Lewis County Community Guide March 18,2020 by Mountaineer Newspapers

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LEWIS COUNTY COMMUNITY GUIDE Serving all of Lewis County, West Virginia

Weston seeks new siren

Wednesday, March 18, 2020

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Trump asks Congress to send Americans stimulus checks during COVID-19 crisis

By Kari Conaway Staff Writer

WESTON — Weston Mayor Kim Harrison and Weston Fire Department Chief Kenny James talked to the Lewis County Commission Tuesday morning about a new emergency siren, because the old one is reportedly unreliable. Commissioners offered to have their electrician take a look at it because the problem is believed to be an electrical issue. They also discussed a KARI CONAWAY/Lewis County Community Guide potential curfew to be put in place during the COVID-19 Weston Mayor Kim Haroutbreak. rison and Weston Fire In other business, Lewis Department Chief Kenny County Commission was James discussed a new called to order by President emergency siren. Rod Wyman with a moment of silence and a recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. Assessor John Breen presented one exoneration and it was approved by Commissioners. Supervisor of West Fork Conservation District Randy Plaugher presented the annual operation and maintenance agreement, requesting for it to be approved. The commission tabled the matter until their budget meeting scheduled for Tuesday afternoon. Plaugher also thanked the Lewis County Commission for their support. Cheyenne Troxell, Director of the 26th Judicial Circuit Community Corrections, gave a report on the program. Some of the numbers were quite impressive to meeting attendees. The Community Corrections program has reportedly saved at least $1,667,520 from regional jail fees in 2019. This figure was based on six months of numbers compiled. Some of the profit the program receives comes See Siren on Page 4

West Virginia remains the only state without a confirmed case of Coronavirus. By Kari Conaway Staff Writer

WEST VIRGINIA — In a press conference Monday evening, President Donald J. Trump asked Congress to send the American people emergency economic aid stimulus checks within the next two weeks. These checks could add up to exceed $1 trillion. Trump also called for a 15-day quarantine period to prevent spreading the virus. He recommended to

keep gatherings down to 10 or less individuals and said do not dine in public restaurants, especially older citizens. The President also reported that the virus may lead the country into a recession that could last until July or August. As of press time Tuesday evening, West Virginia was the only state left in the country with no confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus. According to the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, the Mountain State has tested 84 residents for COVID-19, with 80 results

coming back negative and four tests pending. West Virginia and the territories American Samoa and Northern Mariana Islands are the only remaining places in the United States to have zero positive tests. As of Tuesday evening, the United States had 5,332 confirmed cases and 96 confirmed deaths caused by the COVID-19 coronavirus. New York had the most positive cases with 1,374 reported, but Washington has claimed the most deaths with 48. As the viral “March Illness” bracket champions stay

negative, health officials warn residents to stay positive and do not panic. Avoid large crowds and stay home as much as possible. Discretionary travel and social visits should be limited or avoided. Wash your hands, do not touch your face, and call your doctor if you feel ill. Symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, dry cough, muscle aches, and fatigue, with less common symptoms being headache, coughing up blood and diarrhea. Refer to the CDC website for official and current information at www.cdc.gov.

King: A Vote for Neighborhood Watch As the Rotary Turns the People back in action

By Karli Hamrick Staff Writer

By Kari Conaway Staff Writer

WESTON — Interested in politics since the early age of eight, Republican candidate Dylan King has decided to run for the West Virginia House of Delegates for the 46th District. Throughout the years, King said he realized most individuals are being left out of the political system. “Many feel like they have WV House of Delegates Reno say in the decisions publican Candidate Dylan made in Charleston or King Washington D.C.,” King explained. He feels that politicians should always make themselves available to the public and be the voice of their constituents. King stated, “I want to be that voice for Lewis and Upshur counties.” Voters can expect King will defend their Second Amendment right and more importantly he said, the unborn. King said he will also stand up against animal abuse and will support any effort to harshen the penalties for criminals. “My strong Pro-Life and Pro-Gun platform separates me from my Democratic opponents,” King explained. Separating himself from his primary opponents, King has strong stances on the tax system, as well as openness to change and new ideas. For example, he supports the lowering and/or elimination of personal property tax, income tax, death tax, capital gains tax, and several others. King has also signed a Tax Protection Pledge, saying See King on Page 6

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about voting information. Rowan reported that the last day to register is April 21 and citizens can change their address until the last day of early voting. Candidates can pick up mail-in forms in the County Clerk’s office to hand out to the public while they are out campaigning. Lists of places to vote are also available at the County Clerk’s office. Rowan also KARI CONAWAY/Lewis County Community Guide told attendees that there is Rotary President Linda Locke presents Lewis County Comalways a need for volunteers missioner Agnes Queen a complimentary mug to thank her to work the polls if anyone is for guest speaking on Blueprint Community. interested.

