CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Governor Patrick Morrisey is encouraging churches, schools, veterans organizations, civic groups, local governments and communities across West Virginia to participate in a statewide bell-ringing ceremony at noon on Saturday, July 4, as part of the state’s celebration of America’s 250th anniversary.
The statewide event invites participating locations to ring bells 13 times at noon, representing the original 13 colonies that formed the United States. State officials say the ceremony is intended to serve as a community-wide tribute to liberty, freedom and the nation’s founding principles.
“America’s 250th anniversary is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to celebrate the freedoms we’ve inherited and the sacrifices that made them possible,” said Governor Morrisey. “I encourage every community across West Virginia to join together at noon on Independence Day, ring their bells in unison, and take part in this powerful tribute to the ideals that have united our nation for 250 years.”
Organizations planning to participate are encouraged to complete an online registration form so the state can create a statewide listing of bell-ringing ceremonies taking place across West Virginia.
Participants are also encouraged to maintain a celebratory atmosphere, follow the direction of organizers, staff or clergy at participating locations, operate bells or bell-ringing equipment only if authorized, and invite neighbors, family members and visitors to take part in the event.
“From our smallest towns to our largest cities, this is an opportunity for every West Virginian to be part of history,” Governor Morrisey said. “When bells ring across our state at the same moment, they’ll serve as a reminder that generations before us secured the blessings of liberty, and it’s now our responsibility to preserve them for generations to come.”
Additional information about West Virginia’s America250 celebration, including the bell-ringing registration form and other commemorative events, is available at wv250.com and through the West Virginia 250 Facebook and Instagram pages.
