Upon learning the news that Sen. Barack Obama was now the official presidential nominee of the Democratic Party, the entire world was treated to an unprecedented yet magnanimous celebration of epic proportions.

Less than a couple of years ago no one thought that an African American with a father from Kenya, and an American white mother would ever be considered as the best candidate for the highest office in these United States.

Well, that moment of truth as come and everyone on this planet, regardless of race, gender or age should be proud of this euphoric moment.

Obama' glorious celebration last night in St. Paul, MN, was somewhat tarnished by Sen. Hillary Clinton' refusal to announce her concession, her refusal to graciously acknowledge that her opponent was the winner in this hard-fought campaign is an opportunity she'll never have again.

Unfortunately she missed this priceless opportunity to show her supporters and sympathizers that she was not a poor loser, that she could accept defeat, and for the good of a united party, move on to help Obama win in November.

But I'm sure she'll quickly agree that the time of healing and reconciliation is now, the time for party unity is upon us and she needs to come that realization soon.

Unlike Mr. David Karlsruher's Opinion, NPT 6/4/08, I don't believe focusing on the red States versus the blue States is critical, instead, we should remember Obama's speeches from the beginning of his primary campaign, that he believes in uniting not dividing the States, he wants to see not blue versus red States but instead, his dream is to bring back this country into the United States of America, as it should be.

I agree with State Rep. Norma Chavez, that a prolonged and protracted back-biting battle could spell defeat for the Party in November.