A Warm Handshake

U.S. Senator Robert C. Byrd made an appearance in Raleigh County on October 8th for the dedication of the new Erma Byrd Center located at Beaver, WV. The educational center, which serves eight public colleges and universities, was named after Byrd's late wife. The new facility is the first building to be dedicated as part of the Public Higher Education Center which is located on a 33 acre campus near Beckley.

During Byrd's comments, he reflected on many events while encouraging our current leaders to continue to innovate and execute so West Virginia can compete in the global marketplace. Joanne Jaeger Tomblin, president of Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College, spoke on behalf of the eight presidential partners. By staying on top of technological developments, the center will produce a relevant work force an important prerequisite to economic growth, Tomblin stated. “We will serve as a catalyst to attract business and industry to the area.