On behalf of the Meadow River Valley Association (MRVA) and the Greenbrier Valley Economic Development Corporation, we are excited to announce the hiring of Dara Vance, who will fill the West Virginia Hub sponsored VISTA position. Dara has extensive experience in education, development and recruiting.
She is a graduate of the University of South Florida with three master’s degrees relating to education. We’re looking forward to having her join the Meadow River Valley team and use her expertise to drive community and economic development. Vance’s anticipated start date is Monday, Feb. 16. If you have an opportunity to meet her, please welcome her on board.
In other news, the former Rupert Elementary School gym is now under the direction of the West End Youth Sports League. This is a new nonprofit organization committed to our Meadow River Valley youth and making indoor fitness space available for all ages.
According to Jeremy Tincher, one of the organization’s board members, it started as a way to give the Western Greenbrier Wrestling team a reliable place to practice. It has grown into a home for the team as well as other youth wrestlers. There is also a batting cage in the gym for local baseball teams. And the LZ Rainelle Line Dance group uses it to practice their moves.
Grant money was secured to upgrade the heating system and separate the water lines from the main building of the former school. The gym floor will be refinished following wrestling season. Future upgrades include a drop ceiling and new lighting, a wellness room with weights and exercise equipment, and supplemental heat for the restrooms.
While grants are currently being written to fund the planned projects, anyone wishing to contribute, volunteer or use the space, can contact Jeremy Tincher by email – jrtwrestle@yahoo.com. Although the organization is focused on youth, the gym is open to any age group that wants a place for physical activity.