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Riley sworn in for second term
By Donna Sparks - Herald Staff Writer
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Gov. Bob Riley, Patsy and their children and families lead the inauguration parade up Dexter Avenue Monday, Jan. 15. More than 90 units participated in this year’s parade, featuring both university and high school bands. -- Herald Photo/Donna Sparks
The threat of rain and overcast skies didn’t dampen the spirits of Gov. Bob Riley and his supporters as he took his second oath of office on the front steps of the capitol in downtown Montgomery Monday, Jan. 15.
Hundreds of people gathered at the steps of the capitol and Dexter Avenue to see history in the making.
The theme of this inauguration was “Believe in Alabama,” and Riley told those present the steps taken to overcome deficits and a sluggish economy during his first four years as governor must continue through his second four years.
Riley stressed the importance of working together, putting aside bipartisan politics and “doing what is right for the people of Alabama.”
The event was also shared with the annual celebrations of Dr. Martin Luther King and Robert E. Lee’s birthdays. Special recognition was paid to King during the ceremony by Montgomery civil rights activist Johnnie Carr, saying King would be pleased with the progress made in the area of social justice.
“But there is still much more to do,” Carr told the crowd. “Dr. King wanted all God’s children to be judged by the content of their character and not the color of their skin.”
Also present during the swearing in ceremony was Arizona Senator John McCain, who attended at the invitation of the governor. McCain denied claims he was present to size Riley up as a possible running mate for the 2008 presidential election, but he did praise his success.
“Governor Riley has the potential to be a national candidate,” McCain said. “He has had a lot of success as governor of Alabama, and the people voting for him overwhelmingly again.”
Thirteen state officials took their oaths of office, including Lt. Gov. Jim Folsom, State Treasurer Kay Ivey, Secretary of State Beth Chapman, Attorney General Troy King and Department of Agriculture Commissioner Ron Sparks.
Following a 19-gun salute and fighter jets flying over, the parade began, featuring more than 90 units.
Leading the parade were Riley and his family, followed by the Lineville High School Marching Band and the Auburn University band.
Other bands marching in the parade included Troy State University, Jacksonville State University, Alabama State University and the University of North Alabama.
High school bands from several counties participated, including Wetumpka High School’s Pride of the Tribe, and Elmore County High School’s Maroon Machine.
The parade ended with Riley’s alma mater, the University of Alabama Million Dollar Band playing “Yea Alabama.”
As if on cue, raindrops started falling just after the band passed the reviewing stand, allowing everyone to enjoy the parade.
The day’s events ended with the governor’s ball in Birmingham.
