LI students blog from the inauguration

Long Island students who traveled to Washington, D.C., for President Barack Obama’s inauguration are sending dispatches from the National Mall. From watching the morning sun’s rays touch the Washington Monument to breaking out hand-warmers in the near-freezing temperatures, here are their observations:

Justin Dobrow, 17, Selden, Newfield HS

I don’t think I’ve ever tried to conceive the idea when hundreds of thousands of people try and leave the National Mall and the chaos it would bring. Though there’s a sense of spirit surrounding us and high hopes for the road ahead.

Chloe Ott, 11, Merrick, Levy Lakeside School

We felt our hearts beating so hard. It was amazing. Everyone was so bundled up and the music was so loud. Me and Zoe both agree that it was such an honor representing our hometown.

Chloe Ott, 11, Merrick, Levy Lakeside School

I thought that Obama’s speech was heartwarming. And Beyonce is way better live.

James Reilly, 18, Levittown, Division Avenue HS

We did not get to see the inauguration, and we are leaving now. I did not see or hear any of the speeches, so I cannot comment on them. It is really disappointing to have come all this way and not have the opportunity to witness what I hoped to see.

Joeleen Moy, 17, Selden, Newfield HS

If you’ve never been to an inauguration, save the date in four years. Sure, it’s cold and crowded, but the overwhelming sense of camaraderie among strangers and feeling of just being an American is worth it all.

12:43 p.m.

Chloe Ott, 11, Merrick, Levy Lakeside School

When I look into the sky, all I see is flags waving proudly in the air.

12:41 p.m.

Justin Dobrow, 17, Selden, Newfield HS

Just witnessed Barack Obama getting sworn into office, the crowd is going wild! Cheers for Obama being heard from miles away.

Brianna Lilavois, 14, Central Islip, Gelinas Junior HS

I love the way Obama delivers his speech. He is so determined to get people to listen.

12:18 p.m.

Emily Doglio, 17, Levittown, Division Avenue HS

We waited from seven to twelve in the cold, but never got closer to the mall. D.C. is beautiful and inspiring, but we missed the ceremony!

Joeleen Moy, 17, Selden, Newfield HS

James Reilly, 18, Levittown, Division Avenue HS

We are still waiting to get through the gate. The line is moving extremely slow as there are only 3 or so lines for the metal detectors, but people are still waiting patiently.

11:36 a.m.

Gabrielle Schwind, 17, Levittown, MacArthur HS

We can’t get in, this was the most poorly planned event!! Wok & Roll HERE WE COME!!!!!

Gabrielle Schwind, 17, Levittown, MacArthur HS

Things are getting a tad crazy! People are chanting and there are no personal boundaries! The chances of getting in are looking really really slim!

11:07 a.m.

Emily Perun, 14, West Sayville, Sayville HS

We have been at the mall for about an hour. We’re standing in front of the CNN stage. Everyone is so excited! I can’t wait!

11:02 a.m.

Amanda Eikenes, 17, Smithtown, The Stony Brook School

Even though it’s early in the morning and freezing cold, people are in high spirits waiting for the inauguration to start! 

Chloe Ott, 11, Merrick, Levy Lakeside School

Justin Rosado, 17, Wantagh, MacArthur HS

Gabrielle Schwind, 17, Levittown, MacArthur HS

Justin Dobrow, 17, Selden, Newfield HS

Emily Perun, 14, West Sayville, Sayville HS

Gabrielle Schwind, 17, Levittown, MacArthur HS

Justin Dobrow, 17, Selden, Newfield HS

Justin Rosado, 17, Wantagh, MacArthur HS

James Reilly, 18, Levittown, Division Avenue HS

Emily Doglio, 17, Levittown, Division Avenue HS

Gabrielle Schwind, 17, Levittown, Division Avenue HS

Joeleen Moy, 17, Selden, Newfield HS

Justin Dobrow, 17, Selden, Newfield HS

Emily Perun, 14, West Sayville, Sayville HS

Claudia Benitez, 17, Roosevelt, Roosevelt HS

James Reilly, 18, Levittown, Division Avenue HS

Paula Palacios, 17, Roosevelt, Roosevelt HS