By Betty Gandee

A local boy was Speaker of the House for a day. Gavin Nichols attends West Virginia State University and took part in the mock legislature at the state’s capital on April 26, 2018. The groups day started at 8:45 a.m., and was a major learning experience.

After meeting with speaker Tim Armstead, the mock session began. This was Gavin’s chance to show the leadership skills he has been learning. The group had a meeting with Mr. Armstead following the mock session where several things were discussed. The main points addressed included how he came to the decision to not run for election again. He also touched base on the flood that struck Clay and Kanawha county in June 2016. Armstead, being from Clendenin, is passionate about the relief efforts in these areas and the future rebuilding. The group had the privilege of enjoying lunch with a legislator and finished their day by touring the capitals cultural center.

Gavin says that he took a lot away from this opportunity. A lot was learned about Speaker Armstead, like how he was the minority leader and his goals previously were to block or stop legislature from happening, but when Republicans became the majority he became the speaker and roles switched to him trying to pass legislation. “I was able to speak with him about how to better connect with people as I begin my professional career and ways to make a lasting impact on people.” Gavin expresses how he believes that this was a great learning tool and that he really enjoyed the opportunity to sit on the panel and believes that it will benefit his professional resume greatly.