George Bush
Inaugural Balls and Galas

According to the Sunday, December 31st New York Times, George W. and his inauguration committee are taking care of business. The Texas Ball promises to have real food (which is something different, trust me) and over 8,000 people are expected to attend.

In case you haven't heard, there's been some heat on Mr. Bush about what's being spent, but hey, this is THE inauguration, and it isn't like whoever won after everything that went on doesn't deserve one big shindig.

The Texas Black Tie and Boots Ball (check out our version) is being held at the Marriott Wardman Park Hotel on Friday night not Saturday. It isn't an "official" ball, and tickets for this Texas ball cost only $125 for members of the Texas State Society and $175 for others—which is CHEAP by most standards. Another Internet source says the tickets are $950—go figure. There are also some Friday night balls and galas for $400-$500 and the Saturday night balls are running $400 to $900.

It depends on the ticket broker you use, I am sure, but it seems that the going price for a seat at the parade is $175-$350. To have a seat at the swearing in ceremony, you only need pay $350 to $850; standing room only is going for $200 (and only another 169,999 people will be standing there in the bitter freezing cold along with you—of course, that's an estimate).

For those of you who are interested in attending, all you need do is pay for a ticket. For reservations, tickets and information, one number you can call is (800) 969-9991. Unless you are friends with a congressman or senator—over half of the 200,000 tickets distributed go to them!

But before you make your plans, realize that it might not all be sunshine and roses. The Secret Service and other federal and local authorities are ready for possible disruptions caused by unhappy voters. According to an article in the Washington Post, some groups will wreak havoc while others will be peaceful…but all plan to protest during the parade and other inauguration activities.

What to Wear to the Balls and Galas

You may want to get all decked out. But before you do that, read the Party Girl's article on the Clinton Inaugural Balls in 1992. My suggestion to you is to be comfortable!!

On the other hand, if you're planning to attend all of the festivities, you may want to bring some extra cash for the street vendors who will be selling t-shirts, buttons, golf caps and more. You can deck yourself out with "W. is for Winner!" bumper stickers and more so when Mr. Bush's motorcade goes by at the parade he'll definitely notice you!

Etiquette

If you do attend a ball, approaching anyone that isn't a politician is probably déclassé. The celebrities are there to celebrate, just like you, so you may want to steer clear and remember you are there for W., not for Rush Limbaugh's autograph!

For more information on Inauguration Balls and Galas go to www.inauguralevents.com.

See the Party411 Clinton Farewell Party
See the Party411 Stars & Stripes Inaugural Ball
See the Party411 Texas Black Tie & Boots Bash

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