Surprised no-one beat me to it. Check this one out:
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5g1nWr2gQuI1zQvW6fDS-IhpQhiCgD95N5KIO0Obama urges service around inauguration
3 days ago
WASHINGTON (AP) — President-elect Barack Obama said Wednesday that he wants his inauguration to be about more than him; it should be about getting all Americans involved in community service.
Obama, in a four-minute speech posted on the Internet, urged his supporters to volunteer for projects scheduled around his Jan. 20 ceremony. Obama, Vice President-elect Joe Biden and their families plan to participate in service projects in the Washington area Jan. 19.
"I am asking you to join us in that same spirit of service to others — no matter where you live," he said.
The president-elect also said that if everyone rolled up their sleeves, the country could improve: "At this defining moment in our history, it serves as our opportunity to come together in common purpose, united in our resolve to renew the promise of this nation and meet the challenges of our time."
An e-mail announcing the video message included a request for donations. Obama raised a record-shattering $745 million for his presidential bid, relying in part on his massive e-mail list. Obama has already raised $35 million for next week's inaugural events.
Obama's aides have posted thousands of volunteer opportunities on a Web site, USAService.org. Last week, Obama supporter and former Republican Secretary of State Colin Powell urged Americans to visit the site to find projects near them.
Obama made a similar appeal Wednesday, just days before his inauguration events are scheduled to begin.
"Because I'm not just asking you to take part in one day of service. I am asking you to make a lasting commitment to make better the lives of your fellow Americans — a commitment that must endure beyond one day, or even one presidency," Obama said.
Obama also announced that supporters can sign up to receive text messages about volunteer opportunities, traffic problems and event schedules. Organizers expect millions to visit Washington.
"Unprecedented numbers of Americans are planning to join us in Washington," Obama said. "That will mean long lines, a tough time getting around, and most of all, a lot of walking on what could be a very cold winter day."
He urged voters to send a text message with the word "open" to 56333 to receive quick updates about logistics in Washington during his events.
The U.S. Secret Service plans to close down more than 3 square miles of downtown on Inauguration Day. All bridges crossing the Potomac River into Washington also will be closed to personal vehicles. Some officials estimate that as many as 4 million people could visit Washington for the events.
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At least this time it's voluntary. Me, I'll be working.