Gere Hosts Biden for Hall Fundraiser at Bedford Post

It was a hot day for the Bedford police working with the secret service detail at the Bedford Post Inn on Route 22, who waited almost two hours for the arrival of Vice President Joe Biden. Traffic was allowed to pass until about 12:15 p.m., when the road was secured for the V.P.'s arrival.

Biden arrived to campaign for Rep. John Hall (D-NY19) for an intimate luncheon hosted by a small committee of Hall supporters including Richard Gere and his wife, Carey Lowell, who own the Bedford Post, as well as Jayni and Chevy Chase and Robert Kennedy, Jr.

Rep. Hall is the incumbent in the race for the 19th Congressional District. Republican challengers include Mt. Kisco opthamologist Dr. Nan Hayworth. Hall was first elected to Congress in 2006 by defeating Sue Kelley and again in 2008, when he ran against Kieran Lalor.

According to guests who attended the event, it was oversold, and a financial success for Hall.

Waccabuc resident MaryAnn Petrilena and her husband Jonathan Wiesner were on the host committee; Petrilena said it was a thrill to be there.

"I find that Hall listens to his constituents, and he is accessible. He represents what many of us think is the right direction," she said. Hall spoke about his involvement on the Veterans Affairs Subcommittee, she said, and his support for those who serve in the military upon their return home.

Gere welcomed guests, and introduced John Hall. After his remarks, Hall introduced Biden, who spoke about the Obama administration's accomplishments. He also mentioned the challenges the administration faced coming into office, said Petrilena.

Traffic was reopened mid-afternoon when the event let out at approximately 2:30 p.m.