Oaths to take, party to celebrate

You've celebrated the new year, now why not your new representatives in St. Paul?

Minnesotans itching for a little political pomp and circumstance won't have to look far this week when DFL Gov.-elect Mark Dayton and the Republican-led Legislature officially take office.

Monday

The main events start at noon Monday, when Dayton will take the oath of office in historic Landmark Center in downtown St. Paul. Doors open at 10:30 a.m. and limited seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.

Landmark Center has been the site of two swearing-in ceremonies in the past 20 years, according to the Minnesota Historical Society, while others largely took place in the Capitol Rotunda. Some governors have added their own flair, such as when Gov. Jesse Ventura preceded his ceremony in 1999 by releasing a bald eagle in Brooklyn Park.

Following the ceremony on Monday, the public can mix and mingle with Dayton and Lt. Gov. Yvonne Prettner Solon at an open house in the State Capitol. The Minnesota Historical Society will supply exhibits and children's activities for that event, which starts at 2 p.m.

Tuesday

Be warned: Seating in the House and Senate galleries will be very tight and House GOP spokesman Kevin Watterson notes the fairly procedural agenda will appeal mostly to "political geeks."

The event carries added weight this year because it is the first time Republicans have controlled both houses of the Legislature since the early 1970s.

Saturday

The week won't just be oaths and handshakes, however. The real party takes place on Saturday night at the Minneapolis Convention Center, where the public is invited to dance the night away (until midnight) at the "People's Inaugural Ball."

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and tickets can be purchased for $30 at daytoninauguration.com or at the door -- students and low-income residents can request a $15 reduced price on the honor system. All forms of payment will be accepted.