Headed to Inauguration

I am leaving Friday night, by AMTRAK from Atlanta to be a part of the Inaugural crowd. This will be my 7th inauguration. I went first in 1977 to attend Georgia's own Jimmy Carter, and was there when the crowd surged when he and Rosalyn decided to walk down Penn. Ave. I went to Reagan 1 (1981) but stayed here for the Reagan 2 (1985) due to my brother's illness. The weather caused it to be cancelled due to 7 degree weather (I just verified that). That was the coldest inauguration on record or in recent times.

Bush in 1989 was the George to George event, the 200th anniversary of Geo. Washington's first inaugural and a lot was made of the names.

Clinton 1 in 1993 was a big change of power after 12 years of Republicans and what I like about going is feeling the sweep of power change, but peaceful. No matter how bad the campaign, or how close or low the vote totals, things just go on.

Clinton 2 in 1997 was not as well attended and second ones are not as much to see. I like the parade and all the people and the souvenirs available. I actually got tickets to sit in the bleachers for the parade for Clinton 2 in 1997.

For George W. Bush 1 in 2001 a friend Dr. Thomas Wade went with me and we stayed in the Hotel Washington downtown, a different experience. His son and daughter-in-law were also up there and we met up with them as well. The weather was not so good, so we didn't sit it out outside. Secret Service made us shut the window. But I went to an Inaugural Gala at the Museum of Natural History, tux and all. That was the Pennsylvania state event and someone asked me the clan (klan?) represented by my plaid cummerbund and bow tie. I told them we didn't discuss clan/klan affiliations down South. He went to one of the Inaugural Balls somewhere in town. We met the head of the DAR on the train who was from Mississippi, and some other interesting folks.

I did not go to Bush, G. W. no 2 in 2005. So that is my saga. Looking forward to my visit with Sconyers family, with whom I stayed with on most of the inaugural visits starting in 1989 I think it was,and other times. Will have to post my experiences on my return, as I am not taking laptop with me. KEN