Two reporters from the Portland Press Herald were in Washington yesterday for the festivities.

First off, our cyber-friend Justin Ellis doesn't sound like he had a great time: "Chance to see history trumps D.C. hassles" and "From front row to way in back, a shared thrill".

Secondly, Bill Nemitz has two very interesting personal stories from Washington: "For mayor of Auburn, a remarkable current event" and "Maine airman who felt sting of bias rides in parade".