WESTON — The Weston-Central Neighborhood Watch group is back in action and met for the first time this year last Tuesday evening. Acting President Betty Brooks led the meeting, starting with the Pledge of Allegiance. The group discussed a neighborhood picnic, tentatively scheduled for July 24. County Clerk Cindy Rowan talked to the committee See Neighborhood on Page 4

By Kari Conaway Staff Writer

was approved and is the first county to be chosen as a Blueprint Community. The goal of Blueprint is bringing people together for the better of the community. Queen explained that when the things are happening in the community, it gives the Lewis County team points. Use the #BlueprintInitiative, #Blueprint and #LewisCountyBlueprint to help boost the team’s points. For example, the Minutemen Collaborate group was brought up in a recent meeting. The Blueprint communi-

W E S TO N — A g n e s Queen visited Rotary on Wednesday as the guest speaker to talk about the Blueprint Communities. Lewis County is one of six communities throughout West Virginia named as a Blueprint Community by the West Virginia HUB, including Kingwood and Martinsburg. Lewis County chose to apply KARI CONAWAY/Lewis County Community Guide as a county because it is as small as what a town would The Weston-Central Neighborhood Watch conducts their be considered. The county meeting at the Weston VFD last Tuesday evening. See Rotary on Page 6 THURSDAY Cloudy 55/34

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LEWIS COUNTY COMMUNITY GUIDE

Page 2

Wednesday, March 18, 2020

OBITUARIES

Kenny Lee Rose Kenny Lee Rose, 69, of Alum Bridge, departed from home on his final mission on Saturday, March 14, 2020 at Louis A. Johnson VA Medical Center in Clarksburg. He blessed this Earth and the lives of his parents when he was born in Sutton on May 3, 1950. Kenny was preceded in death by his parents: Jesse James King and Betty Jane Rose; one son, Waylon Will Rose; and one sister, Donna Ellen King. On January 17, 1975, he married the love of his life, Ella Jane Tanner, and together they shared the last 45 wonderful years of marriage. Forever cherishing their memories of Kenny are his wife, Ella Rose; one son, Josey Lee Rose and companion, Sarah Leigh Snider, of Weston; three grandchildren: Kayden Lee Rose, Zaybian Lee Rose and Waylon J. Lee Rose; four siblings: Raymond Leo King and wife, Lorelei, Gladys Jane Teter, Karen Marie Dean, and Tammy Sue Gillespie all of Sutton; and several nieces and nephews. Kenny joined the United States Army in 1967. He spent three years on active duty where he served in Vietnam as an Army Ranger and received several medals including a Purple Heart, National Defense Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Ranger Badge and many more. Kenny then spent the next several years in the United States Army Reserve. In his spare time, Kenny enjoyed spending time at home watching Fox News, movies, and T.V. in general. He also liked wearing his extensive collection of Western apparel and spending time outdoors fishing in the beautiful countryside of West Virginia. Kenny had a kind heart and would help anyone

in need. Above all, Kenny treasured his family and especially enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren. While Kenny deserves a beautiful tribute, this is an unknown time with the COVID-19 pandemic. We understand that attending a visitation or funeral may not be in your best health interest. Please be with us in spirit if you are unable to attend. Should you be able to celebrate his life with us, family and friends will gather for visitation at Pat Boyle Funeral Home and Cremation Service located at 144 Hackers Creek Rd. in Jane Lew from 12-2 p.m. on Thursday, March 19, 2020. Funeral Services will begin at 2 p.m. on Thursday in the Pat Boyle Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Wease Day officiating. Full military honors will be accorded by the United States Army and Lewis County Honor Guard. Following the services, Kenny’s request for cremation will be honored. We, at Pat Boyle Funeral Home and Cremation Service, appreciate the service of Kenny Lee Rose and it has been our honor and privilege to serve his family. Online condolences may be expressed at www.PatBoyleFuneralHome.com.

