Dominion representative Robert Orndorff presents a $10,000 check to Watoga Foundation member Alfred Dean, Jr. in the renovated office at Watoga State Park. Pictured, l to r: Watoga State Park Superintendent Jody Spencer, Orndorff, Dean, and WSP Assistant Superintendent Josh Feather. J. Graham photo

Jaynell Graham
Editor

Things are changing at Watoga State Park, and a generous donation from Dominion to the Watoga Foundation will help keep the momentum going.

The Foundation has been working toward two goals – a water slide at the pool – which is now in place – and a putt-putt golf course to be installed near the recreation center.

Businesses and individuals have contributed to these projects during the past several months.

Thursday, Dominion Managing Director of State and Local Affairs Robert Orndorff presented a $10,000 check to Foundation member Alfred Dean, Jr. to support the “We just lack $2,000 of getting this done,” Dean said after receiving the check.

The Foundation hopes to begin the project in the fall. It could start sooner, but the group does not want to interfere with summer visitors’ activities.

“We want to thank Mr. Orndorff,” Dean said. “He’s been very helpful and this puts us nearer our goal. We look forward to getting the local community involved. The putt-putt course will give families something to do in the evenings, because the area will have lights.”

Orndorff said Dominion offers Volunteer Days for its employees.

“Once the project is started, our workers who work at Bath, but live in the Marlinton area can come to the park to help.”

As for the donation, “It is one way we can give back to the state park system, which is a jewel for West Virginia,” Orndorff said.

Jaynell Graham may be contacted at jsgraham@pocahontastimes.com

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