WASILLA, Alaska — More than a thousand people showed up Friday for Gov. Sarah Palin's annual picnic held in her hometown of Wasilla. Palin, who is resigning and leaves office on Sunday, used the occasion to sign autographs and hand out hot dogs.
The governor – dressed casually in blue jeans and a red sweat shirt that read "Once a patriot, always a patriot" – was mobbed by well-wishers who offered up babies, books, calendars, skateboards and even their hands for autographs. Several longtime picnic-goers said this year's picnic crowd dwarfed last year's.
Fred Kostrick, an 84-year-old World War II veteran from Michigan who attended the event, said he appreciated Palin's support of the military.
"I think she's one hell of a lady," he said. "She's tough, she stands her ground and she's taken a lot of guff – more than I could."
Wes Hammerick of Big Lake, Alaska, relayed his admiration for the governor and his dreams for the future in song.
"In 2012, I'll give you a hint: Alaska's pit bull will be our president," he sang in a tune titled "North to the Future."
At the end of the song, Hammerick shouted: "Sarah Palin for president!"