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Governor Morrisey Celebrates West Virginia Pumpkin Festival in Milton, Issues Grant for Green Acres Regional Center
Governor Morrisey Celebrates West Virginia Pumpkin Festival in Milton, Issues Grant for Green Acres Regional Center | WV Office of the Governor Patrick Morrisey An Official West Virginia Government Website State Agency Directory | Online Services | Phone Directory Governor Morrisey Celebrates West Virginia Pumpkin Festival in Milton, Issues Grant for Green Acres Regional Center October 1, 2026 MILTON, W.Va. - Governor Patrick Morrisey today joined West Virginians at the 41st annual West Virginia Pumpkin Festival in Milton, celebrating one of the state’s signature fall traditions and highlighting the important role community events play in West Virginia’s growing tourism economy. “For more than 40 years, the West Virginia Pumpkin Festival has brought families together to celebrate our farmers, our traditions, and everything that makes fall in West Virginia special,” said Governor Morrisey. “People want to experience our mountains and rivers, but they also want to visit our small towns and experience what makes our communities special. Events like this give people another reason to come to West Virginia, support local businesses, and discover everything our state has to offer.” The West Virginia Pumpkin Festival began in 1986 as a way to help area farmers raise and sell pumpkins and has grown into a four-day celebration featuring giant pumpkins, Appalachian crafts, live music, traditional demonstrations, local vendors, and activities for families and students. This year’s theme, “Stars and Stripes and Pumpkin Delights,” continues the patriotic spirit West Virginians displayed during the state’s America250 celebrations earlier this year. Governor Morrisey traveled across the state leading up to and throughout Independence Day as communities came together for parades, ceremonies, concerts, and other events celebrating America’s 250th birthday. The Governor’s visit comes as West Virginia continues to post record tourism numbers. In 2025, nearly 80 million people visited the state, generating $6.8 billion in visitor spending, a record $9.4 billion in economic impact, and supporting more than 61,000 jobs across West Virginia. Tourism growth is part of West Virginia’s broader economic comeback. Since October 2025, the state has announced approximately $96 billion in private-sector investment and more than 19,000 projected jobs. Governor Morrisey also recognized Green Acres Regional Center and LeSage Natural, which is supplying water for this year’s event. Green Acres was recently a recipient of a $300,000 award through the Governor’s Contingency Fund to support critical capital improvements, expand operations, and help preserve employment opportunities as the organization navigates the loss of county levy funding. “Green Acres shows us that economic development and helping our fellow West Virginians can go hand in hand,” said Governor Morrisey. “They are creating jobs, giving people an opportunity to contribute and build greater independence, and producing a West Virginia product that serves thousands of customers. We were proud to invest in their mission, and I’m proud to recognize the men and women behind their success here today.” The West Virginia Pumpkin Festival runs October 1-4 at the West Virginia Pumpkin Park in Milton.
