April 25, 2025
In celebration of Earth Day 2025, neighbors across Clay County united once again for the 2nd Annual “Make Clay County Shine” Highway Clean-Up Days, a grassroots initiative focused on beautifying local roads and strengthening community bonds through shared action.
Front row (left to right): Travis Farrell, Eric Thomas, Adam Landers, Walter Hatfield, Gracie Johnson, Morgan Payton, and Travis Tatalovich.
Back row (left to right): Brody Keen, Landon Williams, Ethan Nottingham, Mason Sears, Braden Black, Landon Elliott, Cory McKinney, and Joshua Walker.
The Civil-Military Innovation Institute (CMI2) proudly participated in the event, with 17 dedicated volunteers from our Adaptive Experimentation Facility at Fort Andrew in Lizemores, WV, to clean up sections of Route 4, Route 36, and Route 16. The collective effort contributed to a larger community movement committed to making Clay County a cleaner, more welcoming place to live and work.
“Community engagement isn’t just about showing up; it’s about showing up with purpose,” said Walter “Wally” Hatfield, CMI2 Vice President for Training and Experimentation. “Events like ‘Make Clay County Shine’ strengthen our shared commitment to improving Clay County for everyone. We’re honored to be part of it.”
This year’s clean-up included a strong coalition of local leaders, businesses, and public offices working together to make a difference. CMI2 extends deep thanks to the many partners who made the event possible, including:
- Clay County Commission
- Clay County Assessor
- Mayor Jason Hubbard & the Town of Clay
- Clay County Board of Education
- Clay County Health Department
- Clay Family Support Center
- Legacy Foods
- Clay County Bank
- Clay County Solid Waste Authority
- West Virginia Department of Highways – Clay County
Special recognition goes to Clay County Assessor Teresa Davis for her leadership and coordination in driving this event forward.
“We know we are the company we keep,” added Hatfield. “Thanks to every volunteer, sponsor, and supporter, especially Teresa Davis, we’re proving that even small actions, like highway clean-up, can create long-lasting, positive change in our communities.”
Photo Gallery
