While the official first day of summer is a few weeks away, the weather has decided to bring summer a little early. As I mentioned in last week’s column, Will and I are enjoying seeing the state and natural wonders by following the West Virginia Waterfall Trail. I am so pleased that Falls Mill was added to the list this year.
According to a press release from Governor Jim Justice, during 2022 there were more than 35,000 participant check-ins from people across 49 states and 15 countries. The West Virginia Waterfall Trail is the first one of its kind in the nation and continues to build the state’s reputation as a true outdoor recreation destination. According to a West Virginia Travel Impacts report, tourism’s economic impact is at an all-time high with 4.9 billion in traveler spending and 1.3 billon in earnings.
Tourism supports 44,000 jobs and generates 75 million in tax revenue. In 2022 all nine tourist regions experienced growth and visitors spent approximately 13.6 million per day. District 63 contains two wonderful lakes, two rivers that offer fishing and recreation opportunities, along with several trails, golf courses, campgrounds, interesting museums, musical events, festivals, and Cedar Creek State Park, just to name a few. We are fortunate to be located in central West Virginia where people can stay and use our location to not only experience what we have to offer, but also easily drive to other locations all over the state.
The words are sung all over the world, but here at home, we live and breathe them.
“Country roads, take me home
To the place I belong
West Virginia, mountain mama
Take me home, country roads.”
(John Denver)
West Virginia’s Free Fishing Weekend Is June 10-11 and is part of a nationwide effort to make fishing more accessible to the public. June will be a busy month with The Folk Festival in Glenville, Gassaway Days, and The West Virginia Big Foot Festival in Sutton. Several opportunities to enjoy making memories with family and friends while supporting local communities.
I would like to congratulate Donna Burge Tetrick for her appointment as Braxton County’s new school superintendent. As someone who was educated in the Braxton County school system, she has valuable insight and will bring Braxton County values to the position.
Congratulations to Michael Lemon and Team Mountaineers on their win at
the University Rover Challenge in Utah. They placed first out of 31 teams.
I was saddened to learn that Sergeant Cory Maynard of the West Virginia
State Police was fatally wounded in the line of duty. I cannot express my gratitude enough to the people that put their lives on the line every day to serve and protect. His family, friends, and the whole State Police family are in my prayers.
I look forward to hearing from people in the district and hope to see you out and about enjoying all the great things our area has to offer. I can be contacted at [email protected] or 304-701-8600.
Devoted to Braxton County, West Virginia