Reflections: An Inauguration Day Parade Of Fashion!

 

Reflections On The Inauguration: Trump 2.0

Now that a couple of days have passed, some reflections on the Inauguration:

Majestic setting: The Rotunda! It gave the whole event a proper and inspiring sense of majesty. 

Best opening prayer: Reverend Franklin Graham's stirring  plea to the Almighty was passionate, heartfelt and unabashedly Christian, invoking Jesus Christ Himself. By comparison, Cardinal Dolan's prayer was ordinary and mostly uninspired.

Overwhelming moment I: Christopher Macchio's operatic tenor delivering the stirring "O, America!" This was a masterstroke.

Overwhelming moment II: The US Naval Academy Glee Club marching in and delivering the classic "Battle Hymn of  The Republic." Lincoln was in the room!

Cutest moment: Vice President J. D. Vance's kids brought up to the podium to witness their dad take the oath. Precious!

Poignant moment: Vance's mother watching him take the oath while his wife, Usha, beaming with pride, held the Bible. 

Stunning entrance: Melania. No one can top her! 

Most intriguing: Barron. What did he say to Joe Biden?

Bumbler in chief: Seemingly clueless Chief Justice John Roberts rushed the presidential oath, beginning it before Melania had a chance to properly position the Bible as the Trump clan jockeyed for places. Putz!

Sourpuss: This was a tie between Kamala Harris, Laura Bush and Hillary Clinton and it was in abundance during Trump's address. But we'll give the edge to Harris. She actually seemed to be in pain atg times.

Seemed to be enjoying it all: Interestingly enough,  Bill Clinton. He appeared to be relaxed, smiling, genuinely engaged, comfortable, even pleased. Bubba gets that this is theater, and he's on.

Lone wolf: Barack Obama, again! What's going on (or not going on) between him and Michelle? 

Big slob: John Fetterman. His failure to dress for the occasion (again!) is an insult to the institution, the nation, our storied history, everything and everyone! Disgusting!

Spectacular save: Carrie Underwood sang the National Anthem a capella after a technical glitch and delivered it with aplomb!

Beatific benediction: Rev. Lorenzo Sewell of Detroit roused the crowd as he channeled Dr. Martin Luther King on King Day with a peroration that reaches a breathtaking crescendo. Yowza!

And It's Gonna Be Lots Of Fun, Too!

I promise the Trump Cake Sword Dance is the greatest one minute of all time 🤣🤣🤣
I love this man lol. pic.twitter.com/fO1nYDk7ct

— Ben Jiles (@BenSJiles) January 21, 2025

Last Night, This Moment Was Positively Magical!

There’s no doubt about how stunning the gown looked on the statuesque First Lady of Slovenian origin

Melania remains one of the most beautiful First Ladies in the history of the United States 🇺🇸pic.twitter.com/aofopI2Lm3

— Mambo Italiano (@mamboitaliano__) January 21, 2025

A Truly Momentous Moment In American History!

 

America Is Back, Beginning Right NOW!

🇺🇸🇺🇸 YES! 😎 🇺🇸🇺🇸 https://t.co/3JYxxyicMa

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 20, 2025

It's Gonna Happen In Moments, Thank God!

PLEASE BE PATIENT… pic.twitter.com/KvhFiE8C8v

— 𝔹𝕦𝕕 & ℂ𝕒𝕤𝕖𝕪… (@bud_cann) January 19, 2025

WOW! Hispanic Inaugural Ball Makes History!

The Official Hispanic Inaugural Ball made history Saturday night, recognized as the largest and most impactful gathering of Hispanic leaders ever held during an inaugural weekend. Cited by Politicoas a “defining moment of the 2025 inauguration season,” the event welcomed over 2,000 attendees at the renowned Omni Shoreham Hotel, in addition to the nearly 4,000 individuals on the waitlist, underscoring the overwhelming enthusiasm for President Trump’s inauguration and this landmark celebration.

Abraham Enriquez, founder and president of Bienvenido, the organization behind the ball, captured the spirit of the evening, stating: “This ball was more than a celebration—it was a testament to the transformative role Hispanic Americans played in President Trump’s historic re-election and the critical role we will play in his governing coalition. The overwhelming success of tonight's event reflects the tremendous enthusiasm for President Trump’s agenda and the enduring commitment of our community to shared values, like patriotism, prosperity, and the American Dream.”

