SAYLOR3D

On a damp and drizzly Indiana day, most of the folks in the large crowd had been waiting for hours. With umbrellas, coats and jackets they endured the unpleasant weather. TV trucks, with their remote antennas telescoped above the shopping center buildings, were plentiful.

Not long after the bus arrived, Palin emerged with her son in her arms. She delivered a short speech to the crowd before entering the Borders bookstore.

Only those who have been to Borders earlier in the day to secure an arm band were allowed to enter the signing session.

The drizzle had punished enough. Umbrellas were no longer needed. Occasional cheers of “Palin, Palin, Palin,” were heard as more of the participants entered the building in an order designated by an alphabetic code on their bracelet.

News reporters, camera crew, audio and other support persons were seeking interviews with the waiting attendees. Participants were eager to broadcast their support of Palin. However, one interview subject was of special interest.

Michele Mitchell, a Sarah Palin look-a-like was the woman of the event. As word spread of her presence, reporters sought her out in the mass of people. Some recalled her visit earlier in the day when she waited in line to procure her bracelet. Many spectators mistook her for Sarah Palin.

Michele’s husband Matt, was on duty as the fire marshall at the event. After having her book autographed, the two of them were enjoying coffee in the bookstore cafe. Since the cafe is near one of the large windows, this caused quite a stir on the street outside. Many onlookers gathered by the window assuming they were seeing Palin herself. When the mistaken identity was discovered, the initial disappointment was quickly replaced with awe at the spectacular resemblance. Cameras were hastily put to use for even more photos!

Mitchell was very gracious in posing for photographs. While waiting in line, while in the store and upon exiting the store, no request for a pose was refused!