Earlier this week, I met with Gilmer County’s Association of Retired School Employees at their July Picnic. Despite being retired, they actively contribute to their community, working to provide area scholarships for students. During our gathering, members asked questions and shared their legislative goals. I thoroughly enjoyed the delicious meal and cherished the time spent conversing with the group.
On Saturday, I had the honor of attending the bridge dedication for US Army Sergeant Thomas Lawson at Strange Creek. Thomas Lawson enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1967 and served in Vietnam, where he displayed remarkable bravery and duty, earning a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star. West Virginia always held a special place in his heart. Following his passing, he was laid to rest in a cemetery near Strange Creek.
As we travel across the state, we encounter numerous bridges bearing the names of men and women who served our country with distinction, honor, and sacrifice. Each of these names represents someone special—a story worth remembering. A heartfelt thank you to American Auxiliary Post 33 for their role in posting colors and playing Taps during the unveiling of the new sign.
Gilmer County led the state in the percentage of new business growth with a total of seven new business registrations, a 2.05% increase in the month of June. Gilmer added seven new businesses and Braxton County added six. Statewide, West Virginia registered 13,890 new businesses in the previous 12-month period, from July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024.
I recently listened to an interview with Erin Cunningham, the Executive Director of Recycleballs, a nonprofit organization dedicated to recycling tennis balls. Recycleballs recently relocated their headquarters from Vermont to Belington in Barbour County. When asked why they chose West Virginia, Erin highlighted the strategic central location, which is advantageous for shipping their products. She also praised the local community, noting that the area is “filled with problem solvers, people who work hard, and people who take initiative.” These qualities are also abundant here in central West Virginia.
As I look around, I see immense potential. More people are bound to discover the unique offerings of our region. The economic authorities in both counties are diligently working to enhance the quality of life and promote business growth. State-level economic development efforts actively recruit businesses, and the legislature is making it easier for companies to say ‘yes’ and for entrepreneurs to elevate their ideas to the next level.
Congratulations to Gilmer County’s FFA Land Judging Team for winning the land judging and homesite competition, with all individuals placing in the top ten for homesite. Special kudos to Breanna White for placing first individually in both land and homesite categories. And let us not forget Dalton Frye, who earned his state FFA Degree. Well done, everyone! I am confident they will represent West Virginia admirably as they compete at Nationals in Oklahoma next spring.
Mark your calendars: the 2024 Bulltown Historical Association Heritage Days will take place from July 19th through July 21st.
On a personal note, my dad, Gary Cowger, celebrates his birthday this week. He has the heart of a cowboy, wisdom to share, and has selflessly loved and supported his family. Will, Hannah, and I hope he has a great day and wonderful year. We sure love him a bunch!
Lastly, on Saturday our nation was shocked by the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump. I am thankful he walked away, and my prayers go out to those who were injured, first responders, bystanders and the family of Corey Comperatore, a former fire chief who died shielding his family during the shooting. Violence like this, no matter what party or ideology, should not be tolerated or celebrated. My prayer is that we will see one another as Americans and not enemies. We can disagree; we can debate, but let us do so without violence, but with civility.
“We have a choice about how we behave, and that means we have the choice to opt for civility and grace.” (Dwight Currie)
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 lori.dittman@wv house.gov or 304-701-8600.
Devoted to Braxton County, West Virginia