Governor Gregoire, First Gentleman Invite Children to Trick-or-Treat at the Mansion

For Immediate Release: October 17, 2006

OLYMPIA � Governor Chris Gregoire and First Mike today announced that the Executive Mansion on Halloween will be turned into Zuckerman�s Farm from the beloved book �Charlotte�s Web,� by E.B. White.

Governor Gregoire will play the part of the world�s most famous spider, Charlotte A. Cavatica. First Mike will dress as Wilbur the Pig, the runt of the litter who soon becomes �Some Pig.� The family puppy, Trooper, will be Templeton the Rat.

�The story of Charlotte�s Web has been a longtime favorite in our family and Mike and I are excited to be able to share it with Washington children,� said Governor Gregoire. �The messages of loyalty, trust and sacrifice still ring true today.�

�Charlotte�s Web� is a story of friendship, hardship and the passing on into time. Author E.B. White reminds readers to open their eyes to the wonders and miracles often found in the most simple things.

The Executive Mansion will be open to trick-or-treaters on Tuesday, October 31, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Children and their families are invited to enter Zuckerman�s barnyard, otherwise known as the main front porch.

Each child will receive a chocolate bar. Hidden away in five of the bars will be a special �barnyard ticket.� The winners of the barnyard tickets will be able to bring four guests with them to the Mansion on December 1 for a �sneak preview� of the Mansion's holiday decorations, including a complete behind-the-scenes tour of the Mansion. Governor Gregoire, First Mike and Trooper will be available to meet the children and their guests. The barnyard ticket must be presented for entry.

In addition to the chocolate bar, the first 600 visitors will receive a paperback copy of the book "Charlotte�s Web." The books are being provided at a discount by Scholastic Books.

According to the State Capitol Tour Office, the Executive Mansion will be fully decorated for the holidays and open to the public on December 6, 13 and 20. Advance reservations are required and may be made by calling the tour office at 360-902-8880.

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