Lede News

If there are two terms no one ever expected to follow each other in the same sentence in the Upper Ohio Valley region, the two words have to be “Jambo” and “Disco”. But here we go. There’s a Jambo Disco coming to downtown Wheeling, and the yet-to-be-named disco-themed party represents the next new event founded and presented by the same three young men – Joe Beers, Peyton Bourgeois, and Nic Provenzano – who pulled off the Jamboree City Music Fest on June 20th. “Do you remember?” asked Provenzano while a guest on River Talk’s “Novotney Now” afternoon radio program. “That one song (September) by Earth Wind & Fire? It starts with ‘Do you remember the 21st night of September?’ … And there’s a verse that goes, ‘Our hearts were ringin' in the key that our souls were singin'; as we danced in the night, remember how the stars stole the night away’.  Lane 7, the former Bridge Street in downtown, runs between the Stone Center and two properties that rest along Main Street and Market Plaza. (Image: Google Earth) “Well, that’s what we’re going to do,” he said. “But we’re going to do it on the 20th of September this year because the 21st falls on a Monday. So, we’re going to throw a disco party in the alleyway, and we’re going to have a lot of fun.” So, wait, a disco party? In downtown Wheeling? On a Sunday? When the only open businesses between 10th and 16th streets include the Panda Chinese Restaurant, the NB Café and Newbridge Church in the Capitol Theatre? “Exactly,” said Bourgeois. “Nothing's open so, if we have a little something, maybe we can start to change that mindset. Who knows? Maybe some businesses will follow suit in the future when they see people bringing people downtown on Sundays. “There are a lot of different artists from the disco era, and people still enjoy the music, that’s for sure. And know there’s been an event in the Pittsburgh area that has disco parties and the street has been packed, so I’m sure fans will enjoy it here, too,” he said. “Because disco isn’t dead, and we’re going to prove it in September 20th in downtown Wheeling.” The city of Wheeling has history with the disco era, and although not too many photos of the Palace Disco/Pirates Cove exist, the club was very popular back in the 1970s. The city’s new “Jambo Boys” may receive most of the credit of the success for the Jamboree City Fest, but they are the first to acknowledge that they needed the seven venues and 23 performers to make it all happen. The same will be true with the September event. “If you’re a person who is looking to support a new disco party in the alleyway, we’re looking for bands and people with ideas on how to make the alley a really cool place with disco-themed decorations,” Beers said. “And we’ll have a lot of other activities for the alleyway and for Market Plaza like food trucks, beer sales and other drink options, and a few other surprises. “We would love for some local artists and vendors to contact us about setting up on the plaza, and maybe there could be some live, plein air painting going on,” he said. “If other community members have ideas, we want to hear them because we’d love to fill the plaza and the alleyway with a lot of different and diverse activities.” Part of the plan for September's disco-themed event is to utilize Market Plaza as a place for food, drink, and vendors. What's In a Name? The Jamboree City Music Fest caught people's attention because of the legendary Jamboree in the Hills that took place in East Ohio for four decades, so Beers, Bourgeois, and Provenzano is searching for the perfect name for their September event Alley Disco? Palace Disco? Bridge Street Disco? “We're workshopping some names because we really don’t know what to call it,” Provenzano said. “But this is going to be our next event, and even though it’s not a big, citywide thing this time, it’s going to be shrunk down and it’s going to be a really cool atmosphere built in a place in Wheeling that people may have never been to before or haven't in a long time. Some 20-plus artists performed at seven different venues on June 20th thanks to the planning and execution by Joe, Nic, and Peyton. “That’s our main goal – to get people to Wheeling to see things that they haven't seen in a while, haven't seen before, and to just expand on how diverse and endless the possibilities are in downtown Wheeling,” he said. “If you build it, they'll come. I got a cool team beside me, and I think we can make it happen.” The alley, now known as Lane 7, was well traveled between October 1891 and mid-1962 because the Steel Bridge once carried streetcars and automobiles over the front channel of the Ohio River. “And the Steel Bridge that was next to the Wheeling Suspension Bridge that's right across the street from the Bridge Tavern,” Beers explained. “Before they built the Fort Henry Bridge, the Suspension Bridge was so busy that they built the Steel Bridge. And then they tore it down in the '60s a few years after the Fort Henry opened. Nic, Peyton, and Joe posed for this image that was featured in an "Open Letter" to the three here on LEDE News. “You can still follow the street and look out across the river by the Mull Center and see where it landed on the Wheeling Island,” he confirmed. “And there's an old piece of the bridge sitting right there next to the Mull Center for everyone to check out, and they can see the work that’s being performed on the former Kaufman’s building too.” The first business to open on Sundays in the Wheeling area, according to retired butcher Tom Dawson, was the former Cook's department store in Benwood. Bourgeois believes something of the same could happen in downtown Wheeling. “It takes people, and we picked a Sunday because somebody's got to kickstart the Sunday campaign in Wheeling,” he explained. "If it works, great, but if it only proves we can have well-attended events on Sundays in downtown Wheeling, that's fine, too. "It's about adding something new and doing something different," Bourgeois added, "Just like the Jamboree City event, and it looked like people really enjoyed that day in downtown Wheeling." Read the full article

