Post by Free Agent Fan on Apr 21, 2008 14:07:59 GMT -5
blog.washingtonpost.com/the-trail/2008/04/18/obama_we_like_beer.html
Obama: "We Like Beer"
By Shailagh Murray
ERIE, Pa. -- Sen. Barack Obama and his new best friend, Sen. Bob Casey, visited the Erie Bolt Co. today, and a good time of forging was had by all.
The plant has been in business for 95 years, far outliving the rusty, abandoned factories that were visible across the tree tops -- landmarks of Erie's long decline. The company makes bolts for commercial and military applications, according to a fact sheet distributed by the campaign.
Obama toured Erie Bolt for about 15 minutes with Harry Brown, director of business development; Russ Mollo, operations manager; and Sean Graziano, unit head for the Steelworkers. The senator from Illinois observed the bolt-making process, sans safety glasses, and posed for photos with employees, including Joe Criscione, a Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton supporter with bright blue hair.
"Impressive hair color," Obama told Criscione as he walked by. Criscione's son is a Clinton volunteer, and he was wearing an "I'm your girl" campaign button. He reluctantly conceded he would vote for Obama if his "girl" didn't win the nomination. "I'm a Democrat," Criscione said. "If Hillary didn't get it, I'd have to."
John Kosiorek, a 20-year veteran bolt maker, propped up an Obama sign as the candidate approached his work area. "I've been with him ever since the [2004] Democratic convention," Kosiorek explained. "I just like the way he talks and presents himself." His wife is an Obama campaign volunteer.
Kim Gardner, the plant's receptionist, met Obama along the route and presented him with a picture of a running horse that she said had long inspired her. She inscribed it "Sen. Obama, run strong," and was still shaking with nerves after she handed it to him.
Obama and Casey emerged from the factory to find a crowd of about 30 people had gathered across the street at the Erie Beer Co., a local wholesaler. Apparently they had been waiting all morning.
"The steel was interesting, but beer!" Obama exclaimed. The senators crossed the street. "What's selling best right now?" Obama asked the group. "Bud Light!" most people responded. "We like beer," Obama declared, gathering everyone around him for a photo with his buddy "Casey," who as usual appeared to be having the time of his life.
Obama: "We Like Beer"
By Shailagh Murray
ERIE, Pa. -- Sen. Barack Obama and his new best friend, Sen. Bob Casey, visited the Erie Bolt Co. today, and a good time of forging was had by all.
The plant has been in business for 95 years, far outliving the rusty, abandoned factories that were visible across the tree tops -- landmarks of Erie's long decline. The company makes bolts for commercial and military applications, according to a fact sheet distributed by the campaign.
Obama toured Erie Bolt for about 15 minutes with Harry Brown, director of business development; Russ Mollo, operations manager; and Sean Graziano, unit head for the Steelworkers. The senator from Illinois observed the bolt-making process, sans safety glasses, and posed for photos with employees, including Joe Criscione, a Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton supporter with bright blue hair.
"Impressive hair color," Obama told Criscione as he walked by. Criscione's son is a Clinton volunteer, and he was wearing an "I'm your girl" campaign button. He reluctantly conceded he would vote for Obama if his "girl" didn't win the nomination. "I'm a Democrat," Criscione said. "If Hillary didn't get it, I'd have to."
John Kosiorek, a 20-year veteran bolt maker, propped up an Obama sign as the candidate approached his work area. "I've been with him ever since the [2004] Democratic convention," Kosiorek explained. "I just like the way he talks and presents himself." His wife is an Obama campaign volunteer.
Kim Gardner, the plant's receptionist, met Obama along the route and presented him with a picture of a running horse that she said had long inspired her. She inscribed it "Sen. Obama, run strong," and was still shaking with nerves after she handed it to him.
Obama and Casey emerged from the factory to find a crowd of about 30 people had gathered across the street at the Erie Beer Co., a local wholesaler. Apparently they had been waiting all morning.
"The steel was interesting, but beer!" Obama exclaimed. The senators crossed the street. "What's selling best right now?" Obama asked the group. "Bud Light!" most people responded. "We like beer," Obama declared, gathering everyone around him for a photo with his buddy "Casey," who as usual appeared to be having the time of his life.
;D
