Community Celebration for Barack Obama

LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - Tomorrow's inauguration of the first African American President is history in the making.  Millions are headed to Washington D.C. to watch Barack Obama become the 44th President of the United States.  But, if you can't get to the nation's capital you can still take part in the celebration right here in town at the Historic Lafayette Theatre.

"We wanted to do something, because let's face it it's an historical event the first African American president, not to mention it's as if the torch is being passed to a different generation," said Heather Maddox.

Democratic Party Vice-Chair Heather Maddox said whether republican or democrat everyone is invited to watch the inauguration on one of the biggest screens in town.  News Channel 18's Laura Kirtley will have a first-hand view of Obama's inauguration.  Kirtley is in Washington DC and she said the city is buzzing with activity.

"From the second I landed at Dulles to my bus ride into the city, everyone is here for the same cause and everyone is excited about the inauguration and all the festivities.  It's a fun time for the country and everyone seems to be really excited about the Obama Presidency.  So we'll see how tomorrow goes, but right now people are lined up,waiting for their tickets, some of them for hours.  This is the main event here in DC and everyone is pretty excited," said Laura Kirtley.

And close to home many are also fired up about what the inauguration day will bring the country.

"I think Obama is going to do okay, he's got some new ideas, new plans and it seems like he's getting a good organization around him which will help," said Ralph Robinson.

"No drama Obama, he's very calm, he's very parental, I feel like he has our best interest at heart and he's going to do his best for this country," said Sheryl Sabo.

"I know it's going to be a big job for him, but everyone has to stay positive and try to back him," said Lorita Bill.

"It's very exciting it's a new day in American politics and leadership, I have confidence in him and he's surrounding himself with great people and will get this country back on track," said Jim McMurray.

The community celebration will be tomorrow from 10:30a.m. until 1:30p.m. at the Lafayette Theater on 600 Main Street.  The Purdue Student government is also sponsoring an inauguration viewing party from 10:30a.m. to 2:00p.m.  in the Purdue Memorial Union's South Ballroom.  Both are open to the public.