The 2024 Parkersburg Homecoming kicked off with a bang as people gathered at Point Park to join in the annual celebration. The event started with a musical performance on the mainstage in the Riverfront Park Amphitheatre featuring Jack and Davis Reid at 6:30 p.m. Festival goers were treated to a lively and entertaining show that set the tone for the weekend ahead.
As the festivities continued, attendees had the opportunity to explore a variety of activities and attractions throughout the park. From food vendors offering delicious treats to carnival rides and games for all ages, there was something for everyone to enjoy. The atmosphere was filled with excitement and joy as families and friends came together to celebrate the spirit of Parkersburg.
In addition to the entertainment and fun, the Homecoming also provided a platform for local businesses and organizations to showcase their products and services. Booths lined the park, offering a diverse array of goods and information for visitors to peruse. It was a great opportunity for the community to come together and support local entrepreneurs and initiatives.
Meanwhile, in Charleston, there was talk of tax breaks and rebates for childcare services in West Virginia. However, there was a noticeable silence from Gov. Jim Justice and human services officials on actions the state could take to address an impending funding shortfall for child care. This raised concerns among advocates and stakeholders about the future of childcare services in the state and the impact it could have on families and children.
On a more positive note, Gov. Jim Justice announced that West Virginians would see a 4% drop in their personal income taxes in the new year. This reduction was triggered by state revenues meeting the necessary threshold and was set to take effect on January 1. The news was welcomed by residents as it would provide some relief and financial benefit to individuals and families across the state.
Back in Parkersburg, the Municipal Planning Commission approved an amendment to the city’s zoning code that prohibited the use of generators as the primary source of electricity, except in cases of temporary power loss. This change aimed to ensure safety and compliance with regulations while addressing potential issues related to power generation in residential areas.
In Waterford, the 65th annual Waterford Community Fair was in full swing, offering a range of activities including a parade, rides, and entertainment for attendees to enjoy. Despite the heat, a crowd gathered to watch the parade on State Route 339, showcasing the community spirit and pride that the fair brought to the town.
Lastly, the Vienna Utility Board met to discuss past and upcoming utility projects, including water quality testing and upgrades to the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition system. These discussions highlighted the board’s commitment to ensuring the efficient and reliable delivery of essential services to the residents of Vienna.
Overall, the events and developments in Parkersburg and across West Virginia showcased the diversity and vibrancy of the communities in the state. From festive celebrations to important policy decisions, there was a mix of entertainment, information, and progress that reflected the dynamic nature of life in the region. The 2024 Parkersburg Homecoming and other local events served as a reminder of the strong sense of community and camaraderie that defines West Virginia.