March 19, 1999

Inaugural Bash for Willamette U. President Damages State Capitol

An inaugural party for the new president of Willamette University last month resulted in the worst damage ever inflicted by a group renting the Oregon State Capitol building, according to state officials.

The party, held to honor M. Lee Pelton, drew about 2,000 people, twice the number that had been expected.

A Capitol employee said revelers broke glasses and spilled beer and alcohol on the marble floors and walls of the