February 23, 2015

Good evening everyone.  This morning we left Somerset NJ and drove to Trenton, the Capitol of New Jersey.  Traffic in the larger cities is generally light and today was no exception.  We, with the suggestion of the co pilot ended up in the visitors parking area and found free parking.  Once inside and after going through one of the more complete security checks, being a little late, were personally escorted up to the beginning area for the guided tour.  It would have taken considerably more time to find it on our own.
The tour guide did a great job and made sure that all of our questions were answered.
The building, built in 1790, it is the second oldest state house in continuous legislative use in the United States.  There are a couple of exceptions.  The part that is the oldest is the part that has the executive offices. (Original legislative chambers)  The building has been expanded several times to house the House and Senate chambers.

The Rotunda shown below was not part of the original building.  It was an add on.  The height of the inside of the dome is 100 feet high.  The dome is covered in gold leaf and the leaf came from an elementary school children effort to raise the money.

The next picture, taken from under the rotunda is looking at the arch where the original front door was located.  Through the arch to the right is where the Governor's reception is located.  We were fortunate to be able to get into the reception area but no pictures were allowed.

This is a view of the House chambers where during session, it is occupied by 80 members.  Tuesday is a big day for the Governor as he is getting ready to present his budget.  One of his tough sells will be how he is to make a promised payment to the employment pension system.  (Court ordered)  Governor Christie Budget.

Four of the State symbols are depicted in the artwork below. The Red Oak, Eastern Goldfinch, Honeybee and Purple Violet.  The pattern in the carpet in the picture above depicts the same symbols.

After the 24th State Capitol visit, we headed off to Dover Air Force Base where we will stay for the next 2 nights while we visit the Delaware State Capitol.
We drove around the base and stopped in to the Passenger Terminal and started asking some questions about Space-A travel.  Before we left the building, an energetic airman had us signed up for eligibility to fly anywhere in the US as well as many other popular overseas destinations.  Next step, show up with no more that 70 pounds in the suitcase.  Cost, priceless.  Now on the to-do (bucket) list.

Came back to the room in time to catch the weather.  5-8 inches predicted for North Carolina.