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Community Corner

Obama Family Cheered by Crowds in Oak Bluffs

With daughters Sasha and Malia joining their parents on Martha's Vineyard, the Obama family vacation really got rolling Friday with a bike ride in the morning and a prime view of the Oak Bluffs fireworks that night.

Louisa Hufstader, Neighbor
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From pool reports, updated 7 p.m. Friday:


The First Family took a bike ride through the Manuel F. Correllus State Forest Friday morning and had dinner at the Oak Bluffs home of presidential advisor Valerie Jarrett, next door to the Lookout Tavern on Sea View Avenue Extension and a prime viewing spot for the annual Oak Bluffs fireworks display that evening.

As the Obamas' motorcade passed through Oak Bluffs Friday evening, crowds swarmed on the sidewalks. The motorcade passed by Flying Horses going the wrong way on a one-way street and arrived at Jarrett's house at 6:11 p.m.

As the president, First Lady Michelle Obama and their daughters Sasha and Malia entered the house, cheers erupted among the crowds of people who were gathered at homes nearby.

The house is traditional Vineyard style with cedar shingles and a front porch. It faces the water. Secret Service agents were fanned out across the lawn. Marvin Nicholson was standing on the porch with some other aides. 

Earlier Friday:

Across the street from the West Tisbury School, a small group of onlookers were screened before being allowed to stay. At a few minutes after 11 a.m., Sasha Obama and her mother rode by the press pool and onlookers, followed a few minutes later by President Obama and Malia.

First Lady Michelle Obama wore white capris and a light blue tank top; Sasha had on florescent green shorts, pink sneakers and a pink helmet.

The president was in a blue short-sleeve polo shirt and khaki shorts. Malia wore orange shorts and a blue T-shirt. 

All four of them had on helmets. They were trailed by Secret Service agents on bikes. Several Suburbans in the motorcade then pulled onto the trail to follow.

As Obama passed the group near West Tisbury School, he smiled, and said, "Hi guys! Nice day, huh? Gorgeous!"

A reporter asked if he was having a good time and he said, "Having a great time as always." 

Check back with Martha's Vineyard Patch for more about the Obama family visit. To receive email updates, follow our Government & Politics group. 

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