Billboard on I-35 in Minnesota/Credit: MPR

Business owners in Minnesota who are frustrated with Washington are apparently behind what was thought might be an internet hoax. Minnesota Public Radio’s Bob Collins gets to the bottom of the mysterious image of President George W. Bush, smiling down at unsuspecting Minnesota drivers:

Mary Teske, the general manager of Schubert & Hoey Outdoor Advertising reports, “The Bush Miss Me Yet? billboard was paid for by a group of small business owners who feel like Washington is against them. They wish to remain anonymous. They thought it was a fun way of getting out their message.”

Various people have stepped forward around the country to claim credit — the latest was a gentleman in upstate New York from what I can tell in his e-mail. But, it’s all local, folks.