WVDOT Communications
WVDOT Communications | WV Department of Transportation Skip to main content An Official West Virginia Government Website State Agency Directory | Online Services | Phone Directory WVDOT Communications Connecting West Virginians to the Way We Work The West Virginia Department of Transportation (WVDOT) Communications Office is dedicated to keeping you informed and involved. West Virginia proudly operates the sixth largest state-maintained highway system in the United States, and we believe a network of that size deserves a clear and open conversation. This hub is your direct link to the work we do. We provide the latest news, project updates, and essential resources for all agencies operating under the WVDOT umbrella: Division of Highways (WVDOH) Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Division of Public Transit Public Port Authority The Parkways Authority Explore our channels and stay updated as we manage, maintain, and modernize the infrastructure that keeps the Mountain State moving. WVDOT Public Relations Resources Press Releases WV on the DOT Podcast Highlighted Videos WVDOT Today! Employee Newsletter Covered Bridges Prints for Framing Marvelous Bridges Prints for Framing Connect With Us on Social Media Connect With Us: WVDOT Facebook WVDOT Twitter (X) WVDOT Interactive Work Map WVDOT Youtube WVDOT Instagram Media Inquiries Journalists and media representatives should direct all inquiries to Brent Walker. Email:[email protected] To ensure a prompt response, please include the following details in your email: Specific questions Project name and County Your deadline WVDOT Public Relations 1900 Kanawha Boulevard, East Building 5, Room A-137 Charleston, WV 25305 Safety With Action Today (SWAT) Have a concern about your local roads? We’re here to help. Use the SWAT hotline to report road issues in your community. We track every request to ensure you receive a timely response and a resolution. Call:1-833-WVROADS Email:[email protected] Online:Submit a SWAT Report 1900 Kanawha Blvd E Building 5 Charleston, WV 25305 United States Contact Us Communications Disclaimer WVDOT Careers WVDOT Privacy Notices Get in Touch Hi there! 👋 I'm the WVDOT Public Assistant. How can I help you today? WVDOT Public Assistant ONLINE Establishing Connection... Disclaimer: The information provided is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The WVDOT does not assume liability for actions taken based on the Assistant's responses. Privacy, Security and Accessibility | WV.gov | USA.gov | © 2026 State of West Virginia
Engaging Events Planned at Doddridge County Library
Visit the Doddridge County Library for a variety of engaging events for all ages. Activities include children's story hours, book club meetings, and special guest presentations. Check the library's event calendar for the latest schedule.
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Governor Morrisey Announces More Than $4 Million in Rural Health Transformation Awards to Minnie Hamilton Health Care Center
Governor Morrisey Announces More Than $4 Million in Rural Health Transformation Awards to Minnie Hamilton Health Care Center September 30, 2026 CHARLESTON, W.Va. - Governor Patrick Morrisey today announced more than $4 million in West Virginia Rural Health Transformation Program (WV RHTP) awards to Minnie Hamilton Health Care Center, supporting a new mobile healthcare effort and additional provider productivity investments designed to expand access to care and strengthen healthcare delivery across central West Virginia. “The future of rural healthcare isn't just building healthcare around facilities. It's building healthcare around people,” Governor Morrisey said. “This investment will help bring care closer to patients, expand access across rural communities, and create new opportunities for residents to receive quality healthcare without having to travel long distances from home.” One of the awards, totaling to $1.7 million through the State’s Connected Care Grid initiative, will support deployment of a mobile medical clinic designed to bring healthcare services directly into rural communities across the region. The mobile unit will provide primary care, chronic disease management, behavioral health services, wound care, diagnostic services, telehealth specialty consultations, and care coordination closer to where patients live. The mobile healthcare project will focus on helping residents access preventive care earlier, better manage chronic health conditions, and stay connected to follow-up services and ongoing care. By strengthening care coordination and expanding access to primary, behavioral health, and specialty services, the initiative is designed to improve health outcomes and support healthier communities across the region. “This project is exactly the type of innovation rural communities need,” said Secretary of Health Dr. Arvin Singh. “The mobile unit will bring healthcare directly to patients, helping remove barriers to care while connecting residents to preventive services, chronic disease management, specialty consultations, and follow-up support. It is a practical investment that can make a meaningful difference in people's lives.” In addition to the mobile health unit investment, Minnie Hamilton Health Care Center will launch an innovative bi-regional shared-service collaborative to modernize rural emergency medical response by deploying autonomous drone delivery for time-critical supplies, blood products, and lab specimens across West Virginia. This will compress emergency response times and streamline provider operations across four rural counties, replacing fragmented couriers with a single reimbursable service line to improve health outcomes and support long-term healthcare sustainability. A third project will implement artificial intelligence-supported clinical documentation technology. Per the hospital, the technology can reduce provider documentation time by up to 70 percent and potentially allow clinicians to see one to two additional patients per day while improving documentation quality and care coordination. “The Trump Administration’s Rural Health Transformation Program is equipping states like West Virginia with the resources they need to deliver lasting improvements for rural communities,” said CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz. “From bringing care directly to patients to using new technologies that strengthen emergency response and expand provider capacity, these investments will help rural families get high-quality care when and where they need it.” Together, these investments reflect Minnie Hamilton Health Care Center's commitment to expanding healthcare access, embracing innovation, and strengthening rural healthcare delivery throughout central West Virginia. From bringing care directly into communities to supporting providers with new technologies, these projects will help more West Virginians access high-quality care closer to home. This press release is supported by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of the financial assistance award totaling $199,476,098.72 with 100% funded by CMS HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor endorsement, by CMS/HHS, or the U.S. Government.
