Office of the Governor: First Lady Melanie Blunt Hosts A Luncheon with the First Ladies

FROM THE OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR

June 25, 2008

Contact: Jessica Robinson, 573-751-0290


JEFFERSON CITY - First Lady Melanie Blunt today hosted A Luncheon with the First Ladies, an historic collaboration of Missouris first ladies to raise support to restore and repair the historic Missouri Governors Mansion.

"It is an honor to host the event that for the first time ever has brought Missouris past first ladies together," Mrs. Blunt said. "The fact that all are enthusiastically united to raise money to support the renovation is in itself is a testament to the importance of the Missouri Governors Mansion. This home truly is the peoples house. It honors and showcases Missouris history and heritage and reflects the unique spirit of our state in a way no other monument or historic site can."

Much needed repairs and renovations supported by the Missouri Mansion Preservation Incorporateds (MMPI) capital campaign will ensure that the Mansion and its timeless treasures remain for future generations.

"I am very proud of Melanies leadership in this effort to restore, repair and refurbish the Mansion," Gov. Blunt said. "These repairs will be of great benefit to the next First Family and more importantly future generations who will enjoy this historic home."

A Luncheon with the First Ladies held today raised more than half a million dollars. First Ladies Betty Hearnes, Carolyn Bond, Jean Carnahan, Pat Wilson, and Lori Holden joined Mrs. Blunt and 600 guests for the luncheon. Theresa Teasdale and Janet Ashcroft could not attend.

The funding supports MMPIs $3 million capital campaign to pay for much needed restoration work at the Missouri Governors Mansion including:

 Window treatments
 Rugs
 Carpet
 Furniture repair
 Upholstery
 Wall treatments
 Artwork restoration

The Missouri Governors Mansion was built in 1871 and has been the home of 33 Missouri First Families. It is a Renaissance Revival-style home, designed by St. Louis architect, George Ingham Barnett.

Gov. Matt Blunt and Mrs. Blunt have been strong advocates for the Missouri Governors Mansion as well as historic preservation efforts across the state. Mrs. Blunt worked to secure and Gov. Blunt signed a supplemental appropriations bill authorizing $3 million in state funding to address structural repairs and restoration at the Missouri Governors Mansion. MMPIs fundraising efforts will complement available state funding, addressing interior and decorative Mansion features that are long overdue.