FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Saturday, April 1, 2023
CONTACT: Jordan Damron, [email protected]
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West Virginia Week in Review
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State of Preparedness still in effect with hazardous weather expected
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On March 23, 2023, Gov. Jim Justice declared a State of Preparedness for all 55 counties in response to forecasted hazardous weather.
The State of Preparedness remains in place for 30 days, and as such, State agencies, external partners, and resources remain on standby to respond quickly should help be needed.
The State Emergency Operations Center at the West Virginia Emergency Management Division (WVEMD) continues at Partial Activation. The WVEMD will closely monitor weather threats, stream levels, and remain in close contact with local emergency managers across the state for the duration of this event.
Check National Weather Service Watches, Warnings or Advisories for all areas of West Virginia here:
National Weather Service Charleston
National Weather Service Baltimore/Washington (Eastern Panhandle)
National Weather Service Blacksburg (Southeast WV)
National Weather Service Pittsburgh (Northern Panhandle)
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Gov. Justice announces historic partnership with Breeze Airways and West Virginia International Yeager Airport
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Gov. Justice announced a partnership with the successful new low cost carrier Breeze Airways to connect West Virginia International Yeager Airport (CRW) with at least five cities over the next two years.
New nonstop flights to Orlando, Florida (MCO) and Charleston, South Carolina (CHS) will begin May 31, 2023. The new routes are now on sale at introductory fares of $59 and $49, respectively, one way. At least three more destinations, including New York City, are slated to be added over the next 24 months.
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This innovative partnership between the state, Kanawha County, and the City of Charleston comes after years of decline in available destinations from smaller airports around the country, including West Virginia International Yeager Airport.
The flights announced will more than double air connectivity to West Virginia’s capital.
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Gov. Justice kicks off Gold Rush season with trout stocking; announces opening of Old Sewell Road
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Gov. Justice ceremonially kicked off the 2023 West Virginia Gold Rush during an event at Babcock State Park, earlier this week.
The West Virginia Gold Rush officially begins for anglers on Tuesday, March 28, and will include 12 days of special golden rainbow trout stockings at 68 lakes and streams around the state, including waters in or near 15 state parks. The sixth edition of the Gold Rush runs until April 8.
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During the stocking, Gov. Justice also announced the opening of Old Sewell Road, a hiking trail connecting Babcock State Park with New River Gorge National Park and Preserve.
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The newly renovated path runs alongside Glade Creek in Babcock State Park downstream to the New River, which includes Babydog Falls.
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Gov. Justice signs bill to expand BUILD WV Act, increases districts and funding
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Gov. Justice held a ceremonial bill signing this week at the Wiseman & High Apartments construction site in Fayetteville for HB 3036, which expands the BUILD WV Program.
The BUILD WV Act was the result of the concept brought forth by Gov. Justice during his 2022 State of the State address.
The bill expands the current BUILD WV Program which provides incentives to promote development of residential housing properties for the betterment and well-being of the people of West Virginia.
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The goal of BUILD WV, which is short for Better United In Long-term Development WV, is to assist in the growth of communities across the state and to attract new housing development. This bill increases the number of districts and the limit on approved costs under the BUILD WV Act.
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Gov. Justice appoints Denise Worley to Commissioner of Bureau of Senior Services
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Gov. Justice announced he has appointed Denise R. Worley as Commissioner of the West Virginia Bureau of Senior Services.
She will replace Robert E. Roswall, who is retiring after 36 years of service with the bureau, and 11 years as its leader when he was appointed to the position in 2012. Roswall’s retirement is effective March 31, 2023.
“I know Commissioner Worley will do incredible work,” Gov. Justice said. “There's no question in my mind whatsoever. We salute and thank Commissioner Roswall for all those great years, and now it’s Commissioner Worley’s turn. She’s got the ball, and we know she’ll run with it. So, congratulations, and we know you’re going to continue to provide the necessary leadership for this position.”
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Gov. Justice signs bill to establish West Virginia Mothers and Babies Pregnancy Support Program
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Gov. Justice, earlier this week, signed HB 2002, establishing the West Virginia Mothers and Babies Pregnancy Support Program. The bill also raises the adoption tax credit for non-family adoptions to $5,000.
With this bill, pregnancy help organizations are eligible to receive funding from the West Virginia Mothers and Babies Pregnancy Support Program, and it will expand DHHR’s Drug Free Moms and Babies program.
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Gov. Justice held the signing ceremony at the Cross Roads Pregnancy Care Center, a non-profit medical clinic offering free pregnancy services to women.
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Gov. Justice signs bills to strengthen regulations against Delta 8, Delta 9, others
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Gov. Justice, earlier this week, signed two bills — SB 220 and SB 546 — to strengthen regulations against drugs like Delta 8 and Delta 9 that are camouflaged as normal products.
The bills work together to ensure that children or adults cannot purchase unsafe products on the shelves of West Virginia stores.
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Gov. Justice, Babydog surprise students at Bluefield Primary with unexpected visit
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Gov. Justice and Babydog made a surprise visit to the students at Bluefield Primary School on Friday, using the time to share their love of reading with the bright young minds of the school.
What was initially supposed to be a virtual book reading over Zoom, Gov. Justice decided to go in person, much to the delight of everyone in attendance.
The students were thrilled, creating a memorable and exciting experience.
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First Lady Justice announces plans for annual Bunny Brunch and Easter Celebration
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First Lady Cathy Justice announced plans for the 2023 Bunny Brunch and Easter Celebration, which will be held Saturday, April 8, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the West Virginia Culture Center at the State Capitol Complex in Charleston.
The Culture Center will be transformed into an Easter Celebration, complete with a petting zoo, bicycle giveaways, princess storytelling, games, prizes, crafts, food, and an appearance by the Easter Bunny. There will also be a Golden Easter Egg Hunt with prizes awarded on the grounds of the Capitol.
The event is free of charge and open to the public.
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