President Barack Obama has declared a major disaster in …
President Barack Obama, right, is picked-up and lifted off the ground by Scott Van Duzer, left, during an unannounced stop, Sunday, Sept. 9, 2012, in Ft. Pierce, Fla. (AP Photo/Pablo Martinez Monsivais)
Monday's powerful tornado in suburban Oklahoma City loosely …
Witnesses give a first-hand account of the tornado that ripped …
A monstrous tornado as much as a mile wide roared through the …
Advertisement
Obama gets a bear hug out of a Fla. supporter
Updated: Monday, 10 Sep 2012, 8:07 AM EDT
Published : Monday, 10 Sep 2012, 8:07 AM EDT
FORT PIERCE, Fla. (AP) — If President Barack Obama was looking for a lift in Florida, he got one from Scott Van Duzer.
The 46-year-old, six-foot-three Republican gave Obama a bear hug, raising him off the ground as Obama marveled at the man's strength — and enthusiasm.
Van Duzer owns the Big Apple Pizza and Pasta Italian Restaurant where Obama stopped on Sunday during a Florida bus swing. He also runs a foundation that helps collect blood for the ill; he has received White House commendations for his work.
As he entered, Obama admired Van Duzer's biceps, saying "Look at these guns!"
Said Obama: "The guy's just got a big heart, along with big pecs."
Of his embrace, Van Duzer said: "I was overwhelmed when I saw him."
He said Obama had his vote.
Email This
Print This
View Story on a Single PageAdvertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement