Thirteen paving projects and five bridge projects are among twenty-six construction projects included in a bid letting conducted by the West Virginia Division of Highways (WVDOH) on Tuesday, December 17th. I was pleased to see that the following jobs were included in the projects: Gassaway Road paving (Braxton County), US 19 paving, Flatwoods to Heaters Road (Braxton County), and WV 5 paving, Sand Fork to Burnsville Road (Gilmer County). “When you invest in infrastructure wisely, using a data-driven approach and addressing the right issues at the right time in a holistic manner, the entire system improves, benefiting everyone,” said Transportation Secretary Jimmy Wriston, P.E. Since 2019, WVDOH has focused on highway maintenance and construction, supported by Gov. Jim Justice’s $2.8 billion Roads to Prosperity program and additional budget appropriations from the West Virginia Legislature. In 2024 alone, the WVDOH paved over 1,170 miles of road.
As we wrap up the last week of school before Christmas break, it is a time of celebration and new beginnings. Colleges and universities are holding their winter graduation ceremonies, marking the end of an important chapter for many students. Congratulations to all the local graduates who have worked hard to reach this milestone. Your dedication and perseverance have paid off, and now you are on to bigger and better things. Enjoy the holiday season and the exciting journey ahead!
December not only ushers in the Christmas season, but it also marks a special milestone for me—26 years ago, I was blessed to become the mother of an amazing daughter. We celebrated Hannah’s birthday with family and friends, making it a truly memorable occasion.
I had a wonderful time at the Braxton Middle School Band Concert, enjoying the talented performances and festive atmosphere. As the year winds down, I am looking forward to taking some time over the next couple of weeks to rest, rejuvenate, and spend quality time with family. It is the perfect opportunity to slow down and appreciate the moments that matter most before we dive into the excitement of 2025.
The 2025 West Virginia Legislature will commence on January 8th with a ceremonial and organizational day. During this time, officers will be elected, the 2024 election results will be certified, and members will take their oath of office. Legislative activities will then pause until February 12th, marking the start of the 60-day regular session.
Each year, I eagerly anticipate the cherished traditions of the Christmas season. One of the highlights is the Christmas Eve service, where we come together to celebrate the true reason for the season—the birth of our Savior, Jesus. It is a time filled with peace, joy, and hope, reflecting the blessings He freely gives. May this season bring you the same peace, joy, and hope as we celebrate His birth and the love that surrounds us.
And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were fillead with great fear. And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a Baby wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger.” And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying,
“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom He is pleased!”
(Luke 2:8-14)
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 call 304-701-8600.
Devoted to Braxton County, West Virginia