Obama praised during Fitch appearance

Obama at Austintown Fitch

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AUSTINTOWN — Despite his poor performance in the March primary in the Mahoning Valley, Barack Obama was treated like a conquering hero upon his return to the area.

An enthusiastic crowd of about 2,000 rose to their feet and cheered for the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee repeatedly during a town hall-style meeting today at Austintown Fitch High School.

“He is the epitome of hope and change,” said Karla Randall of Canfield, the mother of three sons. “I love his policies and his passion. He’s an example to my sons to not be afraid, be willing to take a risk and to do it with respect for God and people.”

During a question-and-answer session, Truman Burgess of Warren, a retired Lordstown General Motors worker, praised Obama for not being afraid to change his position on issues, particularly those dealing with energy.

“When change happens, you reassess,” Burgess said.

Obama was pleased with the comment saying, “That’s pretty good” three times.

For the complete story, read Wednesday’s Vindicator or vindy.com