The year 2020 was difficult for everyone, but it seems there is hope to be found in 2021, with more of the population receiving coronavirus vaccines and restrictions lessening. People are starting to feel safe once more and are picking up where they left off before the COVID-19 pandemic put a halt to their normal, everyday lives.
While the onset of the coronavirus pandemic took a significant toll on the economy, the manufacturing industry across the country and in West Virginia remains a bright spot. As efforts continue to re-shore manufacturing, evaluate supply chains and integrate new technologies, manufacturing production will continue to rise.
During the 2021 session of the West Virginia Legislature, House Bill 3239 was introduced and called for the creation of the West Virginia Energy Diversity Study Commission to identify areas where additional electric power generation facilities may be located that utilize renewable energy sources to lower carbon emission. While the bill did not make it to the Senate, it is not the first to be introduced stirring discussion on the potential for the increased use of alternative and renewable energy sources in West Virginia.
In celebration of those who have adopted our Mountain Mama as their own, “Talent Transplant” recognizes Mountaineers who were born elsewhere but relocated here, embraced our beloved state and now help us work toward a brighter future.
Tourism has always been a critical piece of West Virginia’s economy. But amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s been nothing less than a lifesaver, especially in Southern West Virginia, where fresh air and the wild, natural beauty of the mountains have come back in a big way.
West Virginia Senate President Craig Blair is a husband, father, businessman, Class V certified water specialist, master electrician and master plumber. A true jack of all trades, he decided to add public servant to his resume in 2002 when he was elected to the West Virginia House of Delegates, where he served until 2008.