The 2013 Presidential Inauguration

January 25, 2013

Washington, DC

Douglas Graney has been a Social Studies teacher for 28 years, and has spent the last 21 at Herndon High School in Virginia. On January 21, 2013, he attended the Inauguration of President Barack Obama in Washington, DC, with some of his students.

I became a Social Studies teacher because: I love American history.

My favorite DC museum is: While not technically a museum, I love walking in the Capitol; the Rotunda, Statuary Hall, Crypt, House and Senate galleries, etc.

I went here to: See the 2nd Inauguration of President Obama. I also attended the first term inaugurations of Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush. I had the opportunity to bring some of my students and I was happy they could attend.

I traveled here with: My cousin, Dr. Joe Graney, along with Herndon High Students Nadine (German exchange student), Deusama, Sayma, Carina and Tammi.

The best way to travel here is: By car, if you leave early enough and reserve a parking spot beforehand.

Be sure to pack: Water and warm clothes.

The best thing I ate was: Pastry at Rep. Jose Serrano’s reception after the inauguration.

When I travel here, I always eat at: Tortilla Coast - great Mexican food.

I wish I hadn't: No regrets, it was a great fun.

Don't miss: Checking out all the interesting things the sidewalk vendors are selling.

Next time I will definitely: Go again and wear warmer shoes.

My favorite part of the trip was: Watching the reactions of my students to everything that was going on.

My advice would be: Go, it is worth all the logistical challenges.