Atlanta weather | Deal inauguration moving indoors, gala called off

By Angel K. Brooks

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Snow and cold have altered plans for Nathan Deal’s inauguration Monday as Georgia’s 82nd governor.

Enlarge photo

David Goldman, AP Snow falls against the backdrop of the Georgia State Capitol the night before Gov.-elect Nathan Deal is to be sworn into office.

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Because of the snowstorm rolling through the state, all nonessential inaugural activities have been canceled, it was announced Sunday.

The swearing in will take place in the House chambers at the State Capitol at 2 p.m. Monday.

The day was to start with a 9 a.m. prayer service at Mount Paran Church in Atlanta, but that has been canceled. All tickets for Monday night's black-tie inaugural gala at Phillips Arena will be refunded.

Deal encourages Georgians to stay off the roads and watch the ceremony live on Georgia Public Broadcasting.

“I am honored that so many Georgians want to take part in this historic event, but please, everybody take safety as your first priority,” Deal said Friday.

No seating will be available for the general public or ticket holders inside the Capitol.  If you have tickets for the swearing-in ceremony and still wish to attend, indoor seating will be provided at the Georgia Freight Depot to view the ceremony through live feed, the press release said.

--Staff writer April Hunt contributed to this report.