Jacquelyn Jackson always told her children they could grow up to be anything they wanted – even president of the United States. But deep down, she didn’t believe it was true.

“As an African American, I always knew there were restrictions. I didn’t really believe an African American could be elected president,” said the Irvine resident, one of dozens of people crowded into the 30 Minute Photos store for a community party.

On Tuesday morning, Jacquelyn was joined by her daughter, son-in-law, son and 7-month-old grandson as the doubt finally lifted and Barack Obama was sworn in as 44th president of the United States.

“My feeling now is, my kids don’t have to lie to their children,” Jackson said. “Now, when I look at my grandson, I can actually see it happening. Before, it was a hope, a prayer and a dream.”

Store owner Mitch Goldstone wanted to commemorate the day by bringing people together to watch the historic event. Erika Williams of Foothill Ranch was grateful for the gathering.

“I didn’t want to be by myself on a day like this,” said Williams, whose husband is out of town and whose daughters are living out of state. “We’re a biracial family and this is a special time. We all have to work together to make it happen.”

http://epaper.ocregister.com/Default/Scripting/ArticleWin.asp?From=Archive&Source=Page&Skin=OCW&BaseHref=OCWIrvineWorldNews/2009/01/21&EntityId=Ar00302&ViewMode=HTML