Wheeling Police have arrested Cannon Lee Furman, 26, of Wheeling, on three counts of malicious wounding. The arrest stems from a stabbing that took place inside an apartment in the 2100 block of National Road in Elm Grove on Monday around 5 p.m. Furman was arraigned by an Ohio County magistrate today, who set bond at $150,000 and taken to the Northern Regional Jail. Read the full article

Hope Scholarship Board Disqualifies School, Places Another on Probation CHARLESTON, W.Va. – State Treasurer Larry Pack, who serves as Chairman of the Hope Scholarship Board, announced the Board has authorized the expansion of various qualifying expenses, including the ability for families to purchase lifetime digital curriculum subscriptions, as well as a Quarterly Funding Policy, an updated Military Member Service Policy, and actions against schools involved with fraud. “It is vital that we continue to provide flexibility and additional options to parents so they can best meet the needs of their children,” Treasurer Pack said following last week’s Board meeting. “West Virginia has a proud history of military service and I am honored to help extend opportunities to families that have dedicated their lives defending our freedoms.” The Board also adopted a Quarterly Funding Policy in response to legislation signed into law modifying scholarship disbursements from biannual to quarterly. The new policy will help to streamline the funding process and ensure timely payments to participating families. To receive a quarterly funding distribution in August, students must have turned in all required documentation and be in Approved status by no later than August 1. Students not meeting that criteria will have to wait until the October quarter to receive funding.  The Military Service Member Policy that was adopted in November 2024 was also updated to permit active duty military service members that are required to relocate with permanent military orders to remain eligible and participate in the Hope Scholarship Program. Additionally, the Board acted to permanently disqualify Tygart Valley Christian Academy from participation in the Hope Scholarship Program for financial misconduct.  “We want to make clear that while there is very little fraud and misconduct in the Hope Scholarship Program, we want to take swift and decisive action when our investigations warrant it,” Treasurer Pack said. Furthermore, the Board placed Laurel Academy on probation due to violations of program rules. The school will be required to come into compliance with all program requirements during the probationary period. The Treasurer’s Office continues to gather evidence and additional information regarding these ongoing investigations. For more information on the Hope Scholarship, visit www.HopeScholarshipWV.gov. Read the full article

