RIBBON-CUTTING HELD — Community members and representatives of the Weirton Area Chamber of Commerce and C.H.A.N.G.E. Inc. gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony and open house to celebrate the opening of the new Women’s Health Center at Weirton Medical Center. Taking part were, from left, front: John Newbrough; Betty Jo Welch; Michelle McElfresh, medical assistant for Dr. Manuel Ballas; Dr. Manuel Ballas; Judy Raveaux, chief executive officer for C.H.A.N.G.E. Inc.; Dr. Kara O’Karma; JoAnn Snodgrass; Julie Alatis, Weirton Chamber of Commerce programs coordinator; and Sarah Pulice; and back, Jim Boniey, chief operations officer for C.H.A.N.G.E. Inc.; the Rev. Gary Lilly, Weirton Councilman Fred Marsh; Amber Nest, Weirton Chamber of Commerce office manager; and Joe Stankiewicz. -- Angelina Dickson

WEIRTON — C.H.A.N.G.E Inc. held a ribbon-cutting ceremony and open house to celebrate the official opening of Family Medical Care’s new Women’s Health Center, a facility aimed at providing affordable medical care, regardless of one’s level of health coverage. Officials from C.H.A.N.G.E. Inc. offered refreshments and a tour so visitors could see the nine exam rooms, the procedures room, blood draw lab, ultrasound room and non-stress test room for expecting mothers. Physicians practicing at the Women’s Health Center are Dr. Manuel Ballas, Dr. Kara O’Karma and Dr. Cynthia Gray. Judy Raveaux, chief executive officer of C.H.A.N.G.E. Inc., said the health center’s staff understands the high cost of quality health care today, and the inability of some in the community to afford that care without insurance. Raveaux said in light of that need, C.H.A.N.G.E. Inc. increased its spectrum of medical care to include the Women’s Health Care Center at 651 Colliers Way Suite 401.