Mountain State policymakers know they can't stick with the way things have always been if they want to reverse significant population loss and move forward. But step two is to look for innovative ideas such as Ascend West Virginia. The program is working on recruiting its second round; and has inspired First Ascent, designed to keep West Virginia college graduates from leaving the state; Teachers Ascend, to recruit classroom teachers; and Ascend Heroes to attract military veterans. Lawmakers, cabinet secretaries, the governor ... elected officials at all levels, across our state, MUST learn the lessons of Ascend. Knowing they are supported financially, they can ignore the noise, and West Virginia is more than enough.