Governor Morrisey Announces More Than $3.2 Million in Rural Health Transformation Investments
Governor Morrisey Announces More Than $3.2 Million in Rural Health Transformation Investments | WV Department of Health An Official West Virginia Government Website State Agency Directory | Online Services | Phone Directory Search Text Box Governor Morrisey Announces More Than $3.2 Million in Rural Health Transformation Investments September 30, 2026 New awards will reduce paperwork, strengthen the healthcare workforce, and expand access to care across West Virginia CHARLESTON, W.Va. - Governor Patrick Morrisey today announced more than $3.2 million in West Virginia Rural Health Transformation Program (WV RHTP) investments during a visit to Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital, supporting healthcare innovation, provider productivity, workforce development, and care coordination initiatives that will benefit communities across West Virginia. “These investments are about delivering results for patients and communities across West Virginia,” Governor Morrisey said. “When healthcare providers have the tools, workforce, and support they need to succeed, patients receive better care, access improves, and communities become stronger. Today's awards are another step toward building a healthier West Virginia and creating more opportunities for our people to thrive.” Award highlights include: Five rural hospitals (Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital, Mon Health Marion Neighborhood Hospital, Preston Memorial Hospital, Plateau Medical Center, and Webster Memorial Hospital) received funding to deploy artificial intelligence (AI)-powered ambient clinical listening technology that can reduce documentation burden and allow providers to spend more time with patients. Broaddus Hospital received funding to establish the Mansfield Place TeleHub Pilot, expanding access to specialty care, behavioral health services, and urgent clinical consultation for rural skilled nursing residents through telemedicine technology. Vandalia Health received an additional award to help rural hospitals and clinics fill critical staffing shortages, support more than 100 healthcare staffing placements, and strengthen long-term recruitment and retention of healthcare professionals across West Virginia. Collectively, today's investments address several of the most significant challenges facing rural healthcare providers, including workforce shortages, provider burnout, administrative burden, limited access to specialty care, fragmented care coordination, and barriers to healthcare access in rural communities. “These projects demonstrate how innovation, workforce development, and strategic partnerships can work together to improve healthcare delivery across West Virginia,” said Secretary of Health Arvin Singh. “From reducing paperwork for providers to strengthening care coordination and expanding workforce capacity, these investments are designed to improve outcomes for patients and communities throughout our state.” “The Trump Administration’s Rural Health Transformation Program is based on one simple idea: your access to quality health care shouldn’t depend on your ZIP code,” said Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz. “Funding new approaches to improve care coordination and strengthen the healthcare workforce is an important step toward achieving that vision for rural West Virginians, and I look forward to seeing equally transformative innovations in rural communities nationwide.” The awards were made through the SmartCare Catalyst Provider Productivity Support Fund and Mountain State Care Force initiatives of the West Virginia Rural Health Transformation Program. Additional awards will be announced as implementation continues across the state. This press release is supported by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of the financial assistance award totaling $199,476,098.72 with 100% funded by CMS HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor endorsement, by CMS/HHS, or the U.S. Government. Contact Email [email protected] One Davis Square Suite 100, East Charleston, WV 25301 United States Boards and Commissions Developmental Disabilities Council WV Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing WV Governor's Early Intervention Interagency Coordinating Council Nondiscrimination Policies and Plans Get in Touch Privacy, Security and Accessibility | WV.gov | USA.gov | © 2026 State of West Virginia
