Letters to the President: #843 'Waiting for the O'

Reporter's Note: President Obama’s re-election campaign is already underway and headed, ultimately, for North Carolina which is where I am writing today’s letter to the White House.

Dear Mr. President,

So I spent most of the day touring around and talking to people in Charlotte, where your Democrats will soon hold their next big national political convention and where, presumably, you will officially receive their official blessing for your re-election bid. My guess is that you’re going to be kind of busy at the time, and that’s a shame. Because if you just had an afternoon to roam around, you would be so very impressed with how this town has transformed itself.

Some years back when I came here for work, to be honest, I just didn’t find it interesting at all. The business area was dull as dirt after 5 p.m. and not much better in the earlier hours. The restaurants were uninspired. Even the traffic seemed pedestrian. (Ha!)

Today, however, Charlotte is brimming with life and energy. Downtown is beautiful with lovely fountains splashing all over the place, tall elegant buildings, clean streets, and plenty of good places to eat. So many nice, inviting neighborhoods seem close by, and the people just can’t be beat.

Maybe this is just the nature of North Carolina. Throughout our week here we have been overwhelmed with how many folks seem ready to lend a hand, say hello, or just give you a wave. No kidding, I left a parking garage where I had lost my ticket, and the attendant seemed genuinely upset that he had to charge me the full fare. I thought he was going to cry.

So when the convention comes around, try to carve out a little “me” time and take a walk through Charlotte. (Ok, so you might have to wear a fake mustache. I know I did.) Sure, their football team has its problems, but you’ll be delighted by what you see and whether folks like your politics or not, they’ll make you feel at home.

Call if you get a moment and I’ll give you more details. Btw, I have a wicked spring cold, so I don’t think I can come over this weekend. But hopefully I’ll be better by the next one.

Regards,
Tom

Follow Tom on Twitter @tomforemancnn.

Find more of the Foreman Letters here.