If you want to watch the star-studded inaugural ceremonies for the President-elect Obama, you have exactly one choice for the channel to watch it on: HBO. Don't worry, HBO is allowing anyone with a cable box to watch, even if they don't subscribe.

I recognize that someone has to pay for such an event without burdening the taxpayers (although the taxpayers do pay for the actual swearing in and security), but doesn't this contradict the Obama's campaign pledge of no corporate sponsorship? After all, HBO is part of a larger corporation, Time Warner.

On the other hand, for a star-studded event, I'd rather have an entertainment company sponsor it. Since it will probably be watched by many people (Obama lovers and haters alike), it's a good advertising opportunity for HBO. Also, HBO can make money on anyone who re-broadcasts even a portion of the event. And if it's an entertainment company that finances the event, better HBO than MTV. It would be quite tasteless if the event had any wardrobe malfunctions.