MAXWELTON, W.Va. (WVDN) – The Greenbrier Valley Economic Development Corporation (GVEDC) recognized regional leaders and organizations making a significant impact on the Greenbrier Valley economy during its Annual Dinner on Thursday, June 25, 2026. The Greenbrier Valley Impact Awards recognize achievement, investment, innovation, and ongoing efforts to strengthen the economy of the Greenbrier Valley.
Executive Director Ruthana Beezley presented the inaugural awards during the evening’s program, recognizing recipients for their contributions to the region.
Greenbrier Valley Collaborative Impact Award:
John Tuggle, Region IV Planning and Development Council
This award recognizes a regional partner whose collaboration and commitment help advance economic development efforts throughout the Greenbrier Valley.
John Tuggle, a Monroe County native, has been working with communities on countless infrastructure projects for his entire career. An engineer by training, John has led the Region IV planning and Development Council for 13 years. He leads without expectation of credit, which he usually gives the towns, communities, and organizations, as well as his amazing team, that are in the trenches doing the hard work. The PDC’s annual report reflects 118 active projects with more than $513 million in funding. John is retiring this year, and we, along with the entire region, are grateful for his work.
Greenbrier Valley Economic Impact Award:
Almost Heaven Saunas by Harvia
This award recognizes the economic contributions to the region in investment, employment, and innovation.
This year’s awardee began business in Renick almost 50 years ago. Since 1977 ownership has changed and product lines have shifted, but this company has remained a strong asset to Greenbrier Valley. After the move to Lewisburg, our BRE (Business, Retention & Expansion) visit notes show the company had around 50
employees. Today that number is 160 and climbing. These are good jobs, with benefits and most importantly a culture that wants to see employees succeed. Production has increased to three product lines, and a three-shift operation for 24 hours a day, 5 days a week. Their new $5 million expansion is a testament to their commitment to our region.
Jonna Mullins, HR Manager was one of the Almost Heaven employees who spoke in acceptance of the award:
“Economic impact is never the result of one person’s effort. It’s built through collaboration-between businesses, community leaders, educators, and organizations like GVEDC that work tirelessly to create opportunity and momentum in our region.
We’re fortunate to be part of a community that understands the importance of investing in people. Whether it’s developing talent, creating quality jobs, or supporting businesses as they grow, the real impact we make is measured in the lives we touch and the futures we help shape.”
The dinner hosted more than 140 people at the WVSOM Student Center in Lewisburg and featured Jim Spencer, the Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator for the U.S. Small Business Administration as its guest speaker. Spencer spoke on the many resources available through the SBA to support small businesses, entrepreneurs, lenders, and economic growth.
The event was supported by Platinum Sponsor The Bank of Monroe; Gold Sponsors Appalachian Power, Dinsmore, E.L. Robinson Engineering, First Citizens Bank, Greenbrier Environmental Group Inc., New River Community and Technical College, Pendleton Community Bank, Peoples Bank, Snowshoe Mountain Resort, Thompson and Litton, and West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine; and Silver Sponsors Citynet, City National Bank, and Seven Rivers Design and Build.
Catering for the event was provided by Cedar Hill Creations. Awards for the event were provided by Gateway Industries. Centerpieces were provided by Leggacy Farms.
