By Jack Houvouras
HQ 109 | SPRING 2020
The COVID-19 epidemic has had a profound impact on the world and changed the way we all lead our lives. The ramifications of the novel virus have even affected the production of this magazine. Due to the new rules of social distancing, we were forced to postpone a couple of articles we had planned for this edition. As such, I chose to replace them with a photo essay on “The 25 Greatest Photos of West Virginia.” That decision turned out far better than I could have imagined, as it reminded me of what a beautiful state we live in, and lifted my cabin-fevered spirits.
Selecting the 25 greatest photographs of West Virginia was no easy task. With so many amazing images out there that capture the natural beauty of the state, I quickly realized how daunting this endeavor would be. But, stuck in my home with not much else to do, I welcomed the job of sifting through hundreds of photos.
Next, I weeded my selections down to the top 50 and invited the magazine staff to vote for their favorites. Our criteria were simple — pick the most beautiful photographs that represent the natural beauty of the Mountain State regardless of location or subject matter. The result is the photo essay you will find on page 44. From breathtaking mountain vistas to serene valley floors, from gushing waterfalls to picturesque farms, from the vibrant colors of fall to awe-inspiring sunsets, you will find it all.
Examining these splendid images reminded me of some adventures I’ve enjoyed in West Virginia over the years. Some of my favorites include fly fishing on the Cheat River, skiing at Snowshoe, hiking along the Cranberry River, zip lining in Fayetteville, cruising the Highland Scenic Highway, whitewater rafting down the New River and golfing at some of the state’s magnificent courses.
We are all very fortunate to live in such a wild and wonderful state.
All of this leads me to assert that while West Virginia may not be the most beautiful state in the lower 48, I would certainly rank it in the top five. A few states out west may edge us out, but the Mountain State certainly deserves to be in the discussion.
Finally, this last-minute work assignment had one other unexpected benefit — it imbued in me a renewed sense of pride in the place I choose to call home.
Ever since I left Huntington to go to college in 1983, I have been defending this great state from the cynics and the naysayers. I have always been proud of my heritage and never backed down from challenging those who would malign or disparage it. I encourage you to do the same. So, the next time one of your friends makes a crack about West Virginia, send them one of the 25 photos from this edition. Then tell them you live in one of the most beautiful places in America that offers nearly every outdoor adventure you can fathom. And last but not least, remind them that there is a reason singer-songwriter John Denver described West Virginia as “Almost Heaven.”
