Neighborhood Ball Excites Some Locals

WASHINGTON, DC (WUSA) - - The people who usually get to see a President and First Lady dance are movers and shakers themselves. Everyday citizens often are left off the exclusive guest lists for inauguration night events. The Presidential Inaugural Committee plans to make this year different with a Neighborhood Inaugural Ball.

"What we're trying to do is look for new avenues to make this the most open and accessible inauguration in history," said Kevin Griffis, spokesman for the Committee.

The Neighborhood Ball to be held at the Washington Convention Center the night of January 20th could be the first place people will see the Obamas dance.

"This is a way for us also to say thank you to the people of Washington, DC for making us your home for this inauguration, and for being so kind to us," said Griffis.

No well-known name or inside track is necessary to get tickets. The Committee plans to reserve some tickets for DC residents, give some tickets out for free and sell others at a reasonable price.

"This is something that will give the incentive for DC residents to leave their cars at home, get on Metro and come to a free event that's set aside for them. I think that's great," said Daniel Pernell, a District resident.

Other locals are equally excited about the chance to see the President and the First Lady. Roslyn Sanders says a ticket costing about $100 would be reasonable.

"I would love to go. I surely would. You come here tomorrow with the ticket and I'll be real happy," said Sanders, a Maryland resident.

The Neighborhood Ball will make history with an invitation for locals to attend. Planners also expect it to be the first to connect people to the Convention Center celebration with Internet and interactive components.

"We wanted to allow people across the country to take part in this. So, we're going to be having webcasts of this inaugural ball. We encourage people across the country to host their own inaugural balls," said Griffis.

Of course, even the Neighborhood Ball holds no appeal for some locals planning to spend the day and night at home.

"I've been through the Clinton inauguration and I kind of thought once was enough," said Richard Donohue.

The Presidential Inaugural Committee is still working out details on how tickets to the Neighborhood Ball will be distributed and sold.