DC- Another first; Obama to webcast inaugural ball

There is no doubt that Obama sees the importance of the Internet in daily life. That fact may play an important part in future laws governing sex offenders, and may be used as a defense against harsher Internet laws when they are not needed. Take note!

1-6-2009 Washington DC:

On inauguration night, Barack and Michelle will make their first stop – and dance their first dance – at a ball that will be Webcast to living rooms and community centers around the country as part of the Presidential Inaugural Committee’s plan to make this the most accessible swearing-in in history.

Some of the tickets will go free to District of Columbia residents, and some will be offered to grassroots supporters around the country.

Planners are borrowing from the house-party concept that the Obama campaign used to bring the excitement of the trail into the homes of grassroots supporters.

"This is an Inauguration for all Americans," Obama said in a statement. "I wanted to make sure that we had an event that would be open to our new neighborhood here in Washington, D.C., and also neighborhoods across the country. Michelle and I look forward to joining our fellow Americans across the country during this very special event."

The event, one of 10 official inaugural balls, will be held at the Washington Convention Center.
The Presidential Inaugural Committee is calling it “the premiere event” of the night, and trying to validate that by making it the new president’s first stop.

“The ball will also feature a robust interactive component, including webcasting and text messaging,” the committee said in its announcement. “The PIC will release more details soon about using technology to allow Americans who are attending neighborhood balls across the country to participate actively in this celebration.” The idea is to bring the excitement of the ball to unofficial celebrations in living rooms and municipal centers around the country.” ..News Source.. by MIKE ALLEN