LANSING, WV (LOOTPRESS) – U.S. Sen. Jim Justice visited New River Gorge National Park and Preserve on Wednesday, where his English bulldog, Babydog, was officially sworn in as a “Bark Ranger.”
The ceremony took place at the Canyon Rim Visitor Center, adding another title to Babydog’s growing list of public appearances alongside the former West Virginia governor.
During the visit, Justice also highlighted his Hearts of Gold Playground legislation, which recently passed the U.S. Senate. The legislation would rename a playground at the national park in honor of West Virginia children and families affected by childhood cancer.
“My buddy Babydog has traveled all over West Virginia and across this country with me. She has met so many wonderful people, and I can tell you, she sure loves getting out and exploring. But today, she has a new title to add to her résumé: Bark Ranger! I can promise you she will be ready to represent West Virginia wherever she goes,” Justice said.
“We want folks to continue to come to West Virginia, experience our incredible outdoors, and see firsthand why we call this place Almost Heaven. I hope we’ll all be back here soon to celebrate another special milestone with the Hearts of Gold Playground.”
Justice expressed hope that he would return to the park for a future celebration of the Hearts of Gold Playground.
