Obama golfs with NYC Mayor Bloomberg

The two spoke about the economy for 15 minutes in the clubhouse before heading out to the course at the Vineyard Golf Club.

Bloomberg and Obama are both dealing with the controversy surrounding the proposed Islamic center that would be built two blocks from the site of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

"The president and Mayor Bloomberg took the opportunity to discuss plans for short- and long-term economic growth at a pivotal point in our recovery," said White House spokesman Reid Cherlin, according to the report.

Bloomberg has been an outspoken supporter of the project. Obama offered a statement two weeks ago defending the right of developers to build the facility, but seemed to back away from those comments a day later by stating that he was not commenting on the "wisdom" of its location.

Friday's round is reportedly the first time Obama and Bloomberg have played golf together. Obama inivted Bloomberg about a week ago.

Vernon Jordan, the former adviser to President Clinton, and trip director Marvin Nicholson joined Obama and Bloomberg for the round.

Obama also played golf with House Majority Whip James Clyburn (D-S.C.) during his trip. The president typically hits the links with close friends and staff.

Obama travels Sunday to New Orleans to deliver an address on continued recovery efforts from Hurricane Katrina.