West Virginia State Session Press Release

​WV STATE CONVENTION PRESS RELEASE
The 131st annual session of the West Virginia State Council Junior Order United American Mechanics was held August 8-10, 2019 at the quaint Country Inn in Berkeley Springs, West Virginia.  National Councilor Rich Beppler and his wife Maryann – from Pennsylvania – were attending and taking active roles during the session.
On Thursday morning, a beautiful day awaited those playing in a golf tournament held at the Woods Golf Course.  In the afternoon, a ‘CORN HOLE’ competition was enjoyed in Berkeley Springs Park.  In the evening, opening ceremonies were held at the Inn, emceed by Past State Councilor Mike Roberts.  A welcome address was given by Corp. Samuel R. Smith of the WV State Police.  Interestingly, he included personal stories in relating his faith, his family, and his years in uniform.  State Councilor Gary Vance – St. Albans #123 – introduced the state and national officers.  Past National Councilor Greg Frye presented golf awards.
Pete Gordon entertained the group with his singing and guitar playing.  Most of his selections were from the 1930’s – 1980’s era and he encouraged all to sing along.  He provided the history of some of the ‘oldies’ music and shared stories of his past musical presentations.
A delicious buffet reception was enjoyed by all as the evening festivities came to a close.
 
 
 
 
On Friday morning, State Chaplain, B.J. Ruppenthal conducted a memorial service for the deceased members of the local councils in the past year.  A carnation for each one was laid on the altar in their memory; Joan Myers provided music.
The business session opened with State Councilor Gary Vance presiding.  Past State Councilor Dan Collis gave a keynote address to ‘spark’ those in attendance to ‘be their best’.  Resolutions were presented for consideration and officers were nominated for the ensuing year.
A Fellowship Banquet was held in the Garden Room of the Inn, with Dick Myers as toastmaster.  The speaker for the evening was Daryl Cowles, representing the 58th District-WV House of Delegates.  He explained that West Virginia is in ‘transition’ and shared statistics and evidence to support his claims.  He reported that a great amount of money has been appropriated for various projects throughout the state, including the many improvements to nearby Cacapon State Park.
A buffet dinner was enjoyed by all.  Afterward, Virgil Ruppenthal - Swingin Virg – shared his DJ talents by playing tunes that all could sing or dance to.  Throughout the evening, Chinese Auction numbers were drawn for merchandise as well as door prize tickets.  National Councilor Rich Beppler conducted a 50/50 raffle, with all proceeds going to support the National Bowling Tournament in Parkersburg, WV.
 
 
 
 
On Saturday morning the business was finalized.  The election of officers was completed and Nat’l Councilor Rich Beppler performed the installation.  The officers for 2019-2020 are:
Gary Vance #123 – Past State Councilor
David Kendig #117 – State Councilor
John Mason #117 – State Vice Councilor
Joyce Everett #117 – State Secretary
Jerry Frye #15 – State Treasurer
Dan Collis #15 – State Chaplain
Dick Myers #117 – State Conductor
Jennifer Dailey #117 – State Warden
David Bailey #15 – State Inside Sentinel
David Dolan #182 – State Outside Sentinel
          Nat’l Reps.
Chuck Petro #182 – 4 yr term
John Ditto #117 – 4 yr term
Jerry Frye #15 – 2 yr term
 
The 2020 State Convention will be held July 16-18 in District 1 – TBA.