Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin and the First Family are inviting all West Virginians to join them for the Joyful Night celebration on Thursday evening, starting at 5:45 p.m. at the North Plaza of the State Capitol Complex.
As part of the festivities, the Tomblins are encouraging attendees to bring a new unwrapped toy for the U.S. Marines' Toys for Tots campaign.
"The evening's celebrations should be carried throughout the month as we gather with friends, family and neighbors to rejoice in the spirit of the season," Gov. Tomblin said in a press release. "By giving of oneself, whether through time spent with loved ones or by donating to charitable organizations like the Marines' Toys for Tots, we receive so much more in return by sharing."
The press release said the toy drive also provides the opportunity for individuals and families to participate in the First Lady's Serve West Virginia Military initiative, which encourages West Virginians to support our military members and their families.
The events start with music at the North Plaza by a high school band and a children’s chorus. The Tomblins will then light a tree donated by Eric and Stacy Holstein of Charleston.
The celebration will then move to the South Plaza for a musical concert by another high school band and the First Family will light a tree donated by Robert Kellison of Barton.
Musical talents from across the state will be featured throughout the Capitol Complex and Gov. Tomblin and First Lady Joanne Jaeger Tomblin will read a favorite holiday story to children in the Governor's Reception Room as part of the evening's events.
There will be musical performances in the first floor Rotunda of the Capitol, the Governor’s Reception Room, the Governor’s Mansion and the Culture Center just across from the Capitol.
All activities are free and everyone is invited to attend.
Festivities are scheduled to begin at the North Plaza of the Capitol, proceed through the Capitol Complex and conclude at the Culture Center.
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For more information about the Joyful Night activities, go to: http://www.wvculture.org/news.aspx?Agency=Division&Id=1870.
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To reach Staff Writer Michael Browning with news tips, questions or comments, please call him at 304-752-6950, extension 309, or e-mail him at mbrowning@loganbanner.com.
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