Because of the weak economy the amount of money spent on celebrating was cut down to be considerably less than the $250,000 that Matt Blunt spent on his inauguration.

The festivities did however go all day Monday and included a meet and greet at the Governor's mansion, free shuttle to a live band, catered dinner, and potluck dessert. Later in the evening a swing band performed during an old-fashioned ball.

"It was a lovely occasion, and I hope this gets us off to a good bi-partisan start," said Democratic Representative Chris Kelly.

As the state shines the spot light on Missouri's newly elected officials one could wonder if in these tough economic times there's room in government for extravagance.

"It is important that government events have some sort of solemnity and pomp and circumstance," said Kelly.

The events were paid for by the Nixon campaign.  Nixon's office says this year the traditional celebrations' costs came in under budget.

Reported by: Joshua Skurnik