President Obama and Sasha steer the boat on a tour of St. Andrews Bay in Panama City, Florida.
The Obamas’ private family vacation to Panama City, Florida over the weekend exemplified the president’s public message: “To the people here in the Gulf, we are going to be standing by your side. And to Americans all across the country, come on down and visit.”
President Obama, first lady Michelle and daughter Sasha spent the trip touring the area and meeting the locals.
While oil from the recent spill may no longer be flowing into the Gulf, Obama remains committed to recovery efforts in the region, he said at a roundtable discussion with business owners, officials, Florida Governor Charlie Crist and Navy Secretary Ray Mabus Saturday.
“I made a commitment in my visits here that I was going to stand with you not just until the well was closed, not just until the oil was cleaned up, but until you had fully recovered from the damage that’s been done,” he said.
He also encouraged Americans to travel to the Gulf Coast. (I’m already planning a visit to the Galveston beaches when I return home to Houston, Texas in a few weeks and can’t wait for a swim in the surf and a shrimp Po’Boy sandwich.)
Check out my favorite pics from the Obamas’ trip below!
It wouldn’t be an Obama outing without a stop for ice cream. The first family gets an ice cream snack before leaving for Panama City.
Obama and Michelle greet members of the U.S. Coast Guard.
Obama and Sasha go for a swim at Alligator Point.
The Obamas play miniature golf in Panama City. Who do you think won?
