Held in previous years as the Bluefield Coal Rally, the event is sponsored by the Greater Bluefield Chamber of Commerce as well as West Virginia Coal Association, Kentucky Coal Association, Virginia Coal Association, Kanawha Valley Mining Institute, Pocahontas Coal Association, and Tug Valley Mining Institute.

 

With so much of the 22-year-old annual event steeped in tradition, Bluefield Chamber executive vice-president Debbie Maynard told International Longwall News there is a new addition. “This is the first [year] for booths, which will focus on safety and safety products.”

 

Over the three days’ sessions, presenters from all sides of the coal industry will take the stage to share ideas on not only safety, but also legislation, training and technology. A total of three sessions, each with several speakers planned, have been outlined for the event.

 

Featured during the symposium will be a dinner speaker, West Virginia Governor Joe Manchin, as well as a keynote presentation by Don Blankenship of Massey Energy on “The Gravity of Coal”

 

Thursday’s itinerary is highlighted by presentations by representatives of Consol Energy, MSHA and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, while speakers on Friday include spokespeople from the National Mining Association, WVCA, Marshall Miller and Associates and others.

 

“We get great support from all the coal associations who participate,” Maynard said.

 

For more information on the symposium, visit www.bluefieldchamber.com or contact the Greater Bluefield Chamber of Commerce at (304) 327-7184. Registration forms are available online.