The Real Deal Band — aka the Shagtones Band — performs in the lobby before the start of Gov. Nathan Deal’s inaugural gala at the Cobb Galleria on Monday evening. The inaugural gala was supposed to take place Jan. 10, the day Deal was sworn in as governor, but was scrapped for safety reasons because of the ice storm that paralyzed metro Atlanta and parts of Georgia for several days. Monday’s event, which included a private reception but also included a portion that was open to the public — was paid for by private donations. The event marked the Republican leader’s victory over Democratic opponent former Gov. Roy Barnes in November. After the 2010 election, the GOP now controls every statewide elected office in the Peach State. Brant Sanderlin bsanderlin@ajc.com
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