Inaugural Committee releases information on ceremonies, contingencies for cold day in…

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

Published: 06-Jan-2011

Old-timers used to joke about the unique conditions that would be required for Republicans to control the government of Oklahoma, including “a cold day in [fill in the blank].” Republicans have already assumed control of the Legislature, and as of Monday at noon they will be in charge of every statewide elective position.

Today (Thursday, January 6), CapitolBeatOK received the following release from The Inaugural Committee of Governor-elect Mary Fallin.

This information from the inaugural committee is for citizens planning to attend the 2011 inaugural ceremonies:

The swearing-in ceremony for the state’s highest ranking elected officials will be held on the south steps of the state Capitol on Monday, January 10. The Inaugural Committee requests that all guests arrive at the Capitol before 11 a.m. Governor-elect Fallin will be sworn in as the 27th governor of Oklahoma at exactly noon. As a result, all guests with reserved seats need to be seated by 11:30 a.m. The ceremonies are outside on the steps of the Capitol and will last approximately one hour. Those without reserved seats may still attend and will be directed to the standing-room only area.

The weather forecast that day is calling for temperatures in the 20s so those attending are advised to dress warmly. Following the completion of the inaugural ceremonies there will be a complimentary reception in the Capitol rotunda, which is open to all who attend the inaugural ceremonies. Tickets are not required for either event, only for the reserved seating areas. All tickets for reserved seating have been distributed and were given out on a first-come, first-served basis.

Inclement Weather Plans, if there’s a cold day in …

Unfortunately, there is a strong chance of inclement weather, in which case the entire ceremony will be moved inside the Capitol. In the event of inclement weather on the day of the ceremony, please check the inaugural Web site, www.maryfallininaugural.org, for more information and for more details on the weather contingency plans. The event will be broadcast live by OETA regardless of venue to ensure all Oklahomans may watch this historic event.

If travel conditions are hazardous, the committee requests you do not attempt to drive to the Capitol. Parking is limited and will most likely require a walk of several blocks. Those who may have difficulty walking can be dropped off at the southeast entrance to the Capitol at the corner of Lincoln Boulevard and NE 21st Street.

Note: Patrick B. McGuigan contributed to this report.