Obamas Seek Privacy on Vineyard Vacay

First Family lays down rules: Leave girls alone

The Obamas are on Martha's Vineyard, hoping to get away from it all -- especially the press.

The White House is accommodating the media, arranging for a filing center at a local school, assembling pool coverage to tail the president if he goes out and promising daily press briefings. But the First Family has made clear it wishes for a vacation from constant coverage, and has been adamant that first daughters Sasha, 8, and Malia, 11, be left alone.

Reporters are forbidden from approaching the girls when they do things kids do, like get ice cream or ride on the island’s famed carousel. They are also barred from texting or calling pals about the family's movements on the small island.

“The first family would very much appreciate if you respect the privacy of the girls while they’re out here on vacation,’’ said White House Deputy Press Secretary Bill Burton.

The First Family is paying its share for the $35,000-a-week vacation compound, with taxpayers picking up the tab for security and White House staff.

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