President Obama is coming to Kern County Monday and 17 News is learning more about how you might be able to see him. The White House isn't giving away many details, but preparations are already underway for his visit.
The White House team was in Keene Thursday afternoon making final arrangements for next week to accommodate a big crowd coming to the tiny town.
In the foothills of the Tehachapi mountains, the buzz on the streets of Keene is that the President is coming to town.
"All we've been talking about probably since we found out, he's coming," said Maria Higareda, Manager of Keene Cafe.
"I think it's a huge deal," she continued.
"They just can't believe we're having someone so important, our leader, come into town," said Nancy Romero.
The town of 431 people centers around Keene Café. The restaurant has doubled up on food.
"I think we're going to get a big rush of people in here," noted Higareda.
Outside the cafe, crews are cleaning up the road that leads to the United Farm Workers headquarters. Villa La Paz will be at the center of Monday's ceremony.
The White House Team arrived Wednesday in Kern County. But, final details of President Obama's visit are still in the works.
"Where do you park cars? Where do the bathrooms go? As well as where is the event to be held, the stage, and the sound, and who's going to speak?" said Paul Chavez, Cesar Chávez's son.
The late Cesar Chávez spent the later years of his life in Villa La Paz, where he lived, worked, and was laid to rest.
President Obama will honor Chávez's legacy by announcing a national monument in his honor, giving a voice to farmworkers across the nation.
Thousands are expected to attend Monday's ceremony.
"Establishing this national monument is the first step in telling this story of the tremendous contributions that were made for generations and generations," continued Chavez.
If you would like to attend Monday, you need to sign up online. A limited number of tickets are available. Registration closes at 5 p.m. Friday.
Go to
