March 28, 2024
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Baldacci’s inaugural events planned

AUGUSTA – There will be pomp and circumstance and some boogie-woogie to mark the inauguration of Gov.-elect John Baldacci as the first Democrat to occupy the Blaine House in 16 years.

The formal inauguration will be held on Jan. 8, followed the next day by an invitation-only Inaugural Gala in which people can dance the night away to music including a rock band called The Boneheads.

An open house will be held at the Blaine House, the governor’s official residence, on Jan. 11.

There is a waiting list for tickets to get into the swearing-in ceremony at the Augusta Civic Center. The arena will hold about 6,100 people but more than that number has been invited, said Gwethalyn Phillips, the inaugural coordinator.

The full Legislature, judiciary, former governors and other dignitaries will be present for the ceremony, which is scheduled to begin about 6:30 p.m.

About 80 fourth-graders from Augusta schools also have been invited, and a Penobscot Indian Nation smudging ceremony, an Indian purification and blessing, will be performed.

Senate President Beverly Daggett, D-Augusta, will administer the oath of office to Baldacci.

“We’re excited so many people want to come, but we want to make sure everyone can get a seat,” said Phillips, former chairwoman of the Maine Democratic Party.

The next night, 4,000 to 5,000 people are expected to attend the black-tie optional Inaugural Gala from 8 to 11 p.m. at the civic center.

Tickets are $15 each. Three bands will play at the party, which will end with The Boneheads, a group that plays a mix of rock, blues and roots rock.


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