Organizers and major sponsors of the Party on the Plaza music festival recently announced its highly anticipated lineup. The 6th annual event is scheduled for July 11th in downtown Wheeling. According to Party on the Plaza founder and Chairman Paul Smith, this year’s festival features three regional acts known for their infectious energy and high levels of crowd participation. "We built this year's lineup with the continued focus on delivering exactly what this event is known for: keeping the energy high from the first downbeat to the final encore,” Smith said. "These three powerhouse regional bands from Columbus and Pittsburgh are unmatched when it comes to getting a crowd on their feet. It’s an immersive, all-day party experience that people won't want to miss." The festival is co-headlined by award-winning Columbus party bands, The Martini Affair and Shucking Bubba, with special guest, Pittsburgh 80s cover band, Ridgemont High. The Martini Affair has been recognized by The Knot and 614 Magazine, described as an explosive dance party band that entertains and engages audiences throughout the Midwest with radio-quality sound and an unmatched energetic stage show. Shucking Bubba is known for their high-energy, crowd-pleasing covers ranging from old school hip-hop to funk to alternative rock. They were voted the Best Cover Band in Columbus by readers of 614 Magazine in 2024, 2025, and 2026. Ridgemont High has been billed as Western Pennsylvania’s ultimate 80s tribute band, channeling the decade's wild energy with big hair, neon style, and a high-octane party that packs the dance floor and has the crowd singing along to every word. Beyond the stage, the festival will feature food trucks from The Gringo gourmet tacos, Izzy’s Smashburgers and Fries, Chick-fil-A, and Dupe's Scoops ice cream. “We have been thrilled to support Party on the Plaza since day one,” said Bob Contraguerro, Jr., Vice President of presenting sponsor Panhandle Cleaning and Restoration. “It is for a truly great cause, and we are so proud to see it grow into one of the premiere summer events in Wheeling." Early-bird discounted tickets are available at https://PartyOnThePlaza.org. Tickets are $30 and include a $10 beverage credit. Doors open at 5:00 pm. The Party on the Plaza is organized by the Circus Saints and Sinners and benefits WVU Medicine Golisano Children’s hospital. It is supported by several local and regional businesses. In addition to platinum presenting sponsor, Panhandle Cleaning and Restoration. Other major sponsors include Glessner Snodgrass Wealth Management, Gumby's/Geno's, Kalkreuth Roofing and Sheet Metal, Lowe’s, RE/MAX Broadwater, WesBanco, WVU Medicine, and Generations Restaurant & Pub. Read the full article

The wait is over, Miners Nation! The Wheeling Miners are headed to the American Arena League Championship and will host the Columbus Lions on Saturday, July 11 at WesBanco Arena. First and foremost, we want to thank our incredible fans for your unwavering support and patience throughout the 2026 season. It has been a challenging road, with schedule changes beyond our control and two heartbreaking losses by a combined total of just three points. Through it all, our players, coaches, staff, partners, and the best fans in the league never stopped believing. That perseverance has paid off, and now the Miners have earned the opportunity to compete for the AAL Championship on our home turf. Championship Ticket Information Tickets for the championship game go on sale Wednesday, July 1, at 10:00 AM. Special All-In Pricing: $30 $20 $10 Group ticket packages are also available. Please note the following ticket policies: Championship game tickets will be valid for both the 1:00 PM and 7:00 PM games. Each ticket barcode will scan twice, allowing entry to both games. Fans who purchased tickets for the May 30 game may use those tickets for the championship without exchanging them at the box office. Those barcodes will automatically validate. Fans holding tickets from the May 23 game must exchange those tickets at the box office before the championship. Playoff tickets are not valid for the championship games. This is the moment we’ve all been working toward. Let’s pack WesBanco Arena, create an unforgettable championship atmosphere, and show the entire league what Miners Nation is all about. Be loud. Wear your blue and gold. Bring your friends and family. Together, let’s defend our home and bring the championship trophy to the Ohio Valley. We’ll see you on Saturday, July 11. Go Miners! Read the full article

The Wheeling Fire Department responded to a fully involved house fire in the 400 block of Highland Avenue in the Warwood neighborhood around 6:40 p.m. Tuesday, June 30. Firefighters were dispatched after a 911 call reported the fire. Heavy flames and smoke were visible when crews arrived. Crew were able to get the fire under control in about 30 minutes. No injuries were reported. The home is considered a total loss. Warwood Avenue was temporarily restricted while firefighters worked at the scene. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Read the full article