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WESTON — Sports in Lewis County and across the country have quickly came to a stop. Concerns over COVID-19 have ignited fear in many. A proclamation from West Virginia Governor Jim Justice halted the state basketball tournament, as well as all spring sports along with the closure of schools. The situation regarding sports will be reevaluated on April 10. Lewis County High School Athletic Director Brian Fisher called all basketball and spring sport athletes to the auditorium on Friday for an informational meeting concerning the Governor’s decision. He stated that not much information had been revealed at that time, but made clear that all sports have been suspended and they are not to practice on school property. Robert L. Bland Athletic Director Keri Lambert also called an informative meeting and reiterated the same information as Fisher. The WVSSAC also followed suit from other leagues such as the NBA, NHL, MLB, NASCAR, and the OHSSA (Ohio High School Athletic Association). Multiple Youth Leagues around the area have also suspended their seasons. Lewis Baseball Association took to Facebook to share their decision: “Due to the risks associated with coronavirus (Covid-19) and based on the recommendations of PONY Baseball and our local health department, all LBA activities are postponed immediately. “We plan to move forward with drafting our teams in preparation for Opening Day and will let you know which team your child is on as soon as possible. “We hope that this is a short delay, and we can get to playing baseball and softball really soon! This will likely impact baseball and softball differently, due to earlier start dates for softball. When we do get back to the field at Butchersville, we will have guidance in place to help fight the spread of germs among the players.” Lewis County Youth League Soccer also shared their decision on Facebook: “Unfortunately LCSA has suspended its season. The suspension will be in effect until schools are reopened. Our intention is to have a spring U Sseason. O NIf FtheAseason CEB OOK cannot resume full refunds will be issued.”

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Page 3 As the local news source for Lewis County, it is our job to keep our community informed as the coronavirus continues to spread, and state and county officials issue orders designed to protect the health and well-being of our community. We are grateful to have your readership and trust. Our role is always to provide credible, accurate and confirmed information. We have removed our coronavirus coverage from behind our metered paywall so that non-subscribers will have access to this without paying for a subscription. We want to thank all our subscribers and advertisers for making this coverage possible. In the midst of these unprecedented times, you can access our dedicated coronavirus page on our website at https://www.therecorddelta.com/health-updates. This is where all local and regional information, related to the coronavirus - COVID 19 is posted and updated. We also share this information across our social media platforms (Facebook and Twitter). Sincerely, James Austin Publisher

