PRESS RELEASE WV STATE SESSION

PRESS RELEASE The 128th annual convention of the West Virginia Junior Order United American Mechanics (Jr. O.U.A.M.) was held July 21-23, 2016 at the Comfort Inn Suites in Mineral Wells, WV.
The convention opened Thursday evening with a reception, hosted by State Councilor John Ditto. State and National officers were introduced, a time of fellowship and refreshments were shared by all
Bill Hess and Kevin Evans shared their instrumental and musical talents with the group by preforming praise and uplifting music. An enjoyable time was had by all.
Prior to the opening of the business session on Friday morning, a memorial service was conducted to recognize and honor those deceased members from the past year. State Chaplain B.J. Ruppenthal gave the memorial address and a song was provided by the Frye Family. The deceased members were honored by the lying of red and white carnations across the Bible.
After the opening of the business session, Past National Councilor Greg Frye delivered the keynote address, focusing the members’ attention to V-I-R-T-U-E. The business of the convention was then conducted. Thirteen proposals for resolution were presented and voted on. Nominations for officers were received. In attendance, representing the National Council, was Past National Councilor Roger Sullivan, from Kentucky. He addressed the members concerning the erosion of the United States Constitution. The business session recessed at 3:30 pm.
A fellowship banquet was held at 6:00 pm. The master of ceremonies, Past State Councilor Chuck Petro introduce the national officers in attendance and a fine meal was enjoyed by all. The members enjoyed music provided by DJ Phil Chapman, who played and sang a variety of oldies music. Door prizes were awarded and a Chinese auction was held.
The business session was reconvened on Saturday morning. Officers were duly elected and were installed by Past National Councilor Roger Sullivan. The State Council officers for 2016- 2017 are: Past State Councilor John Ditto; State Councilor Dale Dailey; State Vice Councilor Gary Vance ;State Secretary Joyce Everett; State Treasure Jerry Frye; State Chaplain B.J. Ruppenthal; State Conductor Barbara Hewett; State Warden Virgil Ruppenthal; State Inside Sentinel Pat Masco; State Outside Sentinal Jennifer Dailey;.
​ The 2017 State Convention will be held July 20-22 in Martinsburg, WV