by Dalley Hughes

Created on: January 27, 2009

The remarkably historic Inauguration Day of January 20, 2009 was chosen as an occasion to celebrate the collective bounty of our nation, with a toast to democracy. Politics were said to be "put aside," and America's first African-American president, Barack Obama, was now commander-in-chief. The world's watchful eye would have an opportunity to view the inaugural events that were televised. They would see bottles of wine being served at the inaugural luncheon, and depending on one's interest in the significance of this beverage choice, an opinion of such an action may or may not have had a reason to be formed. The impact of such, in the short term, is measurable for some; but, in the long term, its message is far reaching for many.

In considering who perhaps received the message that was sent by the choice of beverage for the luncheon, we might consider those who have the potential to realize the impact of the decisions, of our leaders, as examples.

As the beer swagger era stops for now, wine producers are certainly filled with glee, as they saw a great promotional opportunity. The Duckhorn Company which donated the 120 bottles of wine, served at the luncheon, was chosen by the chairwoman of the Joint Congressional Committee for Inaugural Ceremonies, Senator Dianne Feinstein. Being a Californian herself, Senator Feinstein saw this as an opportunity of the committee that hosted these ceremonies, to acknowledge California in the White House once again and to feature California wines. Senator Feinstein is a longtime ally of the wine industry and has promoted its interests on Capitol Hill.

John Gillespie, head of the Wine Market Council, has stated that he believes that the renewed interest in wine at the White House will have a "felicitous (delightful) effect," on America's drinking habits.

For the unemployed adult Americans, affected by the wine industry, the renewed interest can bring benefits of job security, good wages and perhaps raises. From the point of view that "drinking sociably" has acceptance, it can also result in negative effects such as loss of jobs, dysfunctional families and crime, as interest encourages greater intake of alcoholic beverages, by those who are not "responsible drinkers," and continue on to form addictions that consume them.

Youth are most impressionable, lacking the maturity to make an informed choice. As the inaugural luncheon is one of the most important and of interest televised events of the inauguration, it goes without saying, that any young person viewing the event, and taking notice of the bottles of wine being served might get the idea that drinking alcoholic beverages with your lunch (or any meal) is an okay way to celebrate anytime.

In view of the economic downturn, any American could question the expenditure of funds for such a luxury. Of course, we could remind them that the wine for the inaugural luncheon was donated; but, what about the implications of how our government celebrates? If it is "time for a change," shouldn't we all downsize our celebrations to do our part? Won't it take a team effort from all Americans to turn our economy around?

In contrast, the serving of wine at the inaugural luncheon can remind us that at important celebrations, such as this, it is a time to bring out the best, "to kill the fatted calf," "to turn the water into wine."

In consideration of the message we receive, we can also learn tolerance of other's views of issues and their practices thereof. A time for personal evaluation can also be helpful as we consider other's views and practices, ultimately deciding what is right for ourselves. We can truly be grateful for the rights and privileges, as Americans, we still have.

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