COVID-19 Testing Criteria explained for West Virginia

CHARLESTON — The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) is working to ensure that the public and medical providers understand the current Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) testing criteria and the fact that supplies for such are not unlimited. Currently, COVID-19 testing is used in accordance with guidelines from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The state’s public health lab, West Virginia Office of Laboratory Services (OLS), is the primary facility for COVID-19 testing until commercial laboratories and hospitals develop testing capacity for COVID-19. The state public health lab has remained available 7 days a week to provide testing for any healthcare or public health provider submitting specimens. At present, all tests submitted to OLS are being processed within a 2-3-day timeframe, often earlier. Most states are seeing turnaround time increase as testing submissions rise and supplies remain on backorder. Since early March, two groups have been and remain prioritized for COVID-19 testing through OLS. These groupings prioritize the likelihood of finding disease (testing those who are most likely to have been exposed), support care for those most at risk, and support proper infection control in the healthcare setting. Individuals prioritized for testing by OLS include the following: Seriously ill individuals hospitalized or otherwise at high risk of complications: This includes seriously ill individuals with symptoms of COVID-19 who are hospitalized, near hospitalization or otherwise at highest risk of poor health outcomes (e.g., those who are elderly or have serious underlying chronic diseases, nursing home residents, etc.) AND who do not have another identified cause for their illness (e.g., flu, other respiratory viruses). No history of potential exposure is needed for these patients. OR Individuals at medium to high risk of having been infected: This includes any individual with symptoms of lower respiratory illness (fever, cough, shortness of breath) AND a history of likely exposure to COVID-19 within 14 days of symptom onset (e.g., close contact with an individual confirmed to have COVID-19 or recent travel history from or living in areas with widespread community transmission) AND do not have another identified cause for their illness (e.g., flu, or other respiratory viruses). These are slight modifications of CDC Guidelines, focusing on those most ill in criteria one above, given that supplies are limited, and some products remain on backorder in West Virginia and nationally. They are subject to change. For current testing criteria, visit coronavirus.wv.gov. “DHHR continues to actively work with providers to assure they are knowledgeable about specimen collection and submission protocols, and to adjust to changing supplies and supply chains,” said Dr. Cathy Slemp, State Health Officer and Commissioner of DHHR’s Bureau for Public Health. “We are also working with local and federal partners to build novel testing systems as supplies and resources are made available federally.” All providers seeing patients meeting the above criteria and requesting testing through the state’s public health lab are asked to first obtain a public health consult in order to provide applicable patient information and coordinate specimen submission. Most individuals who are seriously ill have testing arranged by their healthcare provider. Individuals with a likely history of medium or high-risk exposure (as per above) may contact their healthcare provider by phone or call the Coronavirus Hotline, 1-800-887-4304, to help determine their need for testing. “Testing for COVID-19 may not be appropriate for everyone,” added Dr. Slemp. “A provider’s decision to order COVID-19 testing is based on several factors, including clinical judgment and the availability of testing supplies and lab resources.” With any respiratory illness, individuals who are sick with fever, cough, and other respiratory symptoms should stay home and self-isolate until fully well and cleared by a physician. During this time of anticipated large demand on the healthcare delivery system, individuals are asked to avoid unscheduled visits to healthcare providers. People who are mildly ill should not go to provider offices or be sent to emergency departments. Mildly ill people should stay home, follow CDC guidance, and contact their healthcare provider if needed. Providers who contract with LabCorp for COVID-19 testing should contact their representative to assure supplies and service. Several state hospital systems are working to implement newly emerging commercial products. Commercial and hospital labs may establish their own testing criteria in conjunction with the submitting provider and typically do so in ways to best utilize available supplies needed for testing. “Providers and facilities are encouraged to stay abreast of emerging technologies to assure they are ready to implement rapid tests and other products as they emerge on the market,” concluded Dr. Slemp. An information hotline to address public and medical provider questions and concerns regarding COVID-19 has been established. Operators are available 24/7, toll-free at 1-800-887-4304 to provide accurate information about COVID-19 and the risk to the public. A daily update is posted by DHHR regarding the number of cases of COVID-19 at www.coronavirus.wv.gov. For additional information, please visit http://www.cdc.gov/ COVID19.

LEWIS COUNTY COMMUNITY GUIDE

Wednesday, March 18, 2020

SBA updates criteria for requesting Disaster Assistance Loans for Small Businesses impacted by Coronavirus (COVID-19) WASHINGTON, D.C. — Tuesday, as part of the Trump Administration’s aggressive, whole-of-government efforts to combat the Coronavirus outbreak (COVID-19) and minimize economic disruption to the nation’s 30 million small businesses, U.S. Small Business Administration Administrator Jovita Carranza issued revised criteria for states or territories seeking an economic injury declaration related to Coronavirus (COVID-19). The relaxed criteria will have two immediate impacts: Faster, Easier Qualification Process for States Seeking SBA Disaster Assistance. Historically, the SBA has required that any state or territory impacted by disaster provide documentation certifying that at least five small businesses have suffered substantial economic injury as a result of a disaster, with at least one business located in each declared county/parish. Under the just-released, revised criteria, states or territories are only required to certify that at least five small businesses within the state/territory have suffered substantial economic injury, regardless of where those businesses are located. Expanded, Statewide Access to SBA Disaster Assistance Loans for Small

Businesses. SBA disaster assistance loans are typically only available to small businesses within counties identified as disaster areas by a Governor. Under the revised criteria issued today, disaster assistance loans will be available statewide following an economic injury declaration. This will apply to current and future disaster assistance declarations related to Coronavirus. “We’re very encouraged that banks and financial institutions are responding to the President’s efforts to mobilize an unprecedented public-private response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. As a result, most small businesses that need credit during these uncertain times will be able to obtain it. However, our goal is to ensure that credit is available to any and all small businesses that need credit but are unable to access it on reasonable terms through traditional lending channels,” said Administrator Carranza. “To that end, the SBA is relaxing the criteria through which states or territories may formally request an economic injury declaration, effective immediately. Furthermore, once an economic injury declaration has been made in a state or territory, the new rules allow the affected small

businesses within the state or territory to apply for a disaster assistance loan.” SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loans offer up to $2 million in assistance for each affected small business. These loans can provide vital economic support to small businesses to help overcome the temporary loss of revenue they are experiencing. ProcessforAccessingSBA’s Coronavirus (COVID-19) Disaster Relief Lending The U.S. Small Business Administration is offering designated states and territories low-interest federal disaster loans for working capital to small businesses suffering substantial economic injury as a result of the Coronavirus (COVID-19). Upon a request received from a state’s or territory’s Governor, SBA will issue under its own authority, as provided by the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act that was recently signed by the President, an Economic Injury Disaster Loan declaration. Any such Economic Injury Disaster Loan assistance declaration issued by the SBA makes loans available statewide to small businesses and private, non-profit organizations to help alleviate economic injury caused by the Coronavirus (COVID-19).