WHEELING, W.VA. – The City of Wheeling is pleased to announce that Rabbi Joshua Lief of Temple Shalom has been selected to serve as chair of the newly established Wheeling Homeless Task Force, a broad-based community initiative created by Mayor Denny Magruder to bring together leaders from across the community to address the complex challenges surrounding homelessness and its impact on the City. Rabbi Lief will lead an executive committee comprised of faith-based leaders representing Wheeling's diverse religious community. Under his leadership, the Task Force will work collaboratively to develop practical, compassionate and accountable solutions that address homelessness while strengthening neighborhoods, supporting local businesses and improving the quality of life throughout the community. The Task Force will include representatives from a wide cross-section of the community, including social service providers, public safety professionals, mental health and addiction specialists, health care providers, city officials, business representatives, neighborhood residents and individuals with lived experience who have previously experienced homelessness. When establishing the Task Force, Mayor Magruder charged its members with a clear mission: to develop and implement coordinated, compassionate and accountable strategies that reduce homelessness, restore confidence in public spaces, support local businesses and connect vulnerable individuals with pathways toward treatment, housing and long-term stability. "The challenges surrounding homelessness cannot be solved by any one organization or individual," Magruder said. "This Task Force recognizes that lasting progress requires collaboration, compassion, accountability and a willingness to bring every voice to the table. While we understand that we cannot eliminate homelessness entirely, we believe we can make meaningful, positive differences in the lives of individuals while strengthening our community as a whole." The Task Force will begin meeting in the coming weeks to establish priorities, identify opportunities for improved coordination among existing agencies and organizations, and develop recommendations designed to enhance services, improve public spaces, support local businesses and create pathways toward housing stability. The City of Wheeling looks forward to working alongside community partners under Rabbi Lief's leadership to build a coordinated response that reflects the community's shared commitment to compassion, responsibility and lasting progress. Read the full article

