Obamaniacs can share rides to D.C.

TripVerde Inc. is recruiting Obamaniacs to sign on for a massive ride-sharing program, one designed to get people to this month’s presidential inauguration in an economical, environmental and entertaining manner.The program is being set up in 40 U.S. cities, including Kansas City, Mo.Anyone looking to make the trek — that’s 1,074 miles from Kansas City to 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. — can register at www.obamainaugurationrideshare.com. Just enter where you’re starting from, when you want to leave and whether you want to drive or ride.Texas-based TripVerde, a company that bills itself as “to ridesharing as what Match.com is to dating,” takes the information and teams up riders with drivers.From Kansas City, each rider would pay anywhere from $96 to $287 for a round trip, depending on how many other people are in the car. The driver would receive compensation ranging from $227 to $324 — again, depending on how many passengers are involved.”TripVerde’s ride-sharing program is in line with the Obama administration’s top priorities, which address climate change and the economy,” said Scott Willis, TripVerde’s chief executive officer. “Personal transportation is a key contributor to global warming. Ride sharing saves money, gas and emissions.”Barack Obama is scheduled to be sworn in Jan. 20 as the country’s 44th president.