Oklahomans Watch As Obama Makes History

By Dave Jordan, NEWS 9

OKLAHOMA CITY -- When Barack Obama takes the oath of office, it will fulfill a dream that many weren't sure would come true in their lifetime.

John Shaw said it was never a question of whether Senator Barack Obama was qualified to be president. The 72-year-old just didn't think he'd make it that far.

"I never did expect to see a black man in office, high office," Shaw said.

NEWS 9's Charles Bassett in D.C.

"Bush disappointed me so bad, I just refused to vote," Shaw said. "I wouldn't even register."

Evelyn LaBrew wasn't just pleased with Obama's candidacy, but was also impressed by his broad appeal.

"I was so happy about that," LaBrew said. "I thought that was something special that all kinds of people voted for him."

Kerry Chandler, a life-long democrat felt Barack Obama was reminiscent of the Kennedy era. The 59-year-old responded to Obama's message of change.

"I think the people were ready for a change of any kind," Chandler said.

Shaw, LaBrew and Chandler said they plan on tuning into Obama's Inauguration, including the swearing-in ceremony.