to catch your breath, from beating each other over the head with Billary. In 1999, Bill Clinton and the Congress reversed the Glass-Steagall Act, which was enacted during the Great Depression, to separate Banking and Investment companies. In reversing this Act, Clinton and company once again allowed banks, brokerage firms and insurance companies to merge and sell each other's products. We now have a housing crisis, a mortgage crisis, a debt crisis, an investment and banking crisis and, yes, the beginnings of what could become the Great Depression II....thanks, in part, to Bill Clinton and his supplicants. I don't want Bill Clinton, or Hillary Clinton, or any Clinton anywhere near the White House again. I don't need a woman who has to use her husband as her surrogate, or who pimps out her kid to sweet-talk super-delegates. I need a President who can stand on his own two feet, and speak his own mind.
Grey Gandalf
Great moniker and a great post. Mithrandir would be proud.
I have no problem with Bill being co-president
I like the idea that Hillary can have a capable husband giving her advice about sensitive matters both domestic and foreign. The 1990's were fantastic for me and Hampton Roads. 22 Million jobs and total employment the whole 8 years Clinton was in office. Unlike Mr. Bush, Clinton listened to the Federal Reserve Board Chairman Mr. Greenspan and enacted a tax increase combined with spending cuts that gave us the smallest government in 70 years and a surplus. So bring on Billary!
For all of you who commented
I was career military, and I retired from the USN in Dec 01. So all of you who are concerned about my career and not saluting our "leader" (said very sarcastically) do not have anything to worry about. Not saluting that clown was the least of my "offenses" during my illustrious career. And yes I retired as a red striper thank you.
John H
John H - You really should try and get your facts straight. On the other hand, Ive got some ocean front property I would like to sell you in Arizona.
Being a former US service memeber - I agree with the others. If you agree to serve you must follow orders. If you pick and choose the orders you wish to follow you do not belong in the uniform. The bottom line here is that Bush has broken the Republican party and is on the way to bankrupting the US economy with his Iraq war. It's time for smart people to fix the problems he has created.
After hearing one of his speeches on CNN in 2000 I predicted we were in for a rough 4 years. I was amazed when he was re-elected.
Go Hillary/Obama 2008!!