Watching history from a diner

January 20, 2:26 PMSacramento Environmental News ExaminerHarry Osibin

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Kim Alexander

Dad's Kitchen in Land Park, great place.  Tuesday morning about 20 neighbors of all ages gathered to watch the Presidential inauguration.  At times it seemed as though I had flashed back to Berkeley in the '70s.  There was an activist "feel" to the room and I suspect that most of the guests were experienced at holding a hand-lettered signs with a political message.  But this was a small gathering of 21st century Sacramentans intent on celebrating a world changing event over coffee or other beverage.  There were cheers for Dianne Feinstein, our video M.C., and cheers for Aretha Franklin (our group was a good demographic for her; many of us remember when "Respect" was released).  Aretha energized the crowd with a stirring rendition of "My Country 'tis of Thee."

Rick Warren, controversial choice to lead the invocation, was greeted by our small group with respectful quiet, not silence.  As a matter of fact, there was surprisinglly little of the vitriol in our group one could associate with partisan politics these days in this country.

We stood as the oath was administered to the new President  We clapped when each speaker finished.  I have not addressed nor appluaded the video screen so directly since Joe Montana was winning Super Bowls with the 49ers.

However as Bush (former president) and Obama (the president) descended the Capitol steps with their wives, one of our group yelled out to Bush on the screen, "Don't let the door hit you where the Good Lord split you!" to laughs all around.

One would hope that the civil and political discourse in future years is no more venomnous than that.

Then we had breakfast; good coffee.

Thanks to the gang at Dad's Kitchen and to Kim Alexander, who organized a gathering of neighbors who could become friends.

The Presidential motorcade included the armored vehicle known as "The Beast" in which was carried the leaders of the new administration.  What kind of mileage must the behemoth get?  Is there a hybrid?  The First Couple walked along part of the route and waved to the cheering crowds.  Didn't see bicyclists along the route.

As for the environment, climate change and the other challenges facing us these days, the words of the new president sounded a confidedent, but challenging note to the American people.  Critics are saying that Obama promised a little something for everyone.  I didn't hear him make any promises that did not involve the activism and participation of the American people.

Special Report: Inauguration Day 2009

• Official Inaugural Events
• Neighborhood Inaugural Ball project
• Examiner.com Inauguration Roundup
• Examiner Coverage: Inauguration Day 2009
• The Obama Administration at a glance