Michelle Obama came to Gainesville, Florida today and drew a crowd of 11,000 people to a rally aimed at getting out the early vote. The crowd arrived very early, with the line stretching many blocks an hour before the rally area was opened. The podium was located in front of the historic Hippodrome State Theater and the crowd spread out through the blocked off streets in front of the theater.
Michelle Obama in front of Hippodrome State Theater in Gainesville, FL
By arriving early, I was able to stake out a spot close to the podium to get the full benefit of the Michelle Obama smile:
Michelle Obama flashes her smile to the Gainesville crowd.
The crowd was very enthusiastic and many had already voted even though early voting has only been going on in Florida since Monday morning. Michelle provided a personal account of how Barack "gets it because he has lived it". There was a real connection with the crowd and the rally was an overall uplifting experience.

For more photos that I took, go here.

For a local media account check here.