Homemade desserts banned at Mo. inaugural potluck

Wednesday, January 7, 2009
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) -- Hold the homemade desserts. Health concerns have led Gov.-elect Jay Nixon to alter his plans for a potluck inaugural dinner.

Nixon's campaign said Wednesday that guests should bring only store-bought cookies, pies and other desserts to his inaugural meal next Monday.

Nixon spokesman Jack Cardetti says local health officials raised concerns that homemade desserts carry a greater risk of food-borne sicknesses.

The incoming governor frequently quipped during campaign events that he would hold the first-ever inaugural potluck if elected governor.

Nixon's campaign committee still plans to provide the main course, including hamburgers, potato salad, cole slaw and chips.

Besides desserts, Nixon also is encouraging guests to bring canned food items to donate to food pantries.