Chapel Hill Mayor Mark Kleinschmidt is joining a throng of 7,000 fans aboard the USS Carl Vinson to watch UNC play Michigan State in the Carrier Classic this evening — on an invitation from the White House.
“It’s very exciting,” Kleinschmidt said. “It’s been kind of a whirlwind 24 hours.”
Kleinschmidt said he received the invitation just yesterday, immediately arranged travel plans and arrived in San Diego last night.
“I’m now standing on the deck of the Carl Vinson,” he said, explaining that he never expected to attend the game. “This is probably one of the most exclusive tickets in the world tonight.”
Kleinschmidt said he is excited to watch the Tar Heels face off against the Spartans this evening, and he is thrilled to have the opportunity open the season with what he thinks will be a win.
He said he expects the game will be one of the most memorable in the University’s history.
President Obama will also be at the event, according to the White House presidential schedule.
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