How are you going to celebrate the inauguration of the Forty-Fourth President of the Untied States? The radio show, “Where We Live”, on WNPR will be talking with Connecticut residents who are in DC for the inauguration. If you’re going to be there, drop them a note at wherewelive@wnpr.org.

Also, the People's Center in New Haven has a bus going down to DC. It is scheduled to leave at 12:05 in the morning and return at 11:55 that night. Call the People's Center 203-624-8664 for more information.

If you’re staying in Connecticut, you might want to check out some of the other big parties. There are two parties I’ve heard people talking about in New Haven. Susan Robinson is planning a party at the Belvedere. She can be reached at 203 934-2963. Brian McGrath is working on an actual ball in New Haven. Brian can be reached at BmcGrath newhavenct.net.

Over in Fairfield County, The Ridgefield Democratic Town Committee is sponsoring "Change is Here!"- a very special celebration of the election and inauguration of Barack Obama as our 44th President! Join them for cocktails, canapes, music, dancing, desserts and revelry on Tuesday, January 20th, 2009 from 7:30 to 10 PM at the Ridgefield Community Center, 316 Main Street, in Ridgefield. Contact Betsy Thompson at 203-894-9199 for more details.

In Norwalk, there will be an Inaugural Gala Honoring Barack Obama and Jim Himes. It will take place from 7 to 11 PM at the Continental Manor, with many dignitaries listed on the invitation. For more information contact Will Fulton at 203 322 1490.

I’m sure there are other big parties around the state, but I don’t have any further details. For those looking for other gatherings, Move-On is encouraging its members to Host an Inaugural Bash. You can find events already listed, which includes some of the events above at Move-On’s site.

Yet there is much more to the inauguration of a new President than simply parties. The Presidential Inauguration Committee is asking each of us to do our part in rekindling our economy and addressing the problems of our country. President-elect Obama and Vice
President-elect Biden are launching a national organizing effort on the eve of their Inauguration to engage Americans in service. You can go to the the Committee’s website to create a new event, or find an event already being planned.

Already there are a variety of events planned in Connecticut. There are efforts to collect food and clothing for people in need across the state. There are learning opportunities, chances to help beautify cities and to work with the elderly.

So, if you can afford it, go to some of the great parties around the State or down in Washington to celebrate the inauguration. But, if you want to make the celebration even more meaningful, join one of the service events being planned, or plan one yourself. Help make service to our fellow American’s a regular part of all our lives.