Governor to scale down inauguration

Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr.'s second inauguration has been scaled back to reflect the state's tough economic times — but that doesn't mean there won't be big-name entertainment at next Monday's ceremony.

David Archuleta, the Murray High School student who became an "American Idol" finalist, will sing the national anthem, the governor's office announced. Archuleta performed the anthem at Huntsman's first swearing-in four years ago.

In 2005, the inauguration was held at Abravanel Hall and also featured the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. But with the state facing a $1 billion shortfall, Huntsman has opted to hold the 2009 ceremony on the south steps of the state Capitol.

The ceremony, set to begin at 11:45 a.m., will be open to the public, but the governor's office warned that seating will be limited and encouraged the public to dress in warm clothing.

Besides Archuleta, other special guests will be Rich Middle School seventh-graders and Rose Park Elementary fourth-graders. The master of ceremonies will be Utah National Guard Maj. Gen. Brian Tarbet.

Utah Supreme Court Chief Justice Christine Durham will swear in Huntsman, Lt. Gov. Gary Herbert, Attorney General Mark Shurtleff, Auditor Auston Johnson and Treasurer-elect Richard Ellis.

— Lisa Riley Roche