Hail to the new chief ... in Boston

Not only can I not make it to D.C. to cheer on the big O, I can barely even snag the tv from my sick child home with a fever to watch him in HD. If the child was in school where I am praying he will be tomorrow, I would most definitely high-tail it to Boston for one of three fantastic Obama parties.

Upstairs at the Square in Cambridge is hosting an all-day Inauguration celebration. A free fireside breakfast from 8-10 a.m - hurry - you're not too late - will start the day. A 3-course $20.09 Bail-out luncheon to follow, and then a Swearing-in-the-Afternoon bar specials will get you prepared for the beautiful choice of dinners priced at $44 in honor of our 44th president. A ballroom dance follows. Call 617-864-1933 in a hurry to see if there is space. Tell the boss you're sick too, and go go go.

If you feel the need to stay at the job today, call 617-822-1918 for reservations to Tavolo's bipartisan Inauguration Night Gala from 7-11 p.m. $20 cover charge includes pizzas, crostinis and antipasto, as well as dancing and DJ tunes. Cash bar features signature drinks like Change-a-tinis and Obama Slamas. Creative black tie or red, white and blue ensembles are encouraged.

Lastly, French-Alsatian bistro Sandrine's, will 'stimulate' your appetite with their "Economic Stimulus" dinner. Apps are $5-10 and every entrée is $15-22 -- sweets are just $6. Call ahead for reservations at 617-497-5300.

Go big O!