Westside Gathers to Watch Obama's State of the Union

Democratically inclined Angelenos from Calabasas to Pacific Palisades gathered at in the Palisades Tuesday night for President Barack Obama's State of the Union address.

, hosted by a local democratic group made up of Malibu, Pacific Palisades and Topanga Canyon residents, was an effort to bring the community together as the election year kicks off.

"It is a way for enthusiastic democrats to volunteer their time in order to re-elect Obama," said grad student and event organizer Alexis Aria. "People came from bordering towns to participate and it was so thrilling to have close to 65 people show up this evening."

The watch party took place in the restaurant's back room where they had both a large television and a projection screen, so the audience could watch the address from multiple angles.

However, the evening wasn't just about politics, it was about a sense of togetherness, according to Ryan Newcomb, the owner of Mogan's Cafe.

"We had music from the band with kids, then everyone had half an hour to mingle before they sat down to watch the address," said Newcomb. "We also offered a set menu for everyone with four options to choose from, so they could come together as a community to watch."

Malibu resident Ron Kramer came to support Obama. He said he didn't want to just watch it at home, he wanted a little more interaction.

"There is a great sense of camaraderie when we are all in the same room," said Kramer. "I think that Obama is doing a great job and is taking this country in the right direction for the first time in a long time. So far I am happy with everything I have heard him say. It is nice to share the same feelings with the people I am surrounded by."

Aria and Newcomb told Patch they may collaborate again for a fundraiser in the future. In the meantime, Aria said the democratic group meets every Sunday in the Palisades from 4-5 p.m. and that anyone who would like to get involved with campaign efforts should visit the Barack Obama website.