10:06am: Talkline with Hoppy Kercheval

White Sulphur Springs remembers flood victims

WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS, W.Va. — Rocks from Howards Creek make up the memorial walls to honor the eight White Sulphur Springs residents who lost their lives in the June 23, 2016 flood.

The memorial was dedicated Friday afternoon in Old Mill Park to mark the one-year anniversary of the flood.

“They were fathers and mothers, sons and daughters, sisters and brothers, friends and neighbors and their loss will always be with us. They will never be forgotten,” Celebration of Life and Rebirth of White Sulphur Springs Committee member Cathy Rennard told the large crowd gathered for the dedication.

The names of the eight victims are on marble plaquests inserted into the two creek rock walks on either side of a sidewalk. The names of all 23 2016 West Virginia flood victims were read during the ceremony.

Greenbrier East High School student Cameron Zobrist, 17, took on the project for his Eagle Scout badge. He called it a total team effort.

“This memorial also signifies how White Sulphur Springs and its many neighbors pulled together–all contributing to its healing over the last year,” Zobrist said.

White Sulphur Springs Council member Audrey VanBuren said the last year has produced a great spirit that should continue.

“On that day and in the days following we all chose to be loving, kind, forgiving, neighbors loving neighbors, friends. We need to carry that in our hearts every day. We need to carry that into the future,” VanBuren said.

Gov. Jim Justice agreed.

“Thank you for your hope. Thank you for passion and thank you for your love,” Justice said.

U.S. Senator Joe Manchin was also on hand for the ceremony.

White Sulphur Springs residents also cut the ribbon Friday on Nicely Park and the Brad Paisely Community Park.