Leaders, dignitaries, and cultural icons from across the Americas came together to honor the values of opportunity, patriotism, and cultural pride that define the Hispanic community. This historic event highlighted the pivotal role Hispanic Americans played in President Donald J. Trump’s re-election, during which he earned the highest share of Hispanic votes ever for a Republican presidential candidate.

Highlights of the Evening

The evening’s program featured an impressive lineup of speakers and performers:

• Vivek Ramaswamy, entrepreneur and co-leader of the forthcoming Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), delivered a stirring tribute to freedom and innovation before introducing President Javier Milei of Argentina, whose rousing address highlighted the importance of liberty and economic reform.
• President Santiago Peña of Paraguay followed with remarks emphasizing strengthening U.S.-Latin American ties and deepening economic collaboration.
• Additional speakers included Senator Bernie Moreno, Senator Ted Cruz, Secretary of Health and Human Services nominee Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and Donald Trump Jr., who closed out the evening by highlighting the historic importance of Hispanic Americans to his father’s re-election and their critical contributions to the country.

The program also included electrifying performances by Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán, Grammy-nominated artist Gusi, and Los 3 de Habana, who brought the celebration to life and energized attendees.

A Celebration of Hispanic Leadership

The ball was hosted by Bienvenido, a leading organization amplifying Hispanic voices within the conservative movement. The event was made possible by title sponsors:

• Bienvenido Empresarios, advocating for Hispanic entrepreneurs and expanding economic opportunity.
• Grupo Salinas, an innovative corporate leader transforming industries across Latin America, including finance and media.

Other sponsors included VOZ Media, Fox Noticias, Latino Wall Street, and the United States Hispanic Business Council, whose support was instrumental to the evening’s success.

This groundbreaking event celebrated both President Donald J. Trump’s second term and the historic contributions of Hispanic Americans to his re-election victory. By fostering opportunity, championing patriotism, and celebrating achievements, the Official Hispanic Inaugural Ball set a new standard for leadership and unity during an inaugural weekend.

President Trump Victory Rally LIVE Here!

Inaugurations? They're Actually Quite Me$$y Affaifrs

On the eve of another presidential inauguration it's worth remembering a couple that we've actually attended.

Since we were long time contributors to the campaigns of both Presidents Bush and President Reagan we not only gained status as a Life Members of the Republican National Committee but also got to attend both inaugurations of George W. Bush and the related inaugural events including the gala inaugural balls.

Here's the deal on the inauguration: though the official swearing-in* is open to the public, you won't really get close to much of what's happening (or see very much, for that matter) unless you're willing to shovel over Really Big Bucks. Inaugural weekend and its events are strictly and relentlessly pay-to- play. And this has been true for both Democrat and Republican inaugurations.

In 2000 and 2004 we scored official seated tickets to the inauguration and our wonderful congressman at the time (Jim Saxton) also invited us to a private breakfast at the Capitol Hill Club. From the breakfast we had to make our way through a long, meandering line down to the front of the Capitol and through many various security checkpoints. Of course, the security was tightened post 9/11 in 2004 and that made things even more complicated. We can only imagine what it's like today.

It's usually bitterly cold on inauguration day and when you get to your seats (narrow folding chairs arranged in long rows on  soggy turf) you're looking way up to the inaugural platform which seems almost suspended in the sky. Translation: best to watch the proceedings on a nearby Jumbotron screen.

In 2004 we attended the popular Black Tie and Boots Ball sponsored by the Texas State Society and that was a mob scene in the cavernous old Marriott Wardman Park but rubbing elbows with rowdy Texans celebrating one of their own was fun. The traditional Texas swing group Asleep At The Wheel provided the music.We also dined at a well-known Chinese restaurant that was a Bush family favorite. We figured since George H. W. Bush had been Ambassador to China this would be a good pick. It was!

On the night of the inaugurations we attended the official inaugural balls in 2000 and 2004. On 2004 we gained entry to the most sought-after event, the Texas Wyoming Inaugural Ball. The balls are scattered at various venues around the city and the President and First Lady travel from one to another, dance a bit on stage and then leave. People mostly stand around and wait for the President to arrive, though there is entertainment and dancing but not a lot of room on the dance floor. 