Governor Morrisey Announces More than $1.1 Million in Rural Health Transformation Awards to Community Care of West Virginia
Governor Morrisey Announces More than $1.1 Million in Rural Health Transformation Awards to Community Care of West Virginia September 30, 2026 SUTTON, W.Va. - Governor Patrick Morrisey today announced more than $1.1 million in West Virginia Rural Health Transformation Program (WV RHTP) awards to Community Care of West Virginia (CCWV) to expand access to healthcare in rural communities and build a stronger healthcare workforce across the state. “Better healthcare outcomes and a stronger workforce go hand in hand,” Governor Morrisey said. “These investments will bring care closer to people who need it while creating new pathways for West Virginians to build careers in healthcare. By improving access to care and strengthening our healthcare workforce, we can help more West Virginians get healthy, return to work, and contribute to stronger communities across our state.” The four awards span the Connected Care Grid (CCG) and Mountain State Care Force (MSCF) initiatives and will expand telehealth and mobile healthcare services while creating new career advancement and apprenticeship opportunities for healthcare workers: $92,736 to expand virtual access to care by upgrading telehealth technology and infrastructure supporting behavioral health, addiction medicine, maternal health, school-based health, and medical weight management services. $574,082 to deploy a mobile healthcare unit serving Braxton, Clay, and Pocahontas counties. The unit will provide primary care, preventive services, behavioral health, addiction medicine, and care coordination. CCWV projects approximately 560 patient encounters during its first year. $82,432 to help current healthcare employees advance their careers through certifications, licensure programs, specialized training, and educational opportunities. Approximately 26 employees are expected to participate during the first year. $354,364 to establish a statewide rural healthcare apprenticeship program combining paid employment with classroom instruction and hands-on clinical training. Approximately 20 apprentices are expected to participate during the first year in career pathways including medical assistants, community health workers, pharmacy technicians, case managers, and certified nursing assistants. Community Care of West Virginia is a West Virginia-based Federally Qualified Health Center operating more than 60 service delivery sites and 10 pharmacies, serving approximately 54,500 patients annually and employing more than 600 healthcare professionals and support staff. “These awards demonstrate how investments in healthcare access and workforce development can work together to strengthen rural communities,” Secretary of Health Dr. Arvin Singh said. “By combining telehealth expansion, mobile healthcare services, workforce advancement, and apprenticeship opportunities, these projects create a comprehensive approach to improving healthcare access, strengthening workforce pipelines, and supporting healthier communities across West Virginia.” “The Trump Administration’s Rural Health Transformation Program is equipping states with the resources they need to deliver lasting improvements for rural communities,” said Alina Czekai, Director of CMS' Office of Rural Health Transformation. “We’re proud to partner with states on practical, community-driven solutions that expand access to care and build stronger, more sustainable rural health systems.” Additional awards will be announced as West Virginia continues implementing its Rural Health Transformation Program to improve healthcare outcomes, expand access to care, strengthen the healthcare workforce, and help more West Virginians get healthy and return to work. This press release is supported by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of the financial assistance award totaling $199,476,098.72 with 100% funded by CMS HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor endorsement, by CMS/HHS, or the U.S. Government. Office of the Governor State Capitol 1900 Kanawha Blvd. E Charleston, WV 25305 United States Ph 304.558.2000 or 1.888.438.2731 Fx 304.558.3588 Write Us a Message Schedule a Meeting or Event Get in Touch Privacy, Security and Accessibility | WV.gov | USA.gov | © 2026 State of West Virginia
Governor Morrisey Announces $19.725 Million in Major Upgrades Across West Virginia State Parks and Forests