SBA’s Office of Disaster Assistance will coordinate with the state’s or territory’s Governor to submit the request for Economic Injury Disaster Loan assistance. Once a declaration is made, the information on the application process for Economic Injury Disaster Loan assistance will be made available to affected small businesses within the state. These loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills that can’t be paid because of the disaster’s impact. The interest rate is 3.75% for small businesses. The interest rate for non-profits is 2.75%. SBA offers loans with long-term repayments in order to keep payments affordable, up to a maximum of 30 years. Terms are determined on a case-by-case basis, based upon each borrower’s ability to repay. SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loans are just one piece of the expanded focus of the federal government’s coordinated response, and the SBA is strongly committed to providing the most effective and customer-focused response possible. For additional information, please visit the SBA disaster assistance website at SBA. gov/Disaster.

CHARLESTON — The Office of Gov. Jim Justice issues the following press release on behalf of the West Virginia Bureau of Senior Services: The Bureau of Senior Services is working with our county-based provider network and Area Agencies on Aging to address the needs of our seniors regarding novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Early this morning, we received new guidance

and policy related to our funds from the Administration on Community Living. All the senior providers have emergency plans for operations. New Federal policies will allow us to use our Federal Title funds to address the priority nutritional needs of our seniors. Home-delivered meals will continue and arrangements are being made for our congregate

meal recipients to also continue to receive meals. Shelf stable and emergency meals are being provided to all our current meal recipients. In-home services will also continue. There could be some variance in the schedule. Providers are required to maintain contact with their homebound and nutrition participants. Seniors can still call their Senior Center for information. Our kitchens will remain

open to continue to provide services, both hot meals and some shelf stable meals. We also strongly encourage seniors to follow State and Federal guidance if they are at risk. For more information about COVID-19 prevention and more, call the State’s toll-free hotline at 1-800-877-4304 or visit Coronavirus.wv.gov. You can also visit cdc.gov/coronavirus for more information.

West Virginia Bureau of Senior Services provides update on COVID-19 response

LEWIS COUNTY COMMUNITY GUIDE

Wednesday, March 18, 2020

St. Joseph’s Hospital revises patient and visitation policy to protect patients and the community BUCKHANNON — St. Joseph’s Hospital has revised its policy for patients and visitors in order to protect patients and the community. For patients coming to the hospital and/or the physician clinics, they are asked to limit those accompanying them to one person and are encouraged to come alone if possible. Individuals who are ill are not permitted to accompany patients. Patients experiencing fever, cough or shortness of breath will be asked to wear a mask provided at registration. For visitors the policy is as follows: Visitors to the second floor are limited to one adult at a time and they must register at the desk in the main lobby. For the OB department, visitors will be limited to one adult of the mother’s choice during her length of hospitalization. They must wear a bracelet issued by the OB department. No visitors are permitted in the Nursing Care Facility with the exception of those with approved medically necessary status. Children under the age of 16 are not permitted to visit.

St. Joseph’s Hospital sets up Nurse Triage Phone Line to serve patients BUCKHANNON — St. Joseph’s Hospital announced that they have set up a Nurse Triage Phone Line to serve patients who have questions about illnesses, respiratory symptoms or are concerned about infection from the Coronavirus. The phone number is (304) 473-2161 and will be staffed between the hours 7 a.m. and 10 p.m., Monday through Friday. For questions outside of those hours or on weekends, call (304) 473-2000.

