Arriving early for Obama

The line outside Gaither gym began forming two hours before Barack Obama's 1 p.m. rally at Florida A&M University, the crowd eager for a glimpse of the Democratic candidate. (Photo: by noon, the line was hundreds deep) Many seemed to still be feeling him out.

"He seems like a charismatic leader, but I think it's a little early in the process," said Juan Mestre, 48, of Tallahassee. FSU senior Lanier Echols, 21 of St. Petersburg, stood at a booth registering people to vote. "He's fresh, he's new," she said of Obama.

Students paid $10 and the general public $20 -- an entry fee reated as a campaign contribution.

This is Obama's first of three stops in Tallahassee. At 5 p.m., he heads to the home of Jay Landers for a fundraiser. Then, at 6:30, Obama will deliver the keynote address at the Leon County Democratic Party's Collins-Steele Dinner at FSU's University Center Club. The sold-out event is expected to draw 400.

Comments

Obama's staff better count the cash before leaving town, in case the FAMU admin kept a little for the house.

I waited in line here in Tampa too - thank heavens it was a bit cooler back in April.

These folks are in for an inspiring afternoon - wish I was there!

I think Obama's admin collects the money for their fundraisers, but I'm glad he has great patriots like 12:28 looking out for him.

[Stephen]

I was there!, im in the picture too, really small. It was a lot of fun, great speech. Going to the Dinner tonight too. Go Obama!

Fundraiser at Jay Landers' house? I knew he was a Dem, but didn't know he was backing Obama. Bet his neighbors there on the point weren't impressed either.

[Paul D. Harvill]

http://tallahassee.com/apps/pbcs.dll/gallery?Avis=CD&Dato=20070824&Kategori=PHOTOS03&Lopenr=708240806&Ref=PH

Above is link to Tallahassee Democrat with some great photos of the visit to Tallahassee this weekend.