FEMA representatives started holding meetings with “25045 – A New Clendenin”, that were not widely publicized, in which they jointly formulated a proposal to use FEMA dollars to demolish the old Clendenin Elementary School building rendering the site a “greenspace”. However, it is widely known among citizens in the community that a non-profit organization based in Clendenin called “25045 – A New Clendenin”, has been adamant to destroy the building and convert the site into a “greenspace” and walking area. Many from the community have expressed at previous Town Council meetings and Clendenin Planning Commission meetings, and on social media, the desire to explore how the building can be re-purposed to benefit the local community and perhaps the local economy as well. Since the 2016 Flood there have been concerns from the local community about what exactly will happen to the historic Clendenin Elementary School building. Humphreys toured the building extensively to determine the extent of damage, and stated, “Its not that bad.” He sees it as the most attractive and viable option in the Elk River Community. Several locations on Elk River have been scouted according to Humphreys, but all roads lead back to one building in particular, the old Clendenin Elementary School building.

Recently he received the green light from YMCA CEO, Monty Warner to do just that. If you are interested in helping to sponsor Clendenin Homecoming Festival Teen Queen, Lauren Gorman, to compete in the Miss West Virginia Teen USA Pageant, contact Heather Roush at Humphreys, Branch Director with the YMCA of Kanawha Valley | Photo Credit: Mark BurdetteĪccording to Humphreys, following the 2016 flood, he began working and advocating for the YMCA of Kanawha Valley to expand into, and serve, the Elk River Community. She has been a wonderful representative for Clendenin and we are all so proud of her and can’t wait to see what she accomplishes in the future.” I could not think of a better person to represent our state at the Miss Teen USA pageant. Rouch stated, “Lauren is one of the most unique and amazing young women I’ve ever encountered. In addition, Gorman will be available for appearance opportunities. According to Rouch, sponsors will be listed in the official program, on the Miss Teen WV USA website as Lauren’s sponsor, and will be promoted on Gorman’s social media for the entire term of her reign. The Clendenin Homecoming Festival will be paying for her entry fee to compete however, Lauren will need to prepare for competition and will need a wardrobe as well as beauty expenses. Rouch indicated that sponsors are required for the competition. She is actively involved in Varsity Volleyball and will also be leaving next week to prepare for New York Fashion Week where she is modeling for several designers. Lauren is a scholar athlete and currently attends Roane County High School where she is a senior. If she does, she would then go on to represent at the Miss Teen USA pageant.”

According to pageant director, Heather Rouch, “This year Lauren is in a great position to take the crown. Lauren has placed in the Top 5 for the last two years at this pageant and was third runner-up last year. On October 13-14 th, 2018, Clendenin Homecoming Festival Teen Queen-Lauren Gorman will be competing in the Miss West Virginia Teen USA competition held at the Creative Arts Center Lyell B Clay Theatre at West Virginia University.

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