Deep in the heart of coal country, Williamson, WV could have easily resigned itself to be a casualty of the decline in the industry that built it. But this Mingo County town is proving it’s powered by an even greater energy source: a hopeful community.
While others debate the uses of the Mountain State’s abundant natural resources, the West Virginia Army National Guard is taking action and paving the way to community and economic invigoration through the use of reclaimed post-mine land.
With her father’s Bible in hand and her husband, Charlie, at her side, Shelley Moore Capito took an oath on January 6 to represent West Virginia in the U.S. Senate. The moment was a culmination of a lifetime of service and a continuation of her parents’ legacy.
In 2014, two West Virginia hospitals ushered in a new era with a change in leadership. David Henry joined Bluefield Regional Medical Center as the new CEO, and West Virginia University Hospitals welcomed Albert Wright as president and CEO. Both men bring with them a unique resumé of experience and a new vision for the health of West Virginians.
In 2008, West Virginia had the highest rate of deaths related to prescription drug overdoses in the United States. The Mountain State and the surrounding region have led national trends concerning prescription drug abuse and misuse, and while the physical and mental aspects have been devastating, prescription drugs are costing more than lives. The economic burden incurred by West Virginia, Tennessee and Kentucky due to the criminal justice costs, loss in worker productivity and treatment totals $2.72 billion annually. Nationally, the loss of productivity, premature death, unemployment and incarcerated individuals comes at a price tag of $42 billion every year.
Travelers who seek recreation destinations in West Virginia have a library of locations from which to choose, some of the best of which are state parks.