Yes, Memphis did! Local inauguration ball celebrates Obama presidency
Wearing a long, chocolate gown and a Dolce and Gabbana stole, Simonia Cunningham, one of the guests at the “Miracle in Memphis — ‘Yes We Can’ Inaugural Ball” at The Peabody, said, “You need to do it up big as you can do it. We’re making history.”
Cunningham and Zachary Kerr were among the 500 guests who turned out for the ball Tuesday night.
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Memphians celebrate President Barack Obama's inauguration at the "Miracle in Memphis: 'Yes We Can' Inaugural Ball" at The Peabody. The party was hosted by Memphis Business Executives for Change. Watch »
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“People all over the world are excited about historic change,” said Memphis Mayor Willie Herenton, who sat at a front table. “It will give a new image of America to the world.”
The party was hosted by Memphis Business Executives for Change. Eunice Johnson, founder, welcomed guests.
The program led off with the Boys & Girls Choir of Memphis performing several selections, beginning with “Everything Will Be All Right.”
Now that President Barack Obama is in office, Americans have to keep moving forward, said James Alexander of the Bar-Kays, which headlined the event. “We got to go to work,” he said.
The party also featured a performance by Watoto de Africa, Archie Love and comedian Funny Man Prescott.
O. C. Pleasant, past chairman of the Shelby County Election Commission, was a special guest.
Highlights of Tuesday’s inauguration were shown on big screens during the evening.
“This party is a celebration of the history of America — No.1,” said Geno Evans. “No. 2 — diversity is now at the forefront of the whole country.”
“I’m just happy to be here and I’m happy to see America take a turn for the better,” said Gilbert Battle.
“Maybe it’s not the complete dream Martin Luther King had, but we’re getting there,” Valerie Calhoun said.
“We have a wonderful president and the people believe and trust in him,” said Larry Dodson with the Bar-Kays. “I think we’re gonna be just fine.”
— Michael Donahue
Comments » 2
SimoniaMeChelle writes:
The Inaugural Ball in Memphis Tn. on January 20th 2009 was one of the most amazing Events In the City that night, the people had faces of great expectation, and achievement,experiencing History being made in a positive light,these are memories of Memphis that will warm many hearts for years to come. There is much work to do still all over our great nation. Me, I will start with my own company, as the Ceo. Pres. of Notta Pickin Cotton Filmworks Production that is seeking sponsors to bring it to another level. Watching President Barack Obama & Michelle Obama along with our own celebration let me know there is nothing to stop anyone from achieving greatness with effort. Tyler Perry, John Singleton, Craig Brewer, Justin Timberlake, Bob Johnson, Oprah, Memphis has SimoniaMeChelle on her way! We'll continue to celebrate Memphis. go to myspacemusic.com/simoniamechelle sponsors cunningham.simonia@yahoo.com
SimoniaMeChelle writes:
Mr. Michael Donahue did an Outstanding job writing this article, you told it exactly like it was at the celebration. You should be awarded for your excellent work!
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