The debate over health care reform that is sweeping the nation came to Valparaiso on Wednesday night as hundreds of residents gathered near the Porter County Courthouse.
Supporters of the reform bill had organized a rally and candlelight vigil, but were outnumbered more than 2-1 by opponents.
The counter-protest people had more numbers initially, and chanted while waving American flags. Some took to vehicles, honking while holding large flags outside the windows. The courthouse side sang protest songs using a public address system.
One group outside opposed what they saw as a government takeover of the health-care system, about four times as many as the other group of retired steel workers and supporters of universal health care.
"How can you guys be sure this isn't going to explode into a new problem that we can't pay for?"
Visclosky said the attendance was promising and the energy refreshing.
"I'm pleased with the turnout. Too often people don't turn out for public debate, whether we're all going to agree or not," Visclosky said. "It's great to see such interest, and the apathy I saw five years ago is gone."
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Where: Woodland Park
2100 Willowland Rd
Portage, In
Woodland Park is located 1½ miles north of Willowcreek Middle School on the west side of Willowcreek Rd. between the Indiana Toll Road (I-80/90) on the south and I-94 on the north. Scheduled speakers include Indiana State Senator (District 29) Mike Delph, who plans to reintroduce legislation in the Indiana Senate on immigration reform that follows Arizona's lead; NWIPs member Shawn Olson, who is running for Indiana State Senator from District 4; Emery McClendon, who was named Americans For Prosperity Rightonline Activist of the Year for 2010; Cheree Calabro of the Indiana Federation for Immigration Reform & Enforcement (IFIRE); Christian businessman and author Dr. Jerry Kaifetz; and conservative columnist Martin Henrichs. Door prizes will be awarded throughout the evening. Suggested donation: $10.00 (children 12 and under free).
