Thousands attend opening ceremony watch party on South Side
Thousands attended a watch party on Chicago's South Side Thursday for the opening ceremony of the Obama Presidential Center.
Nancy Nettsi Hardy Rogers said she got there at 6 a.m. and was among the first allowed in.
"I am overwhelmed to see the people, the community come to the South Side of Chicago. I'm from the South Side, and I'm enjoying it," Nettsi Hardy Rogers said.
Music and dance parties popped up all over the lawn.
"Much fun, there was free food. My friends and I are dancing; it's a beautiful day. God blessed us with with a beautiful day," Laura Cabral said.
"It's been overwhelmingly fun; there's been dance. There have been all sorts of performers we would have never gotten to hear before all together," Karen Riel said.
Those who attended said they felt like they were part of what the Obamas created in Jackson Park.
"This has been electrifying; it is exciting to see all the growth and movement on the South Side. We're excited about the playground; we are excited about the library. It's a great place to be; it's just a ray of sunshine and hope," Lana McKinney said.
