Dems still working on inauguration plans

Tar Heel Democrats are eager to get to Washington for Barack Obama's inauguration and all the parties that will go with it.

But officials with the state Democratic Party say they will have to cool those tar heels for a bit.

Kerra Bolton, a spokeswoman for the state party, says they have received "a ton" of phone calls and e-mails from people seeking information about Obama's inauguration.

But she says none of the details have been worked out for that or for Beverly Perdue's inauguration for governor.

She says folks should check the party's Web site for details, but asked for some understanding about the time it may take.

After all, she pointed out, it's been awhile since a Democratic president had his initial inauguration.

"The last time was 16 years ago," she said.

Update: Bolton warns Democrats against online ticket scams. She urged people to be patient and work through the Obama campaign or the state party to get their tickets.

Another update: Bolton just passed along some additional information that she received this afternoon. Of note:

- The N.C. Democratic Party will not receive an allotment of hotel rooms or tickets. Tickets to the ceremony itself will be primarily distributed by members of Congress and the Obama campaign.

- Receiving an invitation is not the same as receiving a ticket. Just  because you receive an invitation to come to Washington does not mean you have a ticket to get in to some of the events.

- The state party is trying to line up a block of hotel rooms for its folks, but is advising people to seek a room on their own. And they say to be prepared for sticker shock - most hotels are requiring a four-night minimum with rates ranging from $400-700 a night.