West Virginia Week in Review- August 10, 2024

8/10/2024

West Virginia Week in Review
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Gov. Justice celebrates state firemen’s association, signs House Bill 5128 allocating $12M to volunteer fire departments and first responders
Surrounded by several members of the West Virginia State Firemen’s Association, Gov. Jim Justice ceremonially signed House Bill 5128 providing $12 million to volunteer fire departments, emergency services, and other first responders around the state.

“I say it all the time that our first responders are so brave because they run to the fire, and you all are the courageous men and women who literally do just that,” Gov. Justice said to members of the WVSFA. “Our volunteer firefighters are the lifeblood of our communities, the people we turn to when emergencies strike. Many times, you are away from your families just to help others in a time of need. I cannot think of anything more wholesome. I cannot thank you enough for your work. This money is a drop in the bucket, but you’re absolutely worth every penny. Thank you all for everything you do for West Virginia.”
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Governor and First Lady Justice issue statement on death of coal miner in Taylor County
Gov. Justice and First Lady Cathy Justice issued the following statement after learning about the death of a coal miner in Taylor County. 

Joe Crandall, 57, of Fairmont passed away yesterday from injuries sustained at the Arch Coal, Leer Mining Complex near Grafton. This marks the third mining fatality in West Virginia this year. He is survived by his loving wife Davina, along with many great friends and relatives.

“Any time we lose a miner, it’s a tragedy beyond belief,” Gov. Justice said. “Mr. Crandall dedicated more than a decade to powering our homes and state through his selfless work. This tragedy is a reminder that we should be eternally grateful for our coal miners. Mr. Crandall will always be remembered as a true West Virginia hero. Cathy and I will keep this man and his loved ones in our prayers. We ask you to join us.” 
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Gov. Justice launches Emergency Drought Relief Reimbursement Grant Program
Gov. Justice announced the Emergency Drought Relief Reimbursement Grant Program, providing financial assistance to agencies helping secure and distribute irrigation and livestock water supplies in counties experiencing severe or extreme drought conditions in accordance with the U.S. Drought Monitor

The program reimburses eligible expenses incurred by local public agencies, fire departments, and conservation districts, for water transportation to farms in affected areas.
Click here for policies and procedures
Click here to see the application
"We know every ounce of water is important right now, and we’re very thankful to those lending a helping hand,” Gov. Justice said. “This program makes sure that our farmers will continue to have access to all the necessary water supplies. We know this is a really hard time for our state that’s experiencing a terrible drought, and now, we need to pull the rope together to get through it. West Virginians are known for stepping up, and that’s exactly what we’re seeing during this hard time.”
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First Lady Cathy Justice welcomes newest Friends With Paws therapy dog to Doddridge County High School
First Lady Cathy Justice visited Doddridge County Park for a back to school event to celebrate the arrival of the state’s newest therapy dog through the Friends With Paws program.

The dog introduced at today’s event is named Chloe, and she is a Golden Retriever.

“What an exciting day for Doddridge County to welcome its newest family member,”  First Lady Cathy Justice said. “You can already feel the love pouring out of this community for Chloe, and that warms my heart. Chloe is one of many highly trained Friends With Paws therapy dogs, and I cannot wait to hear about the phenomenal impact she will make at Doddridge County High School. She is a very special dog, and I know she will support her students in more ways than one. High school can be a challenging time for kids, and Chloe will be there to help through it all.”
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Gov. Justice celebrates direct Charleston-to-New York flight on Breeze
New route represents first direct access to New York-Newark in more than a decade
Gov. Justice announced that Breeze Airways, the premium leisure low-cost carrier offering affordable nonstop service across the U.S., will soon begin service to New York-Newark from Charleston, starting November 14. Newark International Airport is one of the three main airports serving New York City.

"This partnership with Breeze Airways continues to exceed all expectations, and I'm thrilled that the airline is expanding its service to connect West Virginia with the New York area,” said Gov. Justice. “Airports significantly contribute to our economy, enhance tourism, and make our state more reachable. They are gateways to and from West Virginia, offering the world a chance to experience the beauty of our state. I look forward to Breeze’s continued success in West Virginia and to welcoming all the new visitors who will visit our great state because of this historic partnership.”
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Also this week:

Gov. Justice issues State of Preparedness for all 55 counties ahead of Tropical Storm Debby

Gov. Justice Releases 2024 Fall Foliage Projection Map

Gov. Justice announces Workers Compensation insurance rates to drop for 20th straight year, more good news for West Virginia

WVDOH awards contract to correct drainage problems in town of Rand
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Contact Information

CJ Harvey, cj.harvey@wv.gov; Rachael Harper, rachael.a.harper@wv.gov

Contact

Office of the Governor
State Capitol, 1900 Kanawha Blvd. E
Charleston, WV 25305

Office Phone:
304.558.2000 or 1.888.438.2731

Governor's Mansion:
304.558.3588

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