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Despite economy, W.Va. gov to host holiday parties

November 23, 2009 @ 08:58 AM

CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) — Gov. Joe Manchin and first lady Gayle Manchin aren’t cutting back on the number of parties they’ll host during the holiday season, despite the economy and state budget concerns.

But Manchin spokesman Matt Turner says the governor’s staff is looking for ways to trim the annual parties’ costs.

Turner says the Manchins will host four parties at the Governor’s Mansion in December, the same number as in previous years.

The tab in previous years has totaled $60,000, which is paid from the Governor’s Mansion’s budget.

Each year, about 2,000 people from across West Virginia attend the parties. The guest list includes elected officials, constituents and journalists.