Johnson City Residents Turn Out For Own Inaugural Ball

• JOHNSON CITY — Inaugural parties in Washington surely could not exceed the level of excitement inside a Johnson City party hall Tuesday night as about 650 locals gathered to celebrate what many consider the most historic moment in America. The Celebration of Hope and Change, sponsored by local Democrats, opened the doors at 6 p.m. at The Russo Orleans on Sunset Drive and was the only known organized presidential inauguration party for miles around, coordinators said. Attendees included people of all ages and political involvement. Friends Dee Hupp, Kathy Ayers and Delanna Reed said they wanted to attend the celebration because it represents such a monumental time in history. “This is the second best thing we could do,” Hupp said. “I couldn’t go to Washington. ... It’s wonderful to be able to celebrate this with so many people who are excited and happy to be unified again.”