Columbia, S. C. - Governor Jim Hodges on Wednesday announced that Christmas tours of the Governor's Mansion will not be canceled.

"Despite this year's terrible tragedies, we must begin living as usual and celebrating our traditions as usual this Christmas," Hodges said. "The holiday tours at the Governor's Mansion are an important tradition in South Carolina. The tradition will continue this year."

The First Family will be giving holiday tours of the Governor's Mansion on December 6, 2001, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

The Governor and his family will kick off the holiday season by leading the state's annual Carolighting ceremony this Sunday evening at 6 p.m at the State House.