First Lady Visits Alabama
By: Stephen Crews
Updated: July 18, 2012
First Lady Michelle Obama visited dozens of children, Wednesday, in the Birmingham area.
She stopped by the McAlpine Community Center to meet the children, who are both survivors of the April 2011 Pratt City tornadoes and take part in the "Healthy Happy Kids Program." The program is affiliated with UAB and focuses on healthy eating, living and exercise, which is something Obama has been very proactive with since her time in the White House.
The children were also making heart healthy snacks during the First Lady's visit.
Obama took her time, meeting every child, talking with them and even giving out hugs.
Organizers say Baa's visit gives the community a sense of hope.
"To have the First Lady of the United States come to Alabama, to come to the Ensley, Pratt City area and for the children to get a hug and love on her...it will change their lives in terms of believing that there is still hope," Joanice Thompson said.
Obama also met with city and state leaders like Mayor William Bell and Congresswoman Terri Sewell to discuss the rebuilding efforts in the Pratt City area following last year's tornadoes.
Bell says he's very grateful for the response the city has gotten from the White House and the government during the recovery and rebuilding phases.