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Page 4

AREA NEWS

Neighborhood from Page 1

The committee talked about problems in their community, including concerns about an intruder, houses being egged, rocks being thrown at a candidate’s sign, and one person even reported a stranger banging on the door demanding money in the middle of the night. Siren from Page 1

from the supervision fees, which totaled $19,491.75. The program benefits the county by reducing regional jail fees, reducing recidivism rates, completing community service projects and helping provide services in the ongoing substance abuse battle the county continues to fight. Commissioners reviewed the Upshur County Commission meeting agenda from March 12, the West Virginia Regional Jail and Correctional Facility Monthly Invoice totaling $52,592.50, the Rotary from Page 1

ty team consists of eleven members. When assembling their team, they tried to hit all government and agencies, a chamber or WVU extension employee, an educator, a bank partner, an economic developer, a medical, and a retailer. The team includes commissioners Agnes Queen and Rod Wyman, Cindy Whetsell for economic development, the Town of Jane Lew Mayor Ruth Straley, City of Weston Public Works Building Inspector Bryan Reed, Executive Director of Chamber Commerce Sherry Rogers as a floater, Superintendent Robin Lewis as the educator, Jeff Jenkins as the bank partner, Assistant Director from Stonewall Jackson Hospital

The committee read and approved the last meeting’s minutes from October 22. They also voted to change the monthly meeting times from Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. to Wednesdays at 6 p.m. Theresa Corathers won this month’s door prize. Betty Brooks passed out Sheetz coupons for one free glazed

donut. Several candidates at tended the meeting and introduced themselves to the group. At next month’s meeting, candidates will join the group and have three minutes to speak and two minutes to answer questions. Neighborhood Watch is the eyes and ears in the

community to help the police department. Weston-Central is one of three Neighborhood Watch committees in the county. The others are Ireland’s BLU and Alum Bridge. The next meeting will tentatively be Wednesday, April 15 at 6 p.m. in at the Weston’s Volunteer Fire Department.

Sheriff’s Monthly Statement for February 2020, and Lewis-Gilmer E-911 February 2020 Monthly Call Report, and February 2020 Advisory Board Meeting Minutes. For board reports, Commissioner Agnes Queen reported on budget meetings and work sessions, Alum Bridge Neighborhood Watch Meeting, Rotary Club meeting, calls regarding the COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak with the White House, the Governor’s office and the National Association of Counties (NACo). Wyman reported on the Fire Board meeting. County Administrator Cindy Whetsell re-

ported that businesses who have experienced negative loss of income, directly tied with COVID-19, can fill out a form online that will go to the Governor’s office so Lewis County can be declared eligible for funding available from the Food and Drug Administration. County Clerk Cindy Rowan reported on a phone conference with West Virginia Secretary of State Mac Warner about the election, which is still on at this time. Commissioners approved for a part-time Animal Control Officer to be advertised. Commissioners approved the General County Bud-

get Revision #4, which includes a revenue increase of $67,930.62. They also approved the actions of the clerk, estates, previous County Commission meetings minutes and expenses for the current period. The Lewis County Commission meets every Tuesday at 10 a.m. on the second floor of the Lewis County Courthouse, with the exception of State or Federal Holidays. The next meeting will tentatively be on Tuesday, March 24. All are welcome to attend unless alternative meeting arrangements become necessary due to COVID-19.

Kevin Stalnaker for medical, and realtor Bob Taylor. Each team also has a coach. Queen explained the team is constantly in meetings, webinars and conference calls. Some meetings are held in Bridgeport and some held in the community. Queen reported that the team has met more than any other West Virginia community team. Queen explained that the Blueprint Community is a ten-year contract and listed the steps they will complete. The first year is a training period. The team is preparing a 15-minute presentation to 30 or more funding agencies to ask for funding and “sell ourselves.” Queen reported that the presentation will be critiqued by these agencies and other teams to hear what they did wrong and what

they can do better. The team graduates in June. Queen reported there were 39 LLCs filed in the community since November. In January, Lewis County was in the Top Five in West Virginia for filing business licenses. Queen said they are short in every category. One issue is housing, because the average house is 80 years old. They also need housing for those commuting to work here. The team has listed their priorities as Rails for Trails, Recreation Center, Day Care Centers and Arts and Humanities. Lastly, Queen reported that since this started, a 50K mountain bike race in the county is being planned that could attract hundreds or thousands of people. In other business, Rotary President Linda Locke started the meeting with the reciting of the Pledge of Allegiance and Four-Way Test, as well as a blessing of the food and singing of the Get Together song. The club signed ‘Thank You’ and ‘Get

Well Soon’ cards. The meeting consisted of talking out details of the two Blood Screening events for March 28 and April 4 and the Elimination Dinner on April 18. So far, the blood screenings have since been cancelled, but the dinner is still happening. To close the meeting, Rotary member Katherine Friend won the raffle but did not draw the correct card, thus leaving the money for the next time. The Rotary Club of Weston is a nonprofit organization, focused on the “Four-Way Test”: 1. Is it the truth? 2. Is it fair to all concerned? 3. Will it build goodwill and better friendships? 4. Will it be beneficial to all concerned? The club is always looking for new members and meets every Wednesday at noon in the back of Giovanni’s Restaurant. However, due to the COVID-19 outbreak, the next Rotary meeting is to be determined, in order to prevent spreading the virus.

