PEORIA -- This is the day we have been waiting for.
Obama is now president. But the inauguration ceremony gets a B-plus at best. Let's hope his administration can do better.
The speech: not bad, but full of the same old generalities. At least he touched on a few good things, such as restoring science "to its rightful place," and "we refuse a false choice between our safety and our ideals."
Does that mean Bush, Cheney & Co. will be prosecuted for war crimes? Probably not.
"The rule of law and the rights of men" were mentioned, as well as restoring America's leadership in the world. But then "we will defeat you," a jingoistic cry against enemies drew applause.
"We will extend a hand if you are willing to unclinch your fist," can be a debatable line. Less ambiguous: "the spirit of service, a willingness to find meaning in something larger than (our)selves."
The old values of hard work, a return to responsibility -- good sentiments but will it put an end to corporate greed? Not likely. It may not even bring universal health coverage.
The rest of the ceremony was very mixed. Rick Warren's 'prayer' gets an F-minus, as sexist -- an appeal to "our father" -- and sectarian, "Jesus."
His assertions in the prayer that his god controls everything, frankly, is superstition and should have no place in government. In fact that assumption undercuts government, instituted by people.
The poem by a professor-friend of Obama's was, frankly, leaden and awful. Another F.
Any number of other poets could have written a better one, or recited a better poem from the past. (Blago -- where were you when we needed you?)
The music was lovely, and benediction was one of the best ever -- no sexism or sectarian appeals here, just lively talk. Both deserve A pluses.
I watched the ceremony with a group of Democrats at Childer's Eatery, 3312 N. University, always a good bet for breakfast or lunch. Their reactions were moving.
The crowd applauded Obama with standing ovations.
There were hugs for newly elected state Rep. Jehan Gordon. Peoria County Democratic chairman Billy Halstead brought in a life-sized cutout of Obama, to the delight of the crowd. Shutters snapped, to record this day in history.
-- Elaine Hopkins
In addition: Here are four great photos from retired Journal Star photographer Al Harkrader of the people at Childers.
Finally, Pat and Warren Harris pose with the Obama cutout.
Thanks, Al!
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