Marlinton Mayor’s Corner

I’ve heard complaints about people having to wait for a hair appointment or for a car repair, and then there’s negative talk about RV parks setting up in the area – something new to us.

We have extra people in the county now, and what is one person’s complaint might be just the beginning of good news for local businesses.

Remember, we are talking about a two-to-three year window of opportunity. This could  begin a period of stability for local businesses.

More sales means more work and maybe more employment opportunities. It could also provide potential incentives for new business and service opportunities.

The town could see more water customers and additional sewer service hook-ups and garbage collection fees.

Convenience stores are seeing a 20% increase in sales.

Laundromats and carwashes will see more business.

It is hard to imagine that anyone can’t see the potential here.

Much has been in the news lately about immigrants being detained and families separated.

Expressions of sympathy and compassion make the rounds on social media. Everyone wants to see people treated fairly and given adequate living accommodations.

The workers and their families who are coming to our area aren’t immigrants, but they do find themselves in a strange, new place – and many are separated from their families as they travel to make a living.

I think we need to take a step back, and be the people we’re known to be – welcoming, caring, hospitable.

We have an opportunity to move beyond posting on social media, and put our words into action.

How we treat the visitor or the stranger in “our land” is a more accurate representation of who we really are.

Safe and Sound Week
August 13-19

Safe and Sound Week is an annual nationwide event to raise awareness and understanding of the value of safety and health programs.

OSHA encourages organizations or any industry of any size to show their commitment to safety of workers, customers and the public. 

Participation in safety and health programs helps reduce workplace injuries and illnesses and improves the bottom line.

Your insurance representative can help determine various education and training to fit your operation.