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Applause to everyone who did their duty in our American democracy by casting their ballot in Tuesday's West Virginia primary election. Applause as well to all the candidates who ran for office Tuesday, whether they won or lost. The only way for our country to move forward is for citizens to continue to take part in the political process. Now if we could just get MORE registered voters to come out to the polls, that would be a sign of real progress.
Applause to a Tygart Valley United Way program that helped more than 800 local households file their taxes this year The Tygart Valley United Way's Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program provided free tax services to 838 households for the 2024 filing season. The program was able to add new partner sites and serve more taxpayers, with the support of a federal IRS VITA grant. The sites served West Virginians from across 11 counties throughout the North-Central region. The program is offered annually from January through Tax Day to assist families and individuals with low to moderate incomes prepare their tax returns for free. With no cost to clients, households could save an average of $350 in tax preparation fees, amounting to over $293,000 saved.
Applause to the news that officials hope construction on the planned $11.6 million new Event and Conference Center in downtown Elkins will begin this fall. Randolph County Development Authority director Robbie Morris said once a bid is accepted, construction on the new 28,000-square-feet, $11.6 million structure will begin soon after. The Event and Conference Center will be constructed in proximity to the Elkins Railyard Depot, behind the current Rotary Amphitheater.
Applause to the latest chapter in a six-part program billed as "Elkins-Randolph Together: A Community Conversation." The most recent event was one of six gatherings scheduled through the month of November and was sponsored by Valentine Assisted Living. The latest session focused on transportation in Randolph County, moderated by moderator Elkins City Council member Dave Parker. Laura Ward, executive director of the Randolph County Senior Center and Country Roads Transit, was part of the panel invited to attend. William Robinson and Neal Vance, who both work for the West Virginia Department of Transportation, were also part of the sessions panel. The next session will be in July and will focus on education. The Elkins-Randolph County Chamber, Elkins Main Street and Randolph County Development Authority hosted the meeting.