Inauguration events set for two-time Gov. Brad Henry

BYLINE: By RON JENKINS, Associated Press Writer

DATELINE: OKLAHOMA CITY

A pair of inaugural balls and an outing for children are among the events scheduled as a prelude to Monday's inauguration of Democrat Brad Henry of Shawnee to a second term as governor.

The events will be highlighted by Henry's inaugural address about noon.

"The inaugural activities are designed to offer something for everyone," said Henry. "With Oklahoma beginning its centennial year, we want the events to convey the pride and enthusiasm we feel for our state and set the tone for a great centennial celebration."

Henry, who easily defeated former Republican U.S. Rep. Ernest Istook in November, has expressed enthusiasm about being the state's chief executive during Oklahoma's 100th birthday celebration.

The inaugural festivities begin Saturday in Tulsa when Henry and first lady Kim Henry play host at the first of two inaugural balls. The event at the Mayo Hotel will feature dinner and dancing.

Oklahoma families are invited to take part in Family Day at the Jasmine Moran Children's Museum in Seminole. The event is free and open to the public from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

The public also is invited to take part in an interfaith inaugural prayer service Sunday at 5 p.m. at St. Luke's United Methodist Church in Oklahoma City.

The service will include performances from Pulitzer Prize winning author N. Scott Momaday, internationally acclaimed soprano Leona Mitchell and the Ambassadors' Concert Choir.

Henry, only the third Oklahoma governor to be re-elected, will be formally sworn in at 11 a.m. Monday on the south steps of the state Capitol.

Other elected officials also will be sworn in, including Democratic Lt. Gov. Jari Askins, who replaces three-term Lt. Gov. Mary Fallin, who was elected to Congress from the 5th District.

Miss Langston 2006, Rachel Goff, will be master of ceremonies at the inauguration on Monday that will include a flag presentation by the Kiowa Warrior Black Leggings Society, a flyover by the Oklahoma Air National Guard and performances by Mitchell, Momaday and the Ambassador Choir.

Inaugural activities official conclude Monday night with the second inaugural ball at 6:30 p.m. at the Cox Convention Center.