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October 26, 2007
Posted: 11:58 AM ET
WASHINGTON (CNN) – Some people may be wary of turning 60 years old, but judging by Hillary Clinton’s star-studded birthday party, the Democratic presidential frontrunner is embracing the milestone with open arms. Rocker Elvis Costello, musical band The Wallflowers, and comedian Billy Crystal headlined Clinton's birthday bash Thursday night in New York's Beacon Theater. (Watch Elvis Costello sing Happy Birthday) Former President Bill Clinton and daughter Chelsea were there, as was New York Gov. Eliot Spitzer, New Jersey Gov. Jon Corzine, New York Sen. Chuck Schumer and New York Rep. Charlie Rangel. (Related: Rangel: Giuliani 'embarrasses us') Clinton’s actual birthday is Friday. The former president introduced his wife on stage, declaring, "she still looks very beautiful." The presidential candidate entered the room to loud cheers and said, "I feel very blessed, especially tonight, to be here with my family…and all of you, who I consider a big extended family." (Video: CNN's Candy Crowley takes a look at what Clinton is celebrating this year.) She also took the opportunity to take a dig at former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani — the longtime New York Yankee fan who earlier this week said he was backing the Boston Red Sox in the World Series because he is a fan of the American League. "I have been a fan, and I remain a fan of the New York Yankees," Clinton said to cheers. "No changes, no looking to curry favor with anyone else." The event doubled as a $1.5 million fundraising haul with the most expensive tickets going for the Federal Election Commission maximum of $2,300. The show's "cheap seats" in the balcony cost $100. Clinton's event Thursday night was the second birthday/fundraiser she has thrown this week. On Sunday, Hollywood director Rob Reiner threw Clinton a lavish party at his home in Los Angeles and even sang "Happy Birthday, Mrs. President." But Democrats aren't the only ones noting Clinton's 60th birthday. Republican National Committee spokesman Brian Walton said Thursday, "Hillary Clinton has a long wish list for her birthday, from Washington-controlled retirement plans and government-run health care to tax increases left and right, and all the while the American taxpayers are only wishing they won’t have to pay for her $750 billion in additional spending." – CNN Ticker Producer Alexander Mooney Filed under: Hillary Clinton Rudy Giuliani
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