Recession. What Recession?

That's a lot of balloons



AP - Sunday Jan 18, 2008 8:05 pm

– President-elect Barack Obama speaks during 'We Are One: Opening Inaugural Celebration at the Lincoln …

As the recession continues to wreak havoc on the U.S. economy and inauguration celebrations ramp up, a lot of people are asking: "How much will this shindig cost?"

The short answer? Likely more than $150 million — and yep, that would be the most expensive ever. (By comparison, George W. Bush's 2005 inauguration cost $42.3 million. Bill Clinton managed with $33 million in 1993.)

Obama's much-discussed (and very cool-looking) custom Cadillac limo certainly couldn't come cheap, though we'll never really know how much it cost. Cadillac spokesman David Caldwell said the car's exact specifications are a big secret, including the safety features and production cost.

But Forbes reports it's not all flak jackets and armored cars:

To manage an event of this scale, the District of Columbia will spend a mammoth $47 million. It is not enough.... Much of the $45 million will go toward creating a dynamic Inauguration experience for the everyday visitor, not just funding exclusive events. "We don't even consider these events to be extravagant," says Linda Douglas, a spokeswoman from the Presidential Inauguration Committee. "With crowds of this size, most of our attention is being devoted to opening up as many events to the public."

---My thougths---Over 3 Million people who've lost their jobs, Unemployment almost to double digit proportions, $700 Billion in bailout money a couple months ago, another $750 Billion wanted by the President Elect, and what are we chosing to spend our money on.... A BIG PARTY!!! I never thought I would say this, but, man do I miss "Slick Willy." (Bill Clinton)