Governor Morrisey Announces $19.725 Million in Major Upgrades Across West Virginia State Parks and Forests September 30, 2026 CHARLESTON, W.Va. - Governor Patrick Morrisey today announced approximately $19.725 million in investments to modernize, repair, and expand facilities across West Virginia’s state parks, forests, and outdoor recreation areas. Watch the Governor’s announcement here. “West Virginia’s tourism industry is reaching new heights, and our state parks and forests are a big part of that success,” said Governor Morrisey. “We’re going to keep investing in the places that bring people here, support our local businesses, and show the rest of the country what makes West Virginia so special.” The announcement comes as West Virginia’s tourism economy reaches record heights, generating $9.4 billion in economic impact last year. West Virginia welcomed 78.4 million visitors, who generated $6.8 billion in visitor spending and supported 61,728 jobs across the Mountain State. The new investments, which include $9.725 million from the FY27 budget surplus and a proposed $10 million in projects through the West Virginia State Parks Endowment Fund Board, come as West Virginia continues to build economic momentum across the state. In less than a year, West Virginia has announced more than $96 billion in private-sector investment and more than 19,000 projected jobs. FY27 Budget Surplus Investments ($9.725 Million) Thanks to responsible fiscal management, $9.725 million from the FY27 budget surplus will support improvements across the State Park system: ● Little Beaver State Park will receive $3 million for construction of a new 34-site campground and electrical improvements to nearby existing campsites. ● Pipestem Resort State Park and Cass Scenic Railroad State Park will receive $150,000 for roof replacements on aging cabins and historic company houses. ● Statewide paving and repairs will receive $4 million for campsites, driveways, parking lots, and walkways throughout the State Park system. ● Blennerhassett Island State Park will receive $300,000 to replace its service barge and tugboat, the GiGi, which provide the only reliable way to deliver supplies, equipment, and other goods to the island. ● Twin Falls State Park will receive $2.275 million for comprehensive cabin renovations, lodge HVAC upgrades, and upgraded cabin interiors and mattresses. State Parks Endowment Fund Board Proposed Projects ($10 Million) An additional $10 million in projects is proposed through the West Virginia State Parks Endowment Fund Board: ● Chief Logan State Park will receive $3 million to replace a deteriorating 20,000-gallon-per-day wastewater treatment plant serving the lodge, cabins, recreation center, and future facilities. ● Canaan Valley will receive $1 million for snowmaking equipment enhancements, allowing for a higher volume of snowmaking throughout the skiable area. ● Statewide wastewater repairs will receive $2 million to replace aging sand filtration components and enhance wastewater treatment plants throughout the State Park system. ● Cacapon Resort State Park will receive $3 million for wastewater collection system repairs and necessary plant upgrades serving the lodge, cabins, golf course, and other recreational facilities. ● Hawks Nest State Park will receive $1 million to rehabilitate the lower tram building, including renovations to the gift shop, restrooms, and boat rental concession area. “These investments are about building on our momentum,” said Governor Morrisey. “When people visit West Virginia, they spend money in our communities, support our small businesses, and experience firsthand why this is such a great place to live, work, raise a family, and visit. We want to give them even more reasons to come back.”
Find Your Furry Companion: Adoptable Pets at Monongalia County Animal Shelter
Meet Your New Best Friend! Our shelter is currently housing wonderful dogs, cats, and other small animals eagerly awaiting their forever homes. Browse through their profiles to find a companion that perfectly suits your lifestyle. Each profile includes: * High-quality photos * Breed and age (if known) * Personality traits and temperament * Any special needs or requirements Adoption Process Learn about our simple adoption process and what you need to bring your new pet home. We are committed to making sure every adoption is a great match for both the animal and the family.