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LEWIS COUNTY COMMUNITY GUIDE

Wednesday, March 18, 2020

Page 5

HISTORY

This week in West Virginia history

CHARLESTON – The following events happened on these dates in West Virginia history. To read more, go to e-WV: The West Virginia Encyclopedia at www.wvencyclopedia.org. March 18, 1820: William Stevenson was born in Warren, Pennsylvania, but he later moved to Wood County in western Virginia. In 1868, he was elected the third governor of West Virginia. March 18, 1922: Athlete Frank ‘‘Gunner’’ Gatski was born in Farmington. Gatski played 11 years for the Browns (1946–56) and one for Detroit (1957). He played in 10 championship games, eight on the winning side. March 18, 1950: Actor Brad Dourif was born in Huntington. He is best known for his portrayal of offbeat characters, including Billy Bibbitt in One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest and Grima Wormtongue in Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings trilogy. March 19, 1925: Basketball teams from 11 of West Virginia’s 24 African-American high schools took the court at West Virginia State College (now University) in Institute for the first West Virginia Athletic Union (WVAU) state basketball tournament. Lincoln High School of Wheeling defeated Kimball, 25-24, in the final game to win the championship. March 19, 1992: Four miners were killed at the Blacksville No. 1 Mine in Monongalia County while the mine was being sealed. Drainage pipes were being welded together, and a spark fell into the shaft, igniting methane gas. March 20, 1849: Businessman James Kay was born in Scotland. He constructed the coke ovens at Hawks Nest, installed a cable car to carry coal across the New River, and installed a tramway to move miners and coal up and down the gorge face at Kaymoor. March 20, 1897: Musician Frank Hutchison was born in

Raleigh County. With a slide guitar sound akin to the bottleneck style, he helped to instill a blues strain in modern country music, and was influential among coalfield musicians. March 20, 1936: Recurring storms led to major flooding on the Ohio River. At Parkersburg, the river reached 48 feet, 10 feet above flood stage. March 21, 1914: The West Virginia boys’ high school basketball tournament began in Buckhannon. The event was first sponsored by West Virginia Wesleyan College, which at the time had West Virginia’s largest and finest gymnasium. March 22, 1922: Physician Mildred Mitchell-Bateman was born in Georgia. She became the first black woman in West Virginia to hold a high-level state administrative position when, in 1962, Governor William Wallace Barron appointed her as the director of the Department of Mental Health. March 23, 2003: Private Jessica Lynch of Palestine, Wirt County, was serving as a supply clerk with the Army’s 507th Maintenance Company when she was captured by Iraqi forces after her group was ambushed. March 24, 1890: Confederate General William Lowther ‘‘Mudwall’’ Jackson died in Louisville. Jackson, who was born in Clarksburg, joined the Confederate Army as a private. After helping to organize an infantry unit, he was promoted to colonel. He served on the staff of his cousin, Gen. Thomas J. ‘‘Stonewall’’ Jackson, and was jokingly nicknamed ‘‘Mudwall.’’ e-WV: The West Virginia Encyclopedia is a project of the West Virginia Humanities Council. For more information, contact the West Virginia Humanities Council, 1310 Kanawha Blvd. E., Charleston, WV 25301; (304) 346-8500; or visit e-WV at www.wvencyclopedia.org.

