•Gerson on inaugural speech: "We're at the beginning of another generational struggle. It's to some extent a requirement of leadership for the president to inform Americans about that struggle and how we will proceed." [NYT]

• 5,000 volunteers make way to inaugural; lobbyists prepare for party circuit. [WP, NYT]

• "Celebration of democracy" almost ready; scalpers wait in the wings. [WP, NYT]

• Some Democrats leaving town or country during inauguration. [NYT]

• Not One Damn Dime participants want economic boycott on inauguration day. [BG]