AP News, January 2nd, 2007
Gov. Dave Freudenthal said at his inauguration Tuesday for a second term that the state needed to look to the future. Freudenthal said investments in transportation, health care, telecommunications and other infrastructure necessary for economic development that appear expensive today would pay dividends in the future.
"Historians will render judgment on our words," Freudenthal said in prepared comments. "But our actions will be judged most critically by Wyoming's citizens 30 and 50 years from now _ for it is they who must live with the decisions we make, as well as the indecision we indulge because of lack of confidence or the fear of an uncertain tomorrow."
Freudenthal warned against being too cautious, saying the state needs deliberate investments in infrastructure and human capital if it is to keep moving forward.
"We must also address our fear of an economic downturn or bust," he said. "A healthy level of unease generates urgency and sustained dedication to building upon our economic strengths while working toward greater diversification of our economy. Unfortunately, this unease combined with a fear of the last bust can also leave us immobile, much like a deer confronted with the glare of a bright light."
Superintendent of Public Instruction Jim McBride also was inaugurated for the second time, although it's for his first full term. He was elected in November after serving a little more than a year as the replacement for Trent Blankenship, who resigned before completing his term.
The ceremony also marked the inaugurations of Secretary of State Max Maxfield (formerly the state auditor), Auditor Rita Meyer and Treasurer Joe Meyer (formerly secretary of state, and no relation to Rita Meyer).