Everyone has holiday traditions that simply feel like home. I LOVE to decorate for the holidays. In fact, let’s go about this correctly: “Hi, my name is Erikka, and I have a decorating problem.” Christmas may have the gifts. Thanksgiving may have the turkey (and all of my nieces and 50% of my nephew’s birthdays), and Halloween may have the candy. None of them compare to the excitement I feel when it is time to pull out the red, white, and blue. Maybe – who knows? – it’s because it is summer, but it’s mostly because I love my country. My patriotic decorations started appearing around the house in early June this year, and they will probably stay until Labor Day. Some people may think that is a little excessive, but I enjoy it. The little twinkle fairy lights bring me so much joy. 'The children who once chased each other through the yard carrying sparklers are now adults with lives and responsibilities of their own.' The children who once chased each other through the yard carrying sparklers are now adults with lives and responsibilities of their own. Every room has a little touch of Americana. Flags wave from flowerpots. Wreaths hang from the doors. Pillows, table runners, lanterns, stars, and every shade of red, white, and blue imaginable seem to find their way into our home. Walking through the door instantly reminds me that summer has arrived. Decorating has never really been about the decorations. It has always been about the memories. One tradition started nearly 30 years ago when I bought my son Seth his very first Fourth of July T-shirt. It was sometime in the late 1990s. Like so many traditions, I had no idea I was starting one. Every year after that, I found patriotic shirts for my children. When I had girls, they got outfits, hair bows, and jewelry. All in red, white, and blue. Sometimes they matched. Sometimes they did not. It really did not matter. The excitement of seeing what they would wear became just as important as the holiday itself. Those little shirts have now grown into adult sizes, but they still come. The children who once chased each other through the yard carrying sparklers are now adults with lives and responsibilities of their own. Somehow, though, they still expect Mom to have everything ready for the Fourth. Truthfully, as much crap as I take for all my decorations, I would be disappointed if they did not look forward to it with anticipation. The desserts have been one of my favorite parts. Payton, Alexis, and I in the kitchen making cupcakes, specialty drinks in cool glasses, trying new icing techniques were memories I hope they carry with them. No fancy bakery could ever compete with homemade treats, like strawberry shortcake with  strawberries, blueberries, and whipped cream. Every year we experimented with something new. Sometimes the desserts looked exactly as planned. Sometimes they looked like a patriotic explosion in the kitchen. Either way, they always disappeared before the fireworks started. Then there are the supplies. Regular paper plates simply will not do. It’s not a holiday celebration without patriotic tablecloths, festive napkins, matching plates, cups, and enough decorations to make a party store proud. 'Traditions matter.' That leads me to my favorite. Glow sticks. They are mandatory. Not just any glow sticks, either. They need to be red, white, and blue. We have purchased sparklers by the box. Watching my children wave sparklers in the yard was always a fun way to spend the evening. Those tiny lights somehow capture everything wonderful about childhood. They last only a few moments, yet the memories stay with us forever. Heck, I remember doing the same by the Oakmont water tower way back in the day. Perhaps that is why I love the Fourth of July so much. But it is bittersweet because I am reminded how quickly time passes. The little hands reaching for glow sticks have become adult hands carrying car keys. The tiny feet running across the yard have become confident steps into careers, engagements, and new adventures. Every holiday reminds us that our children are growing up. The Fourth of July seems especially good at reminding us to enjoy every single moment before another summer slips away. My enthusiasm is not isolated to decorations or desserts. It is about celebrating where we live. I know our country is not perfect. No country ever has been. Every generation has faced challenges, disagreements, and difficult conversations. Even so, I still believe America is something worth celebrating. The Fourth of July reminds us that freedom deserves gratitude. Our flag represents generations of men and women who believed this nation was worth protecting. It represents opportunities that millions around the world still dream about. Taking one day each year to celebrate that heritage feels like time well spent, especially this year on her 250th. Perhaps that is why I have never apologized for going overboard. I like to think my neighbors smile as they drive by my patriotic porch. If someone thinks I have too many decorations, that is perfectly fine too. If my family rolls their eyes because I bought one more patriotic decoration, they know exactly what to expect from me by now. Traditions matter. Children may outgrow the shirts, but they never outgrow the memories. Someday, I hope my own children decorate their homes with just a little more enthusiasm because they remember what it felt like growing up in ours. Maybe they will buy patriotic shirts for their own children. Maybe they will experiment with festive desserts. Maybe they will hand out glow sticks as dusk settles in and watch little faces light up with excitement. If that happens, then the tradition continues. This year, as I sit on the patio surrounded by every shade of red, white, and blue imaginable, I will once again be reminded that happiness is often found in the simplest traditions. A family gathered together. A table full of food. My kids, no matter how old they are, laughing together. Sparklers glowing against a summer sky. Flags gently waving in the welcome breeze. If loving Americana, festive decorations, and every excuse to celebrate our nation’s birthday is a little over the top, then I happily plead guilty. I will keep decorating early, celebrating often, and leaving those patriotic decorations up until Labor Day. After all, summer is short, freedom is precious, and there is never too much red, white, and blue. Happy 250th Birthday, America. (The cover photo is of a cupcake created by Erikka's daughter, Payton.) Read the full article

Marshall County Sheriff Mike Dougherty announces that on Monday, June 29, 2026, the Marshall County Sheriff's Office Special Response Team (SRT) successfully executed a felony arrest warrant for Tristen E. Weyrick at his residence on Harts Run Road in Marshall County. Upon the team's arrival, Weyrick attempted to evade law enforcement by hiding underneath the residence. After a thorough search of the property, deputies located him beneath the house and took him into custody without incident.  The arrest is the result of a joint investigation conducted by the Marshall County Sheriff's Office and the Pennsylvania State Police. The felony arrest warrant was issued after investigators determined that Weyrick had stolen an ATV. "This arrest is another example of the outstanding work being accomplished through strong partnerships between law enforcement agencies," said Sheriff Mike Dougherty. "Working closely with the Pennsylvania State Police and our Special Response Team continues to prove that cooperation and communication are effective tools in combating crime in Marshall County and ensuring those responsible are held accountable." The Marshall County Sheriff's Office remains committed to working alongside local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to keep our communities safe. Read the full article

