The area where I live is buzzing with talk about President Obama's visit this weekend. He has decided his 5th vacation since taking office will be a weekend stay at Asheville's famous Grove Park Inn.
I wish I could take 5 vacations in less than 2 years, but I digress. Why Asheville? The Asheville Citizen-Times reports:
Political experts said Wednesday that at least a little bit of calculation goes into almost every public move a president makes.
Obama could vacation anywhere he wants. He could tap his wealthiest supporter and relax at a compound well out of reach of news cameras and regular people.
The fact that he isn't staying somewhere strictly exclusive says a lot about how the nation feels right now, Knotts said.
"There is a lot going on right now in terms of anger with some parts of corporate America and the excesses and bailouts," he said.
"He probably doesn't want to vacation at the type of place only those folks can afford to vacation."
And also says:
Kohn said the area's attractions and restful pace are probably the driving forces in Obama's decision.
But he didn't downplay the importance of the Tar Heel State to the Obama administration, noting several visits by the president, first lady and Vice President Joe Biden.
"He has made North Carolina a battleground state, politically," Kohn said.
And then there are the disruptions to daily life in the mountains:
Plans for hot air balloon rides at RiverLink's Earth Day Picnic are grounded because of the planned visit of President Barack Obama.
Have a great visit, Mr. President. Western North Carolina is a beautiful place, worth anyone's time and effort to explore.
Interesting choice!!
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