TODAYS SESSION BEGAN WEEKS AGO

Preparation begins for the Governors State of the State Address, as House Doorkeepers assemble to add extra seating to the House Delegates Chamber for the Governor’s Address. Seating is planned weeks in advance of the Address with organizations and individuals contacting representatives in their home regions for available tickets for both the Chamber floor and in the Chamber gallery. Doorkeepers must also address the challenges that occur as public television crews work to establish camera positions and add additional lighting to the galleries and the House Chamber. John Roberts, Head Doorkeeper for the House, "understands that preplanning is key to a smooth State of the State Address" and notes that "representatives are allowed only two tickets for the floor and four tickets for the gallery and can cause a little stress for Delegates who receive numerous requests for tickets."

Although much preparation is needed for tonight, the 2006 legislative session actually began today shortly after 12:00 noon as dictated by the West Virginia State Constitution. In addition to the time, the State Constitution also mandates that session begin on the second Tuesday of January each year and each respective House must notify our Excellency the Governor that we are in session and ready to begin the States business.