Bill Clinton wows Valley Dems, celebrities at private fundraiser in Canfield tonight

CANFIELD

Former President Bill Clinton raised money tonight for the presidential campaign of his wife, Hillary, during an event that left the normally talkative Mahoning County Democratic Party Chairman David Betras almost speechless.

“Oh, what an event,” Betras said after the fundraiser at the Zoldan family house in Canfield. “I can’t even describe it. To have so many people from the Mahoning Valley in the same room as Bill Clinton is amazing. To have that group of leaders in one room, the positive energy, I can’t describe it.”

Clinton spoke for about 25 minutes to a crowd of about 200.

The event raised about $400,000 to $600,000 for Hillary Clinton’s campaign.

Clinton touted the candidacy of his wife, the Democratic presidential frontrunner, pointing to her experience as secretary of state and as a U.S. senator, according to those at the event.

Actor Ed O’Neill and former lightweight boxing champion Ray “Boom Boom” Mancini, both Youngstown natives, were at the event. Also, Youngstown State University President Jim Tressel was there.

Also in attendance were former football legend Jim Brown, singer Mary Wilson of the Supremes, and 2006 Heisman Trophy winner Troy Smith.

The Clinton campaign didn’t permit the media to attend the event.

For the complete story, read Friday’s Vindicator and Vindy.com