Category Archives: Election ’08

The Moment – with Lincoln looking on

The significance of the Inauguration was not lost on its planners, with large screen televisions spread throughout The Mall, including parts that were not necessarily on the minds of most of the folks in town for the events. While an estimated 2 million in the main crowd shot, I thought maybe it would be nice to see it happen the way those of us who chose to watch with Abraham Lincoln’s memorial in the background did earlier this morning.

Obama Inspired Art in Georgetown

So besides finally realizing that the throngs of people are starting to arrive here in town, I’ve also found some very interesting free activities that have been available to visitors over the weekend. This exhibit closes tonight, but thanks to the fun of the web, and The Terminal’s YouTube channel, portions of it will live on for a little while longer…
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Tracking the change, Weekly style

We didn’t cover this year’s Presidential election – well, at least not the stretch run – but Birmingham Weekly did. Now the Weekly’s own Matt Hooper’s keeping track of the appointments to President-elect Barack Obama’s cabinet and his senior aides over on Mixed Media. That is, if you don’t feel like visiting the official transition website.

City plans inauguration event for Kelly Ingram Park

One point that few people have brought up so far is that the nation will celebrate the 80th anniversary of the birth of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. just one day before it formally swears in its first African-American president (King’s actual birth date is January 15).

Now, considering how difficult it is to find even a one-way ticket to Washington, DC at a reasonable price for the January 20th events (possibly due to early estimates of at least 1 million people already making plans to attend), Birmingham city officials are planning to bring the inauguration to The Magic City – particularly historic Kelly Ingram Park.

This would undoubtedly also bring renewed national focus to the city’s annual events for the slain Civil Rights leader (including the Unity Breakfast). It also doesn’t seem to be nearly as controversial as plans currently underway in San Francisco for a similar event being organized by NextArts.org.

Congratulations President-elect Obama

President-elect Barack Obama. Bob Farley/f8Photo

There are two main reasons why we’ve stayed quiet since Tuesday. One was somewhat implied in my sole entry on Election Day – I (and thus The Terminal) have been moving to a new section of town and it’s a little difficult to write when you’re moving boxes. The other reason was because simply put – Tuesday was one of those days that did not need commentary or opinion. It was a day where we witnessed a peaceful transfer of power and the promise of change in Washington.

Well, there is one more reason, but you’ll have to head over to my Birmingham to learn about it.

Where to watch Election night returns in Birmingham

I’ve been spending most of the day moving (after waiting in line to vote early this morning), so I’ve actually avoided most of the last minute politicizing. It also looks like I’ll be spending the evening unpacking the house (and settling into The Terminal’s new offices), but you… you have options.

Here are just a few choices after the jump.

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Sweet reasons to vote

It’s our civic duty. One that we at the Terminal highly encourage. And while it feels good to be a part of the political process, there’s a better reason to vote today — yummy ice cream.

So grab your “I Voted” sticker and proudly wear it to either The Summit or Patton Creek locations of Ben & Jerry’s from 5-8 p.m. for your free scoop. Both locations are participating in the giveaway. Earlier in the day, you can get a free tall cup of joe from Starbucks. Then drive over to Krispy Kreme for a free star-shaped doughnut to enjoy with that coffee. Now, the guy we spoke to at the Hoover location say he didn’t think they were participating, but the guy at the 1st Avenue North location said the offer is being made at all stores. So sure bets are East Lake and Midfield. Enjoy!