FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Saturday, September 28, 2024
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West Virginia Week in Review
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Gov. Justice issues State of Preparedness for 22 counties ahead of Hurricane Helene
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Ahead of heavy rainfall and high winds expected from the remnants of Hurricane Helene, Gov. Justice issued a State of Preparedness for 22 West Virginia counties.
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"While this weather may help with issues related to our ongoing drought, too much could lead to big problems like flooding and power outages," Gov. Justice said. "That's why I'm declaring this State of Preparedness—to ensure our state agencies are ready. We need the rainfall, but we also need to use common sense when it comes to the hazardous weather. Please use extreme caution as we deal with the aftermath of this hurricane."
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Gov. Justice announces nursing expansion initiative results in record number of nursing graduates in West Virginia
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Gov. Justice announced that his successful Nursing Workforce Expansion Program, established two years ago to address West Virginia’s nursing shortage, has helped the state’s colleges and universities produce an all-time high number of nursing graduates.
From 2022 to 2023, there was a nearly 15% increase in the number of registered nursing students graduating with associate degrees – from 590 to 676 graduates in one year alone – which represents a record number of nursing graduates in West Virginia. In comparison, the total number of nursing graduates among all degree levels in 2023 was approximately 15% higher than a decade ago.
“I am incredibly proud of the results we’ve achieved with the Nursing Workforce Expansion Program,” Gov. Justice said. “By investing in our future nurses, we’ve set new records for nursing graduates in West Virginia. Nurses are the backbone of our healthcare system, and this initiative ensures we’re not just filling jobs, but equipping these healthcare heroes with the best training and support possible. This is a historic step forward for our state, and it's only the beginning of what we can accomplish to strengthen our healthcare workforce."
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Friends With Paws celebrates therapy dog at Calhoun County Middle High School
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First Lady Cathy Justice announced that one of the state’s newest therapy dogs through the Friends With Paws program is thriving and doing incredible work at Calhoun County Middle High School.
Coco is a male Chocolate Labrador Retriever and was celebrated during a Pup Rally held at the school. Representatives from the First Lady’s Office, along with students, faculty, staff, and several other local leaders, were in attendance.
While Coco is the 29th dog placed through the program, a total of 38 Friends With Paws therapy dogs have been placed throughout the state.
"We are thrilled to celebrate Coco at Calhoun County Middle High School," First Lady Cathy Justice said. "Therapy dogs like Coco offer so much more than just a friendly face—they provide comfort, reduce stress, and create a calming environment for our students. These dogs are making a real difference, offering support when it's needed most, helping children feel safe, and encouraging emotional well-being. Coco will be a cherished companion and an important part of this school's journey toward a brighter, healthier future."
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