Sitting in a conference room with members of the editorial and sales staff, I watch Aretha Franklin sing ‘Let Freedom Ring.’  The television I’m watching the inauguration on sports both UHF and VHF knobs, and will likely be a paperweight in a month.  The wood paneling surrounding us probably contains asbestos, and is potentially older than our incoming President.

The decor is reminiscent of a better time in politics.  A time before hard-core partisan rhetoric divided the country.  A time when politicians worked to improve the country despite their affiliation, rather than pushing their party’s agenda first and foremost.

A time that I hope President Barack Obama can resurrect.

Joseph Biden is sworn in, as jokes roll about Cheney not being able to stand.  Cheney allegedly injured his back while packing, and attends the inauguration in a wheel chair.  No gaffs by Biden as he is sworn in, although there is a bit of a stumble.

A musical interlude has us worried.  Isn’t the incoming president supposed to be sworn in by noon?  It’s 11:59 a.m. eastern.  Our editor informs us that as long as it’s started by then, we’re ok.

No technicality to grant Bush four more years.

Katie Couric points out that Biden is officially President right now since it’s after noon and Obama has not been sworn in yet.  Say it ain’t so, Joe.

Obama is a bit nervous during the presidential oath.  Stumbling over his words a bit,  makes it through.

It’s official, we have our 44th President – Barack Obama.

“My fellow citizens,” begins Obama.  “I stand here today humbled by the task before us, grateful for the trust you have bestowed, mindful of the sacrifices borne by our ancestors.”

Random highlights from an incredible Obama speech:

“That we are in the midst of crisis is now well understood. Our nation is at war, against a far-reaching network of violence and hatred. Our economy is badly weakened, a consequence of greed and irresponsibility on the part of some, but also our collective failure to make hard choices and prepare the nation for a new age. Homes have been lost; jobs shed; businesses shuttered. Our health care is too costly; our schools fail too many; and each day brings further evidence that the ways we use energy strengthen our adversaries and threaten our planet.”

“Today I say to you that the challenges we face are real. They are serious and they are many. They will not be met easily or in a short span of time. But know this, America — they will be met.”

“Starting today, we must pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off, and begin again the work of remaking America.”

“And so to all other peoples and governments who are watching today, from the grandest capitals to the small village where my father was born: know that America is a friend of each nation and every man, woman, and child who seeks a future of peace and dignity, and that we are ready to lead once more.”

“This is the price and the promise of citizenship.”