CITY BEAT CITY TALK  

As we look forward to the installation of our new President Barack Obama, let us reflect on how far our great country has come. We now know that no matter the color of one's skin, every person's dream can be achieved in the United States.

Where once resided hate and bigotry, we see America embracing and actually believing that "All men are created equal."

Our country has shown the world that we can move forward and right wrongs, change negatives into positives and give the world hope that all can be right with the world.

For too long, we have held onto old stereotypes based on ethnicity, race, religion or personal biases on economical stature and other ideas based on nothing more than ignorance of a people or culture.

We now see that it does not matter what race you are, or what belief you hold dear. All people can now dream that they too can be the head of our great nation if they so desire. America has proved beyond a shadow of doubt, that we truly are the home of the brave and the land of free. A freedom which indeed does extend to all people, anywhere.

As we move forward on this year ahead, let us all work for our country to rebuild itself in the eyes of the world. Let us assist our president in the transition from ignorance to prosperity of not only economic recovery, but of mind set and faith in our fellow man, no matter who he or she might be, or the color of their skin.

I thank all Americans who voted for President-Elect Obama, and tell you that the dream has not died, and that we as a nation have finally awakened to see that day that Martin Luther King Jr. envisioned dreamed and hoped for, and said, would come.

Ladies and gentlemen, that day is here!