Two
Facilities Dedicated:
Different Functions, Similar
Missions
During the last several days at WVU Jackson’s
Mill State 4-H Camp in Lewis County, two very different
dedication ceremonies underscored the same theme—WVU
Extension’s commitment to serve the people of
West Virginia.
 Mount Vernon Dining Hall was re-dedicated on Wednesday,
June 18, during Older Members’ Conference. Less
than a week later and about two miles down the road
from the beloved dining hall, a new page entered the
Mill’s history book with the dedication of the
West Virginia University Extension State Fire Training
Academy.
A comfortable, sunny morning welcomed more than 300
OMC campers and dedication guests to the ribbon-cutting
ceremony, which was the official opening for the new
dining hall and the unveiling of the suites and conference
room on the second floor. Donor recognition, songs,
and tours were part program.
Dave Miller, associate provost for WVU Extension and
Public Service, thanked “true friends who have
given more than money.”
“Many have given time, sweat, hearts, and souls,” Miller
said. “What we’re seeing today is
a testament to what cooperation between the state legislature,
WVU, and private donors can do.”
Provost Gerald Lang echoed Miller’s appreciation
for that cooperation. He also echoed Miller’s
reminder that such cooperation must continue for 4-H
and the Mill to fulfill their mission for the people
of West Virginia.
 That theme was heard again Tuesday, June 24, during
the dedication of the WVU State Fire Training Academy.
Dave Miller led the ribbon-cutting, which was applauded
by representatives from the State Fire Commission,
State Fire Marshal’s Office, Lewis County Chamber
of Commerce, West Virginia American Water, WVU officials,
volunteer and professional firefighters, first-responder
groups, and local and state elected officials’ offices.
Representing West Virginia youths were the second
class of the West Virginia Junior Firefighter Camp.
Their sessions this week marked the opening of the
academy’s educational programs. The camp prepares
teens for long-term roles in emergency services.
Other classes—for all ages—will follow
at the new facility.
One firefighter said it differently: “We
now have a home.”
“It is our goal that West Virginia’s paid
and volunteer firefighters and first-responders receive
the most up-to-date training—using the most sophisticated
props, techniques and equipment,”explained Steve
Bonanno, program director of WVU Extension’s
Community, Economic, and Workforce Development unit.
“WVU Extension is proud to be able to continue
our tradition of excellence in training,” he
said,” and we thank you for your support.”
After the ceremony, more than 100 guests toured the
$6.3 million facility and joined the 50 junior firefighters
for lunch in the bay training wing. After lunch, the
trainees demonstrated their fast-paced personal equipment
drills.
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