The United States of America is the greatest nation in the world for many reasons, not least of which is that we always have a peaceful transition of power.  No matter how one voted, we can take pride that here, the candidates make their case and the people make their choice and nobody gets imprisoned or executed for it.

We say thank you to outgoing President Bush, and offer welcome and support to our incoming president, Barack Obama.  We also take pride in the unique historic nature of today’s events, and offer it as another example of our nation’s greatness.  One dream, anyway, is achieved.

This is the official Presidential portrait, taken by Pete Souza, Obama’s official White House photographer (who also worked at the Reagan White House).  It is the first official Presidential portrait taken by digital camera (Canon 5D Mk II, our camera of lust at the moment, State & Lake take note!).

Also: SGVTrib’s Ryan Carter interviews Altadenan Dolores Hickambottom, who is attending the inauguration.

UPDATE 9:30 AM: He’s not even off the podium, and President O. has issued his first proclamation, declaring this a National Day of Renewal and Reconciliation.   And there’s a blog!