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LEWIS COUNTY COMMUNITY GUIDE

Page 6

Wednesday, March 18, 2020

AREA NEWS

Looking for furever homes

King from Page 1

that if elected, he will not support any measures to raise taxes. King wants to help protect small businesses, as well as help bring new job opportunities to our state. King also supports the legalization of medicinal marijuana. King expressed, “Unlike many candidates, the public can expect me to be available when it comes to concerns, questions, and/or suggestions.” King graduated Salutatorian from Lewis County High School in 2018 and is currently studying Psychology and Pre-Law/Legal Studies at West Virginia Wesleyan College. King comes from a background in entrepreneurship, as his parents own and operate two small businesses in Lewis County: King’s Electric and the Oil Spot in Weston. King also expressed he is the only candidate who has a background in American Government. “I believe my young age will give the people of West Virginia a new outlook on ideas.” Although King is firm in his ideas and stances, he assured that he’s always interested in listening to suggestions that better the community. “Unlike most politicians, I do not claim to always have the right answer, so I enjoy hearing others in the community…I want to make a change and I will not be afraid to cross party lines to do it,” King expressed. King is opposed by Libertarian Mike Lockard, Democratic candidates Bob Stultz and Brittany Barlett, and Republican candidates Adam Burkhammer and Steve Moneypenny. King would like to express to voters going into the election that he truly wants to be their voice. “I want to be the change for Lewis and Upshur Counties… I have the passion and all the qualifications necessary for the job,” expressed King. He is enthusiastic about the people in Lewis and Upshur being a part of the process by exercising their right to vote and is hopeful for a great turn out on May 12.

By Tara Kennedy Editor

BUCKHANNON — The Lewis-Upshur Animal Control Facility needs help finding furever homes for Cee Cee and Theo. Volunteers from Luv 4 Animals and The Animal Outreach Project would also like to encourage pet owners to make accommodations for cold weather by ensuring their outdoor animals have sufficient housing and bedding. Please contact these groups on Facebook if you need assistance. Cee Cee is a beautiful red and white hound mix. She is 2 years old and weighs 36 pounds. Cee Cee was found in the Audra area, but has not been claimed by her owner yet. She is very friendly and great with children. Cee Cee has not been spayed yet, but assistance is available if needed. Theo is an intact male Tabby cat with short hair. He is 2 years old and weighs 7

pounds. Theo is a bit nervous in the pound, so he’d really like to find his new family soon. Cee Cee and Theo, as well as many other loving cats and dogs, are available for adoption at the Lewis-Upshur Animal Control Facility located on Mud Lick Road in Buckhannon, so stop by and find the perfect pet for your family. Adopt, don’t shop! L-UAC is always in need of volunteers if you Cee Cee are looking for a rewarding and worthwhile cause to assist. Donations of food and pet supplies are always welcome. L-UAC is open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to noon, and also now the first Sunday of each month 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., or you can call (304) 472-3865 to schedule an appointment. If you need assistance with proper animal housing, bedding or any other pet needs, please contact Luv 4 Animals or The Animal Outreach Project on Facebook. Theo

business. We believe our government — your government — can only be of, by and for the people when it is out in front of the people. Primary to our Republic is the understanding that we are the government and the government is us. The only powers held by federal, state or local government are the powers we give. So, whether it is Congress, the state’s General Assembly, county commission, city council or the board of education, it is your right

to know all of the people’s business. When you attend local city, county or school board meetings, ask questions and hold elected representatives accountable, you are not minding their business, you are minding your own business. When you make a public records request, you are not asking local records custodians to give you something that just belongs to them or the office where they work. You are simply asking for your own documents.

Sunshine Week: It’s always your right to know

By Jim Zachary

does, whether in open public CNHI Deputy National Editor meetings or behind closed doors, is your business. We believe every last penny government spends is your The media is most definitely money. We believe it is your not your enemy. right to know every transaction, Far from being the enemy of every decision, every expendithe people, day in and day out ture and every deliberation of we take our role as the Fourth your government. Estate seriously and work hard Whether talking about the to protect your right to know, White House, the statehouse or making public records requests the county courthouse, all the and attending public meetings documents held in government to keep you informed. halls belong to the people, and Why? Because we believe all the business conducted all the business government by our governors is public

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The Bill of Rights, specifically the First Amendment which guarantees the freedom of speech and the freedom of press, is not intended to protect the media per se. Rather, the founders built a hedge of protection around the media because the media guards and fights for the public’s right to know. According to a Brookings Institution report, more than 2,000 newspapers across the country ceased publication in the last 15 years or so. The shuttering of newspapers presents

a very real and present danger to our most basic freedoms. That’s why communities should support their local newspapers, through subscriptions and advertising, now more than ever before. Journalists keep an eye on government, shine the light on its actions, fight the good fight for access to documents and meetings, champion transparency and defend the First Amendment because of a core belief in your basic, fundamental rights — principally, your right to know.

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