Thousands Flock to Centennial Olympic Park to Watch Inauguration

Around 6,000 people braved the cold, windy weather today at Centennial Olympic Park in Atlanta to watch President Barack Obama take the oath of office.

Naseer Bayan is a mental health counselor in downtown Atlanta. He says the election of President Obama shows the country is moving in the right direction.

"We're growing as a country... We're learning, and we're healing as a country. It's good stuff."

David Dryer works at a law firm in downtown Atlanta and was also at the event.

"It's just a thrill to be here when Obama takes the oath of office and see history in the making... I hope he takes a progressive agenda, moves forward labor reforms, furthers equality and reforms our healthcare system."

Both Dryer and Bayan say they took extended lunches so they could attend the event.

Lowry Blesses Obama Inauguration

The man who gave the benediction at Tuesday's presidential inauguration of Barack Obama is a Georgian. The Reverend Joseph Lowry said Obama takes office at a "low moment" in the nation's and the world's economic health. The 87-year-old Methodist prayed for an end to "exploitation" of the weak and poor, and what he called "favoritism toward the rich."

Lowry added some humor to his blessing, ending with a rhyme familiar to black church-goers: "We ask you to help us work for that day when black will not be asked to get in back, when brown can stick around...When yellow will be mellow, when the red man can get ahead, man; and when white will embrace what is right. That all those who do justice and love mercy say Amen."
The crowd thundered, "Amen!"

(with help from the Associated Press)

Georgians Ready for Inauguration Festivities

Thousands of Georgians have made the trek to Washington D.C. to take-in today’s Inauguration events. Last night, about a thousand people attended a ball put on by the Georgia State Society.

Among some Georgia-connected names in D.C. today--the Reverand Joseph Lowery. He will deliver the benediction at today's Inauguration. Lowery is the co-founder of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and retired pastor of Atlanta’s Cascade United Methodist Church.

Across Georgia, there will be viewing parties and events for the Inauguration. Those include in Plains. Some of the people who once helped Jimmy Carter win the nation's highest office are gathering in Carter's hometown. The Jimmy Carter National Historic Site is hosting a special Inaugural Day event at the Plains High School Museum/Visitor Center.

Complete Inauguration coverage can be heard on the Georgia Public Broadcasting radio network. You can also get updates anytime by going to our website: gpb.org