Obama coming to GR today

Wed, May 14, 2008    to del.icio.us

GRAND RAPIDS — The 2008 presidential campaign arrives in West Michigan later today.

Barack Obama will be making his first stop in Michigan since pulling his name off the state's Democratic primary ballot in January when he appears at Van Andel Arena in downtown Grand Rapids tonight.

Organizers of a wrestling event at the arena on Tuesday night had to begin packing up immediately after the show to make way for Obama's advance team. Arena officials said they were confident they would be ready when doors open at 5 p.m. today.

"We do it all of the time — football and hockey in the same day, shows back-to-back all season — it's a long day," said Jim Watt, Van Andel Arena assistant manager. "The crew will be busy, but we will get it done."

With numerous supporters in West Michigan, there could be as many as 12,000 people in the arena for the 7 p.m. rally.

Kent County Democratic Chairwoman Sue Levy said their office has been busy.

"The phones are off the hook (and) the Web site has crashed," she told WZZM-TV. "It's just been phenomenal."

A handful of supporters for Republican Sen. John McCain told the Grand Rapids television station that they also plan to see Obama tonight.

"It's always good to make sure you understand what the other side is going to be talking about," Chad Fauskee said.

The Grand Rapids Police Department will have extra officers on duty to direct traffic.

"We have seen this before," Lt. Patrick Dean said. "We're excited to have a potential presidential candidate visit Grand Rapids. We are well prepared for it."

Obama is expected to talk about jobs and the economy, and how his presidency would be different than George W. Bush.

No signs are allowed inside the arena for the event. People are not allowed to bring in bags for security reasons.

Those planning to attend the event are asked to RSVP online at www.barackobama.com.

— From WZZM-TV