First lady Michelle Obama's Charlottesville appearance Friday at Main Street Arena was canceled in response to the mass shooting at a movie theater in Aurora, Colorado.
Obama was scheduled to speak at a Women's Vote event at Main Street Arena in downtown Charlottesville. Prior to the announcement of her cancellation, a number of people were in line as early as 7:30 Friday morning.
The crowd was understanding and hopeful the first lady will reschedule her event at Main Street Arena. White House sources indicate that is a strong possibility.
Joyce Coleman of Waynesboro said, "I respect our president and first lady and honor them for taking the initiative to be there for the Colorado families."
Coleman traveled from Waynesboro to see the first lady. She, like many others, was disappointed with the decision but understood the reason.
"Sadden, a little disappointed that we're not able to see Mrs. Obama. Had looked forward to seeing her," said Marie Gillespie of Buckingham County.
Mrs. Obama was slated to use Charlottesville to launch the campaign's new "It Takes One" program, an attempt to engage new supporters and grow the Obama for America's grassroots organization.
Main Street Arena owner Mark Brown said, "The facility was obviously in top-notch condition and it was going to be a really nice event."
Campaign volunteers turned people away at the door on Friday, while between 50 and 80 volunteers took to cellphones to alert those on the list to not make the trip downtown.
Coleman said, "Hoping that she will reschedule sometime in the future."
"We'll be here when she comes again," Gillespie said.
At this point there is no word on if the event will be rescheduled. Someone with the campaign said they really appreciate the fact that people were so understanding.
Statement from Obama Biden Campaign: Statement from In light of the tragedy in Colorado, the First Lady's events in Virginia today will be canceled. President Obama will address the tragedy in Aurora, Colorado in remarks in Ft. Myers, Florida this morning.
