NEWS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Jan. 11, 2008

CONTACT: Marcia Slaven

304-265-0019

2008 celebrates the 100 th year of Mother’s Day

CHARLESTON , W.Va. – Gov. Joe Manchin today issued a proclamation declaring 2008 as the centennial year of Mother’s Day. Clarence Paugh, board chairman of the International Mother’s Day Shrine (IMDS), accepted the proclamation.

With the persistence of Anna Jarvis, Andrews Methodist Episcopal Church in Grafton, W.Va., arranged the first official Mother’s Day observation on May 10, 1908. This initiated a general commemorative day for all mothers. In 1912, West Virginia became the first state to adopt an official Mother's Day. On May 8, 1914, U. S. Congress passed a joint resolution to establish the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day. Anna Jarvis was credited as the force behind the official establishment of a nationally recognized Mother’s Day. Visitors can travel to Grafton, W.Va., and take a tour of the former Andrews Methodist Episcopal Church, now known as the International Mother’s Day Shrine or visit the Anna Jarvis Birthplace Museum in Webster.

“Anna’s efforts are a prime example of what women can accomplish with determination and dedication,” said First Lady Gayle Manchin, honorary spokesperson and West Virginia’s 2001 Mother of the Year. “As we celebrate the centennial anniversary of Mother’s Day this year, we remember the women in our lives who have nurtured and provided us guidance on a daily basis.”

A logo has been designed and a planning committee has been organized to commemorate the centennial anniversary. Marcia Slaven is the centennial planning committee chairwoman. The planning committee also includes IMDS Board Chairman Clarence Paugh, Vice Chairman Ron Curry, Secretary Linda Shriver, Treasurer Larry Richman, Katharine Antolini, Martha Bennett, Butch Bias, Darlene Ford, Marvin Gelhausen, Chad Proudfoot, Chip Slaven, Sally Thayer, Cynthia Mason and Doug Gainer. Community representatives serving on the planning committee include Grafton Mayor Tom Bartlett, Olive Crow Dadisman of Anna Jarvis Homeplace, Michael Hayes of B&O Heritage Center, Sheila Larew of Business and Professional Women and Kim Mitchell, a friend of the IMDS.

Various events, including a Mother’s Day Service, Founder’s Day Celebration, Mother’s Centennial Ball, and essay and art contests, are scheduled throughout the year. Information on these and other events will be available at a later date.

For more information, please contact Marcia Slaven at 304-265-0019 or visit www.mothersdayshrine.com.

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