As hundreds waited to see President Barack Obama on his way to give a speech, Jeremy Harris was working on a speech of his own: what he'd say to the Commander in Chief.
"I’m really hoping to be on a first name basis with him," said Harris. "Like, 'oh, hey. Can I call you Barack?'"
Harris is one of 120 students from the Perpich Arts High School who walked about a mile from school to stake out a spot in front of Honeywell’s Golden Valley facility.
"We’re here to show our support for the president," said Perpich senior Charlotte Deutsch. "We’re all really excited to maybe see him possibly."
But they didn’t just come for fun. Instead of holding signs supporting Obama, these guys held posters promoting school arts programs.
"I just think it’s very important for our education," said Perpich junior Nicholas Larson. "[It] not only teaches us skills we can use for our education in the future, it teaches how to be responsible. It helps us think in a new way. It's just great for everyone everywhere."
When the big moment arrived, it was over just as soon as it began. But the students said they were certain he saw them and the signs and agreed the trip was worth it.
"It was so exciting!" said Harris. "I think we made eye contact."
"He seemed legitimately happy to see us," said Perpich junior Heather Bay. "It was really nice to see that happening and glad Perpich came here."
Even though the moment was brief, the students, as well as the other several hundred spectators who came, will likely be talking about it for a long time.
Renee Banot
rbanot@twelve.tv
June 1, 2012