At both inaugural balls it was fun to see President and Mrs. George W. Bush dance to Waltz Across Texas.  As for food, forget about it. You'd best eat before or after the ball and you can expect a cash bar on site. Inaugural Ball tickets run anywhere from several hundred dollars (that was then) into the thousands (more likely now) and they are scooped up quickly by donors.

There are many, many social events in Washington scattered over the inaugural weekend and most are pricey as they are used as fund raisers for various groups or, if they are "free" they are actually exclusively for the best customers and clients of big law firms, banks, corporations, interest groups, etc. Everything is highly stratified and the criteria is money, pure and simple.

Hotel rooms within DC proper are ridiculously priced; taxis and Ubers are impossible to find; pricey limos and ride services must be booked far in advance and the metro is jammed.

On top of all this you can expect massive detours and street closures, crushing crowds in and out of events and possible protests and demonstrations. Unless you have friends in DC who are willing to put you up for the weekend, or you know influential people who are willing to foot the bill, you should plan on spending mightily these days to participate in all the inauguration has to offer. But it remains a once-in-a-lifetime, bucket list event for many and the quadrennial spell that it casts has endured.

*This year's swearing-in of Donald J. Trump as our 47th President is not open to the general public as it has been moved indoors due to the extreme cold. President Trump is welcoming his supporters to a free rally this evening at the Cap Center Arena in Washington.

Hey America, THE COUNTDOWN IS ON!

Trump Inauguration

Trump Announces Inauguration Moving INDOORS!

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These Bibles To be Used For Inaugural Oaths . . .

Today, the Trump Vance Inaugural Committee announced the Bibles for the 60th Presidential Inauguration. The ceremonies will culminate with President Donald J. Trump's historic swearing-in. 

President-elect Trump will use his Bible, which was given to him by his mother, and the Lincoln Bible. In 1955, he received this Bible to mark his Sunday Church Primary School graduation at First Presbyterian Church, in Jamaica, New York. The Bible is a 1953 revised standard version published by Thomas Nelson and Sons in New York and is embossed with his name on the lower portion of the front cover. The inside cover is signed by church officials and inscribed with the President's name and details of when it was presented.

 

In addition to President Trump's Bible, the Lincoln Bible will be used for this historic ceremony. The Lincoln Bible was first used on March 4, 1861, for the swearing-in of the 16th president. It has only been used three times since, by President Obama at each of his inaugurations and by President Trump at his first inauguration in 2017. The burgundy velvet-bound book is part of the collections of the Library of Congress.

 

The Vice President-elect will use a family Bible that belonged to his maternal great-grandmother. His “Mamaw” Bonnie presented it to him on September 22, 2003, the day he left home for the Marine Corps Recruit Depot in Paris Island, South Carolina. The Bible is a King James Version published by Thomas Nelson and Sons.

A Preview Of Monday's BIG EVENT!

HOLY SMOKES.

Trump's inaugural platform at the Capitol looks amazing.

History changes in FOUR days. 🔥pic.twitter.com/4D43bV0aua

— johnny maga (@_johnnymaga) January 16, 2025

Performers Announced For Trump 47 Inauguration

- January 15th, 2025 -

Trump Vance Inaugural Committee Announces Performers for Presidential Inauguration

