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 GOVERNOR'S "WHISTLE-STOP" TOUR MARKS THE DAWN OF A NEW DAY IN ILLINOIS
From Governor Rod Blagojevich's "whistle-stop" tour en route to Springfield
and the first inaugural event, a free-of-charge Family Barbeque on Sunday,
January 12th, through the Inaugural Balls on the 13th, the thread throughout
the entire inaugural schedule was one of celebration. Celebrating together
the state's history, culture, and traditions, we turned the page in Illinois;
rising to the dawn of a new day.
Departing Chicago's Union Station on the morning of Saturday, January 11,
the Governor-elect's train stopped in Joliet, Dwight, and Bloomington before arriving
in Springfield in the early evening. Festivities surrounding the Inaugural weekend had
a distinct family-oriented flavor. The main event for the weekend was the family barbeque
held on the Illinois State Fairgrounds, featuring a wide array of entertainment,
including special activities and performances for children.
At noon on January 13, 2003, Rod R. Blagojevich was sworn in as the 40th Governor of
the State of Illinois at the Inauguration Ceremony, which was followed by an Open House
at the Executive Mansion. Rounding out the celebration were twin Inaugural Balls,
held on the state fairgrounds.
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