West Virginia Branch of American Turkish Friendship Association (ATFA), in collaboration with the Mid Atlantic Federation of Turkic American Alliance (MAFTAA) organized a cultural reception in Charleston, WV, on Thursday, March 10. All 100 delegates of house and 34 members of senate were invited to the event that took place in the state capitol. Despite the fact that it was the last and the busiest week of the legislature, the attendance was high. As the members of the organization committee reported, 54 members showed up. Guests enjoyed a variety of Turkish food, live Turkish music, and traditional Ebru art display.
While sipping their Turkish coffees, WV legislators met the members of the Turkish-American community. Several delegates told that they were impressed with the hospitality they were offered, and for most of them it was a confirmation of what they already have heard about Turkish people.
The clerk of the house, Gregory Gray, who has been the most helpful person since the initial steps of the organization, emphasized that this was the first time they were hosting such an event. As a follow up to the event, plans for a trip to Turkey early this summer are underway. Several delegates already confirmed their commitment to the trip.