The Trump Vance Inaugural Committee is proud to announce the musical lineup for the 60th Presidential Inauguration Weekend, a historic celebration featuring performances from some of the nation’s most iconic and beloved artists. The musical performers include Eight-time Grammy Award winning country music superstar Carrie Underwood, the legendary band, The Village People, the return of the country music trio, Rascal Flatts, award winning rising country music star Parker McCollum, and American Tenor Christopher Macchio, among others.   “The Trump Vance Inaugural Committee is proud to announce that some of our nation’s most iconic musicans will be participating in the inaugural celebrations. This monumental weekend will commemorate President Trump’s historic victory and the 60th Presidential Inauguration with a celebration of music, unity, and patriotism, ushering in America’s new Golden Age,” said Co-Chairs Steve Witkoff and Kelly Loeffler, Trump Vance Inaugural Committee, Inc.   The full list of music performers and their respective events can be found below:    The Swearing-in ceremony:  Eight-time Grammy Award winner and country music superstar Carrie Underwood - “America the Beautiful” American Tenor Christopher Macchio - National Anthem Grammy Award winning singer-songwriter Lee Greenwood  The Make America Great Again Victory Rally Award winning multiplatinum singer songwriter Kid Rock Legendary American disco band The Village People Grammy Award winning singer-songwriter Billy Ray Cyrus Grammy Award winning singer-songwriter Lee Greenwood Liberty University's Praise Choir  The Liberty Ball Award winning multiplatinum singer and songwriter Jason Aldean Legendary American disco band The Village People Surprise musical guest  The Commander-in-Chief Ball Award winning country music band Rascal Flatts Award winning country music singer songwriter Parker McCollum  The Starlight Ball  American singer songwriter Gavin DeGraw

Inaugural Parade Participants Announced!

- January 13th, 2025 -

Trump Vance Inaugural Committee Announces Presidential Parade Participants

The Trump Vance Inaugural Committee is pleased to announce the initial list of groups that have accepted an invitation to participate in the annual Presidential Inaugural Parade, which will be held on January 20, immediately following the swearing in of President Donald J. Trump and Senator J.D. Vance. Nearly 7,500 participants from 23 states represent Americans from all walks of life, including a variety of veterans groups, first responders, high school and university marching bands, and equestrian groups.    As is tradition, each branch of the United States Armed Forces will also be represented.     “The committee is grateful and overwhelmed by the outpouring of interest from Americans across the country seeking to participate in one of our nation’s most important and longstanding traditions. With upwards of 7,500 participants joining in the Presidential Inaugural Parade, we are thrilled to honor our country and begin America’s new Golden Era,” said co-chairs Steve Witkoff and Kelly Loeffler, Trump Vance Inaugural Committee, Inc.    “We are deeply honored to be chosen to participate in this national event,” said Jesse Grapes, president of parade newcomers the Benedictine Schools of Richmond. “This opportunity reflects the discipline, commitment and character of our Cadets and underscores the core values of leadership and service that define our school, and larger school community.”    “What we did together at the Butler Farm Show Grounds as first responders, police and pre-hospital emergency teams on that terrible day in July is what we are trained to do in Butler County every day: protect and save lives.   We are forever changed by the devastating loss of our fellow first responder Corey Comperatore.  We hope all Americans will pause today to remember the bravery and sacrifice of their own first responders and police, the expertise of their 911 dispatchers, and the skill of their local hospital emergency and medical staff and emergency management agencies.   We are honored to be here to represent them all, and immensely proud to salute our fellow life-savers nationwide by marching together in the Inaugural Parade today," said Butler County First Responders.   Inaugural parades are a long-lived tradition -- dating back to President Washington’s first election, when impromptu crowds of supporters followed and cheered behind him as he traveled from Mount Vernon to New York City. Presidents Adams and Jefferson also had spontaneous parades, which continued until the inauguration of President James Madison in 1809, when they became an official part of the event.     Selected participants are listed below in their marching order.     United States Army   Butler County First Responders - Butler, Pennsylvania  NYPD Emerald Society Pipes & Drums - New York, New York  New York Military Academy - Cornwall on Hudson, New York  Florida Firefighters Pipes and Drums - Boca Raton, Florida  America’s Patriotic Tractor - West Des Moines, Iowa  Stewarts Creek High School Band - Smyrna, Tennessee  Loadmaster Corporation - Norway, Michigan  U.S. Customs and Border Protection - National Organization    U.S. Marines  Middletown High School Marching Band & Cheerleaders - Middletown, Ohio  Palm Beach Police & Fire Honor Guard Unit - Palm Beach, Florida  Albertville High School Aggie Band - Albertville, Alabama  Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) - Arlington, Virginia   Liberty University “Spirit of the Mountain” Marching Band - Lynchburg, Virginia  Navajos 4 Trump - Show Low, Arizona  Scripps Miramar Ranch - San Diego, California     U.S. Navy  Fork Union Military Academy - Fork Union, Virginia  Ross Volunteer Company of the Texas A&M Corps of Cadets - College Station, Texas  Lowndes High School “Georgia Bridgemen” Marching Band - Valdosta, Georgia  Culver Academies Black Horse Troop & Equestriennes - Culver, Indiana   Premiere Transportation - Brentwood, Tennessee  Texas High School Tiger Band - Texarkana, Texas  Montana State University Rodeo Team - Belgrade, Montana    U.S. Air Force  Pipes & Drums of the Blue & Gold - Holly, New Jersey  Mobile Azalea Trail Maids - Mobile, Alabama  The Citadel Regimental Band and Pipes, & Summerall Guards - Charleston, South Carolina  Merced County Sheriff's Posse - Hilmar, California   Missouri State University Pride Marching Band - Springfield, Missouri  Lunar Outpost - Arvada, Colorado  Sherwood Groves Belgian 6-Horse Hitch - Tunkhannock, Pennsylvania     U.S. Coast Guard   Mississippi Valley State University - Itta Bena, Mississippi  Richard Petty’s 1970 Superbird - Randleman, North Carolina   Benedictine College Preparatory - Richmond, Virginia  American Tap Company - North Andover, Massachusetts  1st Cavalry Division Horse Cavalry Detachment - Fort Cavazos, Texas    U.S. Merchant Marines Academy  Diamond D Cowgirls - Covington, Georgia  Shivam Dhol Tasha Pathak - Plano, Texas  Las Vegas Police Protective Association - Las Vegas, Nevada  Virginia Military Institute - Lexington, Virginia

