People line streets to see Obama

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) – Hundreds of people lined the streets near Ivy Tech to see if they could catch a glimpse of President Obama as he made his way both to and from campus.

Supporters as well as demonstrators gathered near the community college, where Obama continued his push for free community college.

“This is something kids now in these days pretty much don’t get a chance to see, and this is an honor to meet President Obama,” Dominique Hamilton, an Indianapolis high school student, said.

While many won’t get an actual glimpse of the president, the long odds did not discourage many of these people from trying to see him.

“We’re pretty much going to do that, chill out and see if we can’t see him,” Zen Smith, who attends Ivy Tech part-time, said. “If we can, we can, and if not, it was a good experience to have him here anyway.”

Observers saluted the Obama administration’s recognition of Ivy Tech, saying it raises the profile of Indiana’s community college system.

“I think it’s a great boost for Ivy Tech, whether one supports the President’s idea to pay for community college or not, it’s a great thing for the community college,” Rob Lawson of Noblesville said.

It was the president’s first visit to the Circle City since 2011, and those who tried to come out and see him say it’s a moment they will remember for a lifetime.

“A lot of people like me [are] just interested, respect the President regardless of who he or she is, just happy to try to get a glimpse and give him a wave,” Lawson said. “It’s not every day that the President’s motorcade drives by my office.”