Mayor of Summersville, Robert L. Shafer delivering his podium speech during Konferencja West Virginia 2025
- Interview with Mayor of Summersville Robert L.Shafer
- Mr. Mayor, what is so good about West Virginia that people would like to live here ? West Virginia is commonly known as the Mountain State and is rich in scenic beauty with its mountains, lakes, and outdoor activities. Summersville is truly a gem in the heart of West Virginia. We are incredibly blessed with natural beauty, meaningful experiences, and a community grounded in strong values. We’re surrounded by stunning mountain views and offer world-class rock climbing, canoeing, and Summersville Lake—the largest body of water in the state. It’s a place where people can truly connect with nature and one another. But what really sets us apart is the spirit of our people. We value our freedom, our flag, our military, and our law enforcement. There’s a deep sense of pride here—a commitment to the American dream, lived out every day in Summersville.
- I know,you’re very busy, but do you know that there is an international event going on here ? I certainly do, and I must say—being part of an international event like this has been a moving and unforgettable experience for me. Learning about Conference West Virginia 2025 has opened my eyes in so many ways, and I’m eager to continue learning even more. As an individual and as a representative of our city, I want to say clearly: we stand for democracy and freedom, not just here at home, but everywhere in the world. Imagine what a better, more peaceful place this world could be if all shared and honored those ideals. I’ve had the chance to learn just a little about Poland’s remarkable history, and I have to say—it’s both humbling and inspiring. We deeply admire the courage and determination your people showed in the pursuit of freedom. It’s a true honor to welcome the distinguished guests you've brought together here—people who carry with them the strength, pride, and deep love for their homeland. It’s an honor to have you all here, and I can’t thank you enough for choosing our city. You've been warmly welcomed this year, and that welcome is always open— whether you return for official business or simply to visit and enjoy our community.
- Everybody attending this conference is talking about your proclamation. What is it ? A proclamation, from the office of the mayor, is a way I can recognize something truly meaningful—and that’s exactly what I wanted to do for your conference. I issued a proclamation to officially designate your visit and this gathering as a special event for the City of Summersville. It’s more than just a formality; it’s a way to express, on behalf of our city and our citizens, how deeply honored we are to host you.It echoes what I mentioned earlier—the rich history of your nation, the enduring alliance between America and Poland, and our full support for you and the meaningful purpose of your conference.
- Hopefully, we are not disturbing life in Summersville. Would it be O.K. to consider 2026 ? Absolutely — I’d have a document ready for you to sign today if it meant you were coming back! And I have to smile when you say you might “disturb our community,” because the truth is, our community is about you. It’s not just made up of those who live here—it’s shaped and enriched by those who visit, who bring their stories, their cultures, and their hearts to Summersville. As I said when I first welcomed you, our home is your home. We’re proud to have a few members of the Polish community living here, and we open our doors to anyone and everyone who wants to be part of our city. This is a community built on kindness, openness, and respect. Here in Summersville, I believe we can agree or disagree—but we do so with civility, with understanding, and with friendship. That’s who we are. And I want you to know, you’ll always have a place here—any time you choose to return. Thank you and God bless the entire conference.
- Published in Gwiazda Polarna July 12, 2025