My memories of Washington, D.C.

I have an even deeper sense of purpose and drive after spending the last several days in Washington. The spirit of D.C. over the past few days cannot be put into words. Those of us gathered there were full of hope and happiness. We were celebrating a moment in time that will forever change the direction of our country.

Sunday’s “We Are One” Concert
Woodstock was before my time, but I’d imagine that Sunday’s Concert was a colder version of that. Hundreds of thousands of people gathered between Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument for a star-studded celebration of Unity in America. I was at Washington Monument watching the Jumbotrons (which seemed more like mini-trons at the time) with a group of friends. Shivering, but happy, thousands of people stood together enjoying some of America’s greatest hits. The crowd was loud - talking with whoever was around them and bonding over the shared moment in history. Every time the camera panned to the Obamas people went wild! Those in attendance were only quiet during President Obama’s speech - you could hear a pin drop. The moment really hit me after President Obama spoke and Beyonce performed our National Anthem. The entire crowd was singing along, proud to be American and proud to have elected such an amazing man.

The Crowd at Washington Memorial

Jumbotron seems like "Mini-tron"

The crowd goes wild for Mr. President

The crowd cheers after President Obama's speech

Inaugural Parade and Swearing-in Ceremony
I was selected to volunteer for the Inaugural Parade, escorting ticketed individuals to their seats. Volunteers arrived at 5:30am. It was early and very cold, but spirits were high. Armed with many layers of clothes, hand-warmers, feet-warmers and a heavy coat, I braved the winter weather. Despite all the layers, there were times that I was concerned about my frozen fingers and toes! I just kept repeating, “This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience....” I bonded with other frozen volunteers and law enforcement agents as we waited for the crowds to move in.

Empty bleachers at 5:30am

Bonding with volunteers and security

Around 11:15am I took my first break and joined hundreds of other volunteers in one of D.C.’s visitor centers for a boxed lunch, much-needed heat and a television. There I watched Mr. Obama take the 35-word Presidential Oath and address the Nation. As usual, Mr. Obama did not disappoint! His speech was both thought-provoking and inspirational.

Volunteers watching Obama take the Oath

After the speech, I returned to the cold. Those with and without tickets had begun lining up as early as 4:00am so the sidewalks were packed by noon. Time passed quickly and the parade started around 3:30pm.

The bleachers are no longer empty

Supporters are cold, but enthusiastic

And the parade begins

You could hear a wave of applause and cheering erupt as the Obamas moved up Pennsylvania Avenue toward the White House. As I pulled off my gloves to get ready to take the most important picture of my life...I dropped my camera...and it didn’t turn back on! I was devastated. About 30 seconds after I realized my camera was broken, the Obamas drove by. I can’t complain, however, as I was at the front of the barricades and had a clear view of the family waving at the crowds. A few minutes later Vice-President Biden and his family walked by. I even got a friendly wave from Mr. Biden!

Fortunately, other volunteers who saw me drop my camera or heard my sob story were kind enough to send me their photos. This should give you a good idea of what I saw.

It's the First Lady and Sasha!


Vice-President Biden waving

Tuesday Night Gala
A good friend of mine who worked diligently on Obama’s campaign invited me to a gala hosted by an Illinois Congressman. I met many individuals who worked with Obama when he was a State Senator. It was a very enjoyable evening!

The Take-Away
I’ve included my favorite part of President Obama’s Inaugural Speech below:

“On this day, we gather because we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord. On this day, we come to proclaim an end to the petty grievances and false promises, the recriminations and worn-out dogmas that for far too long have strangled our politics. We remain a young nation. But in the words of Scripture, the time has come to set aside childish things. The time has come to reaffirm our enduring spirit; to choose our better history; to carry forward that precious gift, that noble idea passed on from generation to generation: the God-given promise that all are equal, all are free, and all deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness.” - President Barack Obama (1/20/09)

All of Plainfield’s leadership (including me) can learn from our new President. Genuine unity, transparent government and a focus on Plainfield’s needs will move the Queen City forward. This is an exciting time in history and the momentum exists to make real and lasting change. .

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