Easley to Lead NC for Another Term
by Mary McGuirt

Gov. Mike Easley started his second term as governor of North Carolina with a bang. Hundreds of people came to watch as Easley was sworn into office Saturday morning.
The event took place outside the state archives building in downtown Raleigh and featured a guest performance by jazz musician Branford Marsalis. North Carolina native Andy Griffith also made an appearance.

Easley beat out Republican candidate Patrick Ballantine in November. He said that during his next term as governor he'll focus on improving the state's education system and North Carolina's recovering economy.

“In North Carolina we must educate our people to navigate this sea of change and set a new and better course for economic prosperity and security,” said Easley.

The event was followed by music and a parade through downtown Raleigh.