Governor Morrisey Announces $258,788 to Strengthen West Virginia State Police Forensic Lab
Governor Morrisey Announces $258,788 to Strengthen West Virginia State Police Forensic Lab September 29, 2026 CHARLESTON, W.Va. - Governor Patrick Morrisey today announced $258,788 in funding to the West Virginia State Police to strengthen forensic science services and support the continued training of forensic analysts. “West Virginia law enforcement needs the training and tools to do its job effectively and keep our communities safe,” said Governor Morrisey. “This investment will strengthen the State Police Forensic Lab and help ensure our forensic analysts have the resources they need to support investigations across the state.” The funding, awarded through the Paul Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement Program, will support specialized training and certification for forensic analysts as well as the purchase of laboratory equipment. The grant is administered by the Justice and Community Services Section of the West Virginia Division of Administrative Services. Office of the Governor State Capitol 1900 Kanawha Blvd. E Charleston, WV 25305 United States Ph 304.558.2000 or 1.888.438.2731 Fx 304.558.3588 Write Us a Message Schedule a Meeting or Event Get in Touch Privacy, Security and Accessibility | WV.gov | USA.gov | © 2026 State of West Virginia
Doddridge County Farmers Market Opens Weekly on Saturdays
Support your local farmers and artisans at the Doddridge County Farmers Market! Open every Saturday, rain or shine. Find the freshest seasonal produce, delicious baked goods, handmade crafts, and more. A wonderful way to connect with your community and enjoy local flavor.
Doddridge County Library Announces Upcoming Events
Visit the Doddridge County Public Library for exciting programs and events! We offer engaging story times for children, thought-provoking book clubs for adults, and various workshops throughout the year. Our goal is to foster a love of reading and provide valuable community resources. See our calendar for the latest schedule.
Doddridge County Commissioners to Hold Regular Meeting
The Doddridge County Board of County Commissioners meets regularly to conduct county business. All meetings are open to the public. Please refer to the official county calendar for specific dates, times, and locations. Agendas will be posted in advance.
Doddridge County 4-H Invites Youth to Join Programs
Doddridge County 4-H offers a wide range of opportunities for youth to learn, grow, and have fun! From livestock projects to public speaking and community service, there's something for everyone. Check our calendar for upcoming meetings, workshops, and events. Join us to build skills and make lifelong friends!
Governor Morrisey Celebrates 84th Preston County Buckwheat Festival
KINGWOOD, W.Va. - Governor Patrick Morrisey today joined residents and visitors in Kingwood for the 84th Preston County Buckwheat Festival, where he celebrated nearly nine decades of agriculture, community and tradition in Preston County. Watch Governor Morrisey’s remarks here. “The Buckwheat Festival is a great West Virginia tradition because it brings generations of families together and reminds us where we came from,” said Governor Morrisey. “What started as a homecoming organized by volunteer firefighters nearly 90 years ago now brings tens of thousands of people to Kingwood every year. That says a lot about Preston County and the people who have worked generation after generation to keep this tradition going.” The Preston County Buckwheat Festival was first held in 1938 after members of the Kingwood Volunteer Fire Department proposed a homecoming celebration marking the autumn buckwheat harvest. Firefighters and civic organizations from across the county organized the first festival in just six weeks. The following year, Preston County buckwheat cake experts were invited to the New York World’s Fair to prepare the county specialty as part of West Virginia Day. The festival was suspended for four years during World War II before returning and growing into the five-day celebration held today. The annual event now attracts tens of thousands of visitors for parades, livestock shows, live music, carnival rides, arts and crafts and traditional buckwheat cakes and sausage. “This festival shows what happens when West Virginians step up and work together,” Governor Morrisey said. “The Kingwood Volunteer Fire Department and hundreds of volunteers put in the work year after year, and the result is an event that strengthens this community, supports local businesses and gives people another reason to come experience West Virginia.” The Kingwood Volunteer Fire Department organizes and operates the festival with support from community volunteers. Festival proceeds help support the department’s equipment, training and emergency services. This year’s festival theme is “Back to Our Roots.” The festival comes as West Virginia continues to experience significant private-sector growth. Since October 2025, approximately $96 billion in private-sector investment and more than 19,000 projected jobs have been announced across the state.
Summer Jobs: Calhoun County Parks & Rec Hiring Seasonal Staff
Make a difference in your community this summer! Calhoun County Parks and Recreation is looking for enthusiastic individuals to fill seasonal roles. We offer flexible schedules and a fun working environment. Ideal for students or those seeking temporary employment. Apply now to be part of our vibrant summer offerings.
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