Last week we lost West Virginia native Hershel “Woody” Williams, a great American hero and the last surviving World War II Medal of Honor recipient. One of Woody’s last wishes was to lie in state at the U.S. Capitol, not for himself, but to represent all World War II Medal of Honor recipients.

"Woody Williams was far more than just a hero; he was the greatest of the greatest generation, and a model for future generations. Thank you, Woody, for your friendship and your lifetime of service to Veterans and Gold Star Families."

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE WOODY WILLIAMS FOUNDATION

I was proud to be recognized as a 2022 Medicare Advantage Champion for standing up for more than 27 million seniors and individuals with disabilities nationwide who rely on this critical program. Around 43% of Medicare beneficiaries in West Virginia rely on Medicare Advantage plans for their healthcare.

When I reflect on what our independence means, the rich culture of our country always shines through in my thoughts. The American spirit lies deep within all of us, and I am glad to say that spirit is alive and well in the Mountain State. On this day, we also honor our brave service members who risk their lives every day to keep us safe and protect the freedoms we all enjoy.

Mr. Roleff of New Creek contacted my office on behalf of the Mineral County Historical Society. For 2 years, they had tried to obtain a System for Award Management number that would allow them to apply for federal grants. As a result of my office's inquiry, the MCHS was issued their number within 3 weeks.

If you or someone you know is in need of assistance with a state or federal agency, please contact my office at 304-342-5855.

With the help of my staff, I was honored to lend my voice of support for several events in the region: tour of Minnie Hamilton Health System with USDA Rural Development State Director Ryan Thorn and Appalachian Regional Commission Co-Chair Gayle Manchin in Grantsville; raising the American flag and the Weirton flag at the city's 75th anniversary celebration; Eye Candy Optical Ribbon Cutting in Beckley; ribbon cutting and grand opening of Elite Roofing and Construction in Crab Orchard.

Bridge Investment Program

The Bridge Investment Program is a competitive discretionary grant program to improve the safety, efficiency, and reliability of the movement of people and freight by replacing, rehabilitating, preserving, and protecting bridges in the National Bridge Inventory (NBI). It has a focus on improving the condition of bridges in poor condition and supporting activities to prevent bridges in fair condition from dropping to poor condition.

To find out more information and apply for funding, visit the US Department of Transportation's website.

Reaching for the Moon
2022 Katherine Johnson Graphic Art Contest

As part of 2022 West Virginia Katherine Johnson Day celebrations, the Greenbrier Historical Society in Lewisburg, West Virginia, invites students to creatively visualize Katherine Johnson’s story in the 2022 GHS “Reaching for the Moon” Graphic Art Contest. The contest is open to all children in grades 6-8 who are residents of West Virginia. The Art Contest submission period begins in May and concludes on July 15, 2022 at midnight EST.

Contest Rules and Eligibility