Official Announcement Of Inaugural Events

- January 13th, 2025 -  Trump Vance Inaugural Committee Announces Inaugural Schedule of Events   Today, the Trump Vance Inaugural Committee released the schedule of official events for the 60th Presidential Inauguration. The official portion of the Inauguration will begin with a celebration and reception at Trump National Sterling, which will include a large fireworks display. The ceremonies will culminate with the historic swearing in of President Donald J. Trump.    “President Trump is dedicated to uniting the country through the strength, security, and opportunity of his America First agenda,” said Co-Chairs Steve Witkoff and Kelly Loeffler, Trump Vance Inaugural Committee, Inc. “The 2025 inaugural celebrations will reflect President-elect Trump’s historic return to the White House and the American people’s decisive vote to Make America Great Again.”   The Committee also released an extensive schedule of inaugural events to be held over a four day celebration starting Saturday, January 18, including a fireworks display, several dinners honoring the President-elect, Vice-President-elect, and cabinet secretaries, a MAGA Victory Rally to recognize the American people, the historic swearing-in, the inaugural parade, and three inaugural balls.   Tickets and more information can be found at the PIC website at t47inaugural.com.    60th Presidential Inaugural  Schedule of Events   Saturday, January 18, 2025   The President’s Reception and Fireworks at Trump Sterling   Cabinet Reception and Vice President’s Dinner  Sunday, January 19, 2025  Arlington National Cemetery Ceremony Wreath laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Make America Great Again Victory Rally President Donald J. Trump Delivers Remarks Candlelight Dinner President Donald J. Trump Delivers Remarks Monday, January 20, 2025  St. John’s Church Service  Tea at the White House  Swearing-In Ceremony US Capitol Farewell to the Former President and Vice President   US Capitol Departure Ceremony  The President’s Signing Room Ceremony  JCCIC Congressional Luncheon   The President’s Review of the Troops   Presidential Parade  Pennsylvania Avenue   Oval Office Signing Ceremony at The White House   Commander in Chief Ball President Donald J. Trump Delivers Remarks  Liberty Inaugural Ball President Donald J. Trump Delivers Remarks  Starlight Ball President Donald J. Trump Delivers Remarks  Tuesday, January 21, 2025  National Prayer Service

An Important Statement From Carrie Underwood

Carrie Underwood’s statement on performing at President Trump’s inauguration:

“I love our country and am honored to have been asked to sing at the Inauguration… I am humbled to answer the call at a time when we must all come together in the spirit of unity and looking to the future.”

Continuing To Make History Every Single Day!

🚨Team Trump just dropped a new video.

18 days 🔥
pic.twitter.com/PJojW3ifD4

— Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) January 2, 2025

January 20 Can't Come Soon Enough!