Tulsans Ready To Celebrate Inauguration

By Ashli Sims, News On 6

TULSA, OK -- You don't have to be in our nation's capital to take part in Barack Obama being sworn in as the nation's first black president.

There are watch parties, gatherings and an inaugural ball.

While all eyes are turning to President-elect Barack Obama among the marble and stone monuments of D.C. the Greenwood Cultural Center has rolled out the big screen and the party hats.

"We said, 'yes we can.' We thought it was a historical moment that we don't want to miss," said Marcene Mackey, North Tulsa Heritage Foundation.

They're capturing the moment in a place steeped in history. Before party-goers can walk in to celebrate the 44th President of the United States, they have to walk past a monument to an ugly chapter in Tulsa's history.

It was there in 1921 that one of the worst race riots in the country killed dozens and destroyed the vibrant center of the black community.

But rising from the ashes of hate, came hope and a day many thought would never come.

"Oh, I just get goose bumps really," said Mackey. "I wanna cry sometimes because I just think this is just so historical and just a memorable occasion."

"This is a big event and we wanted to be a part of it," said Amberla Tepe, Circle Cinema.

Circle Cinema, known for bringing independent and foreign films to the city, will be offering folks a front row seat to history. The theatre is opening both screens to bring Washington to you.

"And that's why we're here and why we do the things we do and show the films we show, to try to get the middle of the country involved in what is going on outside," said Tepe.

Mackey says her eyes will definitely be glued to the screen.

"We just look forward to having a great time here in Tulsa, while they're having a wonderful time there in Washington," said Mackey.

Doors open at the Greenwood Cultural Center located at 322 North Greenwood at 9:00 Tuesday morning. This is free to the public.

You do need tickets for the Inaugural Gala that starts at 6:30 Tuesday night.

Doors open at the Circle Cinema located at 12 South Lewis at 9:30 Tuesday morning. This is free to the public.

The News On 6's coverage begins Tuesday morning at 7:00 and continues throughout the day.

NewsOn6.com is making it easy to watch Barack Obama's inauguration ceremony from your computer.

Just click on Tuesday morning and look for the live streaming banner on the homepage.