Latest local news, weather and high school sports for Tri-State area

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - Gov. Rod Blagojevich took the oath of office today to begin his second term and promises to offer "bold solutions that make a difference for people."

But the Democrat's inaugural address contained no new proposals or even details about old ones. Instead, he focused on the accomplishments of his first four years.

Blagojevich touted the fact that his administration has twice raised the minimum wage, expanded health care programs and halted corporate tax "loopholes."

He didn't mention the state's continuing financial problems or  the fact that his annual spending plans have depended on cutting payments to state pension systems and delaying payment of medical  bills.

The 50-year-old Chicagoan is the first Democrat elected to a second term as Illinois governor since Otto Kerner in 1964.

(Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)