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Clinton Talks OWS, and Getting 'Back to Work' at Old Orchard

Former United States President Bill Clinton signed copies of his new book at a North Shore Barnes and Noble.

Former United States President Bill Clinton Friday urged Occupy Wall Street protestors to bring together local politicians and business owners to come up with economic initiatives. Clinton discussed OWS during a brief, morning appearance at the while promoting his latest book Back to Work: Why We Need Smart Government for a Strong Economy.

"I wrote this book to try and respond to what Occupy Wall Street and these other Occupy Movements are doing," said Clinton. "I think what they need to do now is...we know what they're against but now they need to be for something."

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Several hundred people waited in line for the 8 a.m. event, some arriving as early as 4 a.m. Clinton spoke briefly with the press about his book, the potential of OWS and how the United States can get out of the current recession.

Clinton said that recessions, such as the 2008 economic crisis, usually last eight to 10 years. "We're somewhere between two-and-a-half to three years into this recession. My goal is to beat those terms. I'd like to get America back in less than five years," he told the crowd.

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Clinton said that economic betterment will only come if the United States achieves a strong private sector and a smart government.

For attendees like Carla Cenker, Clinton's visit was a reminder of more stable times.

"The fact is that the things he dealt with and the way he dealt with them were impressive and I really miss his leadership," Cenker said.

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