Looking back on Obama, reading Times’ columnist for decades, and a big win.
Laguna Beach Independent, Jan. 19th
“15 years since Obama's first inauguration”
I can't believe it will be 15 years tomorrow since Barack Obama took the oath of office. Knowing how historic his inauguration was going to be, 25 of my Laguna friends and I began planning a special black-tie reception at [seven-degrees] a week after Obama was elected in November of 2008.
And what an event it was. First, the dressed-up crowd of 300 guests were in a very joyous mood. Second, gospel music was provided by a seven-member choir from Irvine's Christ Our Redeemer AME Church. That was followed by the reading of a poem created especially for the evening, and then upbeat tunes were performed by Soulfood locals Robert, Bara and Paul. Lastly, I had the honor of reminding everyone our votes really did count ... and that we all had done something truly memorable.
Today, we are entering another presidential election year. Clearly, there are going to be bumps in the road between now and next November. My hope is the winning candidate will do everything possible to unite all Americans. I'm sure this is what Barack Obama hopes will happen as well.
Denny Freidenrich, Laguna Beach
Los Angeles Times, Jan. 21st
“Congratulations to George Skelton on 50 years of covering California’s politics”
Skelton and I share a lot of common ground. By the time he arrived at The Times in 1974, I was beginning to find my voice as a writer. They say practice makes perfect, so imagine my surprise when Skelton quoted me in one of his columns years ago.
Today, The Times’ legendary columnist and I are in the fourth quarter of our lives. Despite our ages, I have to believe our days as writers are far from over.
I look forward to reading many more columns from Skelton, especially the ones where he cuts through “the political bull.”
Denny Freidenrich, Laguna Beach
49ers win last nite! I’m so glad football is a 60-minute game. At the 58-minute mark, I wasn’t sure who was going to come out on top.