Achieving significant advancements in disaster recovery efforts, Barren County is actively pursuing federal funds to improve infrastructure beyond its previous state. Garland Gilliam, the deputy judge-executive of Barren County, has expressed optimism regarding negotiations with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). These discussions focus on securing mitigation funds, which are designed to rebuild areas more resiliently than before a disaster struck. Unlike public assistance, which restores conditions to their pre-disaster state, mitigation funding aims to enhance structures for long-term durability.
Gilliam emphasized that the objective of this initiative is not merely restoration but transformation. By investing in superior materials and designs, the county hopes to prevent future damages caused by similar disasters. He explained that while FEMA could fully reimburse the cost of rebuilding Ritters Mill as it was prior to the disaster, such an approach would leave the area vulnerable again. Instead, the county is advocating for improvements that will withstand future challenges. Despite the complexities involved in obtaining federal funds, Gilliam remains confident that progress is being made, noting that engineering firms are currently drafting plans for submission to FEMA.
In addition to Ritters Mill, Gilliam is also seeking mitigation funding for Glover Road, where multiple low-water crossings and a bridge require attention. Once FEMA confirms the allocation amounts, he intends to share the details promptly. This pursuit reflects a commitment to enhancing safety and resilience within the community. The endeavor underscores the importance of proactive planning and investment in infrastructure that can endure environmental challenges, ensuring a safer and more secure future for all residents.
In the heart of West Virginia, a groundbreaking initiative has been unveiled to support the educational aspirations of its young residents. Larry Pack, the State Treasurer of West Virginia, has initiated a sweepstakes called "Fund the Future" through the SMART529 college savings program. This contest will grant one fortunate child from the state a substantial sum of $15,000, which will be directly deposited into a SMART529 account. The goal is to promote the importance of saving for higher education and encourage families to invest in their children's futures.
This statewide sweepstakes aims to inspire and empower families across West Virginia by offering them an opportunity to enhance their children's educational prospects. Eligibility criteria require that entries must be submitted by a parent or legal guardian, with the child being 17 years old or younger. Both the child and the adult entering on their behalf must reside within the state. Each eligible child is allowed only one entry, but multiple children in a household can participate individually.
The deadline for submissions is set for Friday, May 16. Families interested in participating are encouraged to visit the official website at www.wvtreasury.gov/fundthefuture to complete their entry forms. SMART529, recognized as one of the premier college savings plans in the nation by SavingForCollege.com, offers tax-advantaged savings options designed to assist families in covering various educational expenses.
These funds can be utilized not only for traditional four-year and two-year colleges but also for accredited vocational and trade schools, as well as advanced graduate and doctoral programs. Administered by Hartford Funds and overseen by the Board of Trustees of the West Virginia College and Jumpstart Savings Programs, SMART529 provides comprehensive resources and investment opportunities. For more detailed information, individuals can explore the full range of options available at www.SMART529.com.
Treasurer Pack expressed his enthusiasm for launching this initiative in Charleston, emphasizing the significance of educating pre-K students about the value of saving for higher education. By engaging families and encouraging participation, the Fund the Future sweepstakes seeks to instill a sense of hope and ambition among West Virginia's youth while reinforcing the idea that investing in education is crucial for community development.
A significant shift is occurring in the digital payment landscape as users of the standalone Zelle app prepare for its discontinuation. While this change might initially raise concerns, it primarily affects only those who rely on the separate application. For individuals whose banks integrate Zelle within their mobile banking platforms or websites, the service remains fully accessible and operational.
The decision to discontinue the standalone app stems from a strategic evolution in how people utilize Zelle. Since its launch in 2017, the number of financial institutions offering Zelle services has skyrocketed to over 2,200, with less than 2% of transactions originating from the independent app. This transition aligns with user preferences shifting towards integrated banking solutions. Furthermore, despite past legal scrutiny regarding consumer protection, Zelle continues to enhance its security measures, ensuring safer transactions through partnered financial entities.
As the standalone app becomes obsolete, numerous alternative methods remain available for seamless digital transactions. Users can opt for well-established platforms like Venmo, PayPal, Apple Wallet, or Cash App. Regardless of the chosen method, exercising caution against potential scams remains crucial. It is advisable to verify the legitimacy of recipients and be vigilant about suspicious communications or offers that seem too good to be true. By fostering awareness and adopting secure practices, users can confidently navigate the evolving world of digital finance.