Quotables

President Obama's inaugural speech:

“Homes have been lost; jobs shed; businesses shuttered. Our health care is too costly; our schools fail too many”

"Don't dismiss the symbolism..."

Chicago Tribune's John Kass quoting Tim Black:

Unlike some who raise expectations to manic heights, Obama has an extremely clear head. He's a rational man. He's not on Hopium. He's from Chicago. So is Dr. Timuel Black, 90 and of vital mind, the son of sharecroppers, a Chicago educator, civil rights activist and historian who like many is here in Washington to witness our new history.

"Certainly the symbolism of the inauguration is important," Black said. "Just think of all the mothers who'll sit with their sons and point to Barack Obama and say, 'This is what you can aspire to.' So you can't dismiss the symbolism. It is vitally important, and it speaks to pride, accomplishment and overcoming centuries of pain. I think of all the families here, and those watching at home, filling with pride at this unbelievable day."