During September Interims I was able to tour the TIMET facility in Ravenswood to understand its operations and economic impact. TIMET is a significant player in the titanium industry, contributing to both local employment and the broader economy. The visit highlighted the importance of supporting local industries to boost economic growth in the region. Discussions included potential expansions and investments to further enhance the facility’s capabilities and economic contributions. The business will sit on 2,200 acres. I believe this will be a game changer for the people in the area and will attract more investors and companies to the Mountain State. One of the best comments made by one of the TIMET employees was that the opportunity brought them home to West Virginia.
Last weekend, I had the honor of attending a dinner to celebrate the incredible volunteers of the Frametown Volunteer Fire Department for their unwavering dedication and service to our community. These brave individuals selflessly give their time and energy to ensure our safety, often putting their lives on the line.
Volunteer fire departments like Frametown are the backbone of our communities’ emergency response. They provide critical services, from firefighting to medical emergencies, and their commitment is truly inspiring.
Let us take a moment to thank all our local volunteer fire departments for their hard work and dedication. Your service makes our community a safer and better place to live.
Speaking of keeping our communities safer, I applaud the Superintendent of Braxton County Schools, Dr. Donna Burge Tetrick, for taking a proactive approach to the threats that have targeted schools across the state by holding meetings at Braxton Middle and Braxton High School. Students and staff heard from representatives from Homeland Security, the West Virginia State Police, and the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office. The takeaway, if you see something contact a parent, teacher, or the website to report it instead of sharing the threat which causes a delay in investigation. The message is the same for adults, “If you see something, say something.” All threats will be taken seriously and investigated. Threats may be reported to the link provided on the Braxton County’s Board of Education website along with phone numbers to all the schools’ administrations or in case of an emergency, call 911. We all play a part in keeping our communities safe.
Congratulations to Glenville State University who celebrated the grand opening of their new nursing facility at the College of Health Sciences. This state-of-the-art center is a monumental step forward in providing top-notch education and training for future healthcare professionals.
Glenville State’s commitment to addressing the healthcare needs of rural West Virginia is truly commendable. With advanced clinical rooms, modern classrooms, and cutting-edge technology, this facility will undoubtedly inspire and equip students to excel in their nursing careers.
A special shoutout to the dedicated faculty, staff, and community partners who made this possible. Your hard work and vision are paving the way for a healthier future for all.
Early last week, as I walked into school, the rain began to fall. The fresh scent was invigorating, and I welcomed it wholeheartedly. May this week bring more rain to our drought-stricken areas, allowing water levels to rise once again.
Will and I kicked off the official beginning of fall with a trip to Cedar Creek State Park Foundation’s Fall Fest! What a wonderful day full of people having fun and enjoying food, vendor offerings, and more. We even ran into some classmates that we had not seen for years. Thank you to everyone who helped organize and participate in the day.
In a world that often feels disconnected, small town events remind us of the power of community. They show us that when people come together
with a shared purpose and a caring heart, they can create a place where everyone feels at home. The fall festival season is just getting started. Look for more fall fun in the weeks ahead.
With the onset of fall, the leaves are beginning to turn and give us the show we all wait to see every year. I’m looking forward to the next several weeks as the full bloom of autumn is upon us. I have so many fond fall memories with family and friends with the leaves turning around us.
“There is something incredibly nostalgic and significant about the annual cascade of autumn leaves.”
(Joe L. Wheeler)
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