In a recent government meeting, West Virginia officials celebrated a significant financial turnaround, reporting a surplus of $14.3 million above estimates for September. This marks a recovery from earlier months when the state faced a deficit of approximately $10 to $11 million. The governor expressed optimism about the state's financial trajectory, emphasizing the importance of monitoring severance collections closely.

The meeting also highlighted the launch of the West Virginia Paranormal Trail, an initiative aimed at promoting \"scream tourism.\" Secretary of Tourism Chelsea Ruby introduced the trail, which features 14 haunted locations across the state, including the Trans Allegheny Lunatic Asylum and various cryptid sightings. Visitors can check in at these sites via a dedicated website to earn prizes, tapping into a growing interest in spooky tourism.

Additionally, the governor announced the appointment of Deborah Steed as the third family court circuit judge, effective immediately, despite her official start date being in January. The meeting touched on the upcoming fall turkey season, set to begin on October 12, and the success of the Elk River Rail Explorers, which has attracted over 11,000 visitors since its launch in May.

The governor also celebrated a record-breaking catch by Kimberly Feltner, who reeled in a 50.82-inch blue catfish weighing 64.15 pounds on the Ohio River. He concluded with a reminder of the upcoming celebration on October 7, marking the anniversary of the \"Roads to Prosperity\" initiative, which he credited with revitalizing the state's economy and improving its reputation. The governor urged attendees to remember this milestone as a turning point for West Virginia.