Annals of Marketing: Inauguration Satiation

The inauguration of Barack Obama is quickly taking shape as a monumental event: a record-breaking 2 million people are estimated to descend on Washington, DC, to witness the ceremony, MSNBC has announced it plans to carry a simulcast live in movie theaters across the nation, and the television broadcast could be one of the most-watched events ever on TV.

Naturally, it has spawned a small industry of marketing gimmicks to exploit the surge of attention being directed at January 20th. And, according to a series of new promotions, it looks like the food industry is getting in on the act, too.

For the fromage-loving politico, the venerable cheese monger Murray's Cheese has created a special package of American-made cheeses "chosen just for this historical occasion!"

The GObama Spread ($60 for 4 to 8 guests) includes "rich Meadow Creek Grayson hailing from DC-neighboring Virginia, mushroomy Constant Bliss (named for a Revolutionary War scout!), supple Tomme de Brebis from Hope Farm, and economically-sound (and delicious!) Sole Gran Queso. Mix it up with spicy Windy City Wasabeans and crunchy Urban Oven Crackers." Enjoy rich Meadow Creek Grayson hailing from DC-neighboring Virginia, mushroomy Constant Bliss (named for a Revolutionary War scout!), supple Tomme de Brebis from Hope Farm, and economically-sound (and delicious!) Sole Gran Queso. Mix it up with spicy Windy City Wasabeans and crunchy Urban Oven Crackers."

Need something to drink with that?

I recently received a press release from Grey Goose with recipes for three "presidential cocktails": the honey and citrus infused "Inaugural Partini" ("garnish with star anise and relish with pride"), "Obama On My Mind, a blend of vodka, vermouth, and blood oranges ("top with sparkling wine for a drink that's as promising as America's future," and "Barack's Cooler," a blend of vodka and pomegranate juice ("present with orange zest. Toast with zeal").

If you plan to dine out on the big day, Savoy restaurant is featuring a menu of "passed hors d'oeuvres that represent some of the greatest hits of Chicago food, prepared by Chef Ryan Tate (who hails from the Windy City): deep dish pizza, wieners with cucumber relish, and "Second City" smoked BBQ." Savoy's sister restaurant Back Forty will hold a dance party at Back Forty: "Snacks will be served at a buffet table and passed by waiters, and a selection of cocktails and beers (including 'Hop Obama' Ale from Sixpoint Craft Ales) will be for sale at the cash bar." A portion of the proceeds will support the non-profit Brennan Center for Justice.