Not-so-grand old party

Organizers of Gov.-elect Tom Corbett’s Jan. 18 inauguration are limiting the number of events in recognition of the hard economic times and the state’s serious financial challenges. Citing an Associated Press report, the Inquirer says there will be a performing arts program, a Roman Catholic Mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral and an inaugural ball at the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex.

This comes in somewhat stark contrast to outgoing Gov. Ed Rendell’s inauguration festivities during his first term as governor, which featured rock concerts and a parade. Rendell scaled it down some for his second inauguration, scrapping the parade.

Corbett’s plans, however, can’t compare to the bare-bones aspect of Mark Schweiker’s inaugural events. Taking over the remainder of Tom Ridge’s term when Ridge was tapped to head the Department of Homeland Security following the Sept. 11 attacks, Schweiker had no parade or inaugural ball. He did, however, sanction music at ceremony that was provided by the marching band of his alma mater — Bloomsburg University.