Three things from last week’s happenings made the cut for this Monday’s commentary. A late Sunday add on given weekend flooding rounds out the piece. So much to say – so little column space and airtime.
Juneteenth
Last week, Morrisey staffer Drew Galang announced the Governor would not grant state employees a day off for Juneteenth (June 19). The holiday is not among the twelve official state holidays codified in law. Last year, then Governor Justice chose to grant the day off – his prerogative. Governor Morrisey did not – his prerogative.
Twelve paid holidays is generous, and well above what’s typical in the private sector. Still, the reality is that many employees want the freedom to observe additional days – be it Juneteenth, Good Friday, or even their own birthday.
One solution to cut through the political wrangling? A floating holiday. One personal day off per year, to be used at the employee’s discretion for a specific holiday, part of or not part of current code. Everyone wins.
The only question: what existing designated holiday would be repurposed to make room for it? Columbus Day? Presidents Day? Surely, we can find agreement there.
No Kings
Protests across the country – and in several parts of West Virginia – have taken up a familiar message, clearly spelled out in their slogan: “No Kings.” The implication? That Donald Trump’s actions, in the eyes of critics, exceed the limits of presidential power and tread into monarchial territory. Whether that’s true is a discussion for another day.
Meanwhile, recent events in Los Angeles understandably have law enforcement on heightened alert. That is prudent. Especially considering Saturday’s events in Minnesota. But on Friday, Governor Morrisey took to social media with a message that perhaps went a bit too far.
He rightly acknowledged the public’s right to peaceful assembly. He rightly affirmed the state’s duty to uphold law and order. Credit is due him for both sentiments. But then came the crescendo: a declaration that he had directed the State Police and National Guard to “stand ready to quell any actions that cross the line…”
Ordering the State Police and Guard to prepare is sensible. But true authority doesn’t boast. It walks quietly, and with confidence. What upside is found in the last line of the post? Little to none. West Virginians know their Troopers and Guardsmen with a deep trust and know them to act faithfully and justly. They need no reminder. The downside? Accusations of escalation and other criticisms that could be otherwise avoided. Those came on social media Friday and Saturday.
No violence was reported from any West Virginia-held protests.
A Loss for West Virginia
Finally, and perhaps most noteworthy, the passing of Doug Skaff – a vibrant, successful businessman and dedicated public servant – is a profound loss. Not just for his family and friends, but even for those who may never have met him.
Doug had an X factor – a genuine ability to bring people together. He was a mediator at heart, always seeking outcomes where everyone could win. He deeply wanted that for everyone. Such a quality is rare in today’s politics.
Given West Virginia’s many challenges, someone like Skaff with his gifts should be at the center of efforts to solve them. Odds are, he would have played the role one day. He already had contributed so much at just 48.
Sadly, that greater day won’t come. A loss for this state.
As will anyone who knew Doug, I mourn his loss and will miss him.
May the Father grant his wife, sons and family peace and fond memories of the man they called husband, father, son and brother.
A Late Sunday Addendum
The loss of life from this weekend’s flooding is numbing. While property damage — extensive and emotionally painful — can be reconciled with time, the human toll strikes deepest. Yet in true West Virginia fashion, just hours after the waters rose, neighbors were already helping neighbors. Loving their neighbors as best one can. More Sunday flooding in Marion and Monongalia counties brought the same response.
That enduring quality — West Virginia against the world — always shines through, lighting the path toward recovery and, ultimately, peace.
Audio version available below.