Gov. Baldacci announces plans for inauguration

AUGUSTA – Gov. John Baldacci’s second inauguration is scheduled for Jan. 3 at the Augusta Civic Center and an inaugural gala will be held the following evening at the same location, the gubernatorial inaugural committee announced.

The Democratic governor, who was re-elected Nov. 7 to a second four-year term, asked House and Senate leaders from both parties to serve as honorary co-chairs of his official swearing-in ceremony.

The inaugural gala, scheduled for 7 p.m. Jan. 4, will be a black-tie optional event and feature food, drink and music. Details are still being completed, the inaugural committee said.

Baldacci said in a prepared statement that the inaugural ceremony is a time to pay tribute to leaders past and present while ushering in the beginning of a new era.

“By working together we will be able to truly solve the challenges that Maine faces and seize the opportunities that Maine will realize in the next four years,” said Baldacci. “I am hopeful that this early partnership will be the start of a long and fruitful collaboration with the 123rd Legislature working to better Maine’s future.”

While a budget for the two events has not yet been finished, organizers plan to spend $250,000 to $300,000, Jan Messerschmidt, spokesman for the Maine Gubernatorial Inaugural Committee, said Tuesday.

Because the state does not provide any funds for the events, they must be privately raised. Some of the money will be raised through tickets sales to the gala, which will cost $15 each. The rest of the funds will be raised by the nonprofit Maine Gubernatorial Inaugural Committee.

The committee will reach out to individuals, small and large businesses to cover the expenses for both events, Messerschmidt said.