Yes, we’re freaked out. It appears the new owner of the Pittsburgh Penguins – The Hoffman Family of Companies – may adopt the freakin' Florida Everblades as their new ECHL affiliate because the corporation already owns the franchise. If and when it’s announced, it will make total sense to those in the sports business industry, but, of course, not to us Nailers fans because we wear black and gold likes it's our uniform. Not all of us, but many residents of the Northern Panhandle are big fans of the professional sports team based in Pittsburgh, and while that changes for many followers once they live on the west side of the Ohio River, the Nailers attract hockey enthusiasts from there, too. Why? Because, for many local Nailers fans, it has nothing to do with the fact that the Pittsburgh Penguins have been Wheeling’s ECHL affiliate for nearly three decades. It’s cool because of proximity, sure, and autograph nights with former Pens Hall of Famers attract a plethora of folks hoping to get a jersey, trading card, or photo autographed, but it’s not like Mario Lemieux is a season ticket holder here in Wheeling. This is about hockey, folks, and the game of hockey is going nowhere. This is about the fact that Wheeling has sent 64 players and seven coaches to the NHL’s “Show”, and it's because Wheeling will begin another 36-home-game schedule this October as a member of the ECHL's Central Division. If the Penguins are not Wheeling’s affiliate, another NHL franchise will be. And the development will continue.   Think deeply about why 115,000 fans passed through the turnstiles at Wesbanco Arena this past season and postseason. Was it just because there was an affiliation with the Penguins? Or was it because we enjoyed a dynamic, pulsing atmosphere that was kid-friendly and surrounded by on-ice success? Was it because of the elevated concessions? The impressive promotional giveaway evenings? The updated tech inside the arena? Frosty Fridays? Or was it because the players adopted us by visiting our schools, our community fundraisers, and by skating with your children on Sundays? During the postseason, did nearly 25,000 fans inside Wesbanco Arena cheer for the Pens to beat Reading or Maine or Florida? Or were we rooting for our Wheeling Nailers? We all know the answer to those questions, now don't we? Let's break it down this way: The most definite best news? The Nailers organization and the ECHL are going nowhere.   The maybe-bad news?  Well, perhaps these new Hoffman owners are willing to lose some ticket sales by aligning with the Everblades, but if that’s their final decision – and we should find out soon – pro hockey will live on in Wheeling, W.Va., and we’ll cheer for our new affiliate to defeat our old affiliate. Just like that. OH! And P.S. ... The Nailers team colors for the 2026-27 season will once again be black and gold whether the Hoffman family likes it or not. Read the full article

Ohio County, WV – A portion of Interstate 70 eastbound will have the left lane closed in the Wheeling Tunnel from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, for tunnel maintenance. The Market Street ramp will also be closed during this time. Motorists are advised to slow down, use alternate routes, and expect delays. Alternate Routes: Use US 40 westbound or US 40 to Interstate 70 and Interstate 470. Inclement weather or unforeseen circumstances could change the project schedule. Read the full article

Community Bank and Schenk Lake Charitable Trust Present Three Days of Patriotic Fun WHEELING, W.Va. — Oglebay invites families and visitors from across the region to celebrate America's 250th anniversary during Salute to Patriotism, a three-day holiday weekend filled with fireworks, live entertainment, family activities, patriotic experiences, and summertime fun from July 3-5. Presented by Community Bank and the Schenk Lake Charitable Trust, Salute to Patriotism transforms Oglebay into a destination for all-American celebration, bringing together friends, families, and visitors for one of the Ohio Valley's most anticipated summer traditions. Throughout the weekend, guests can enjoy lakeside festivities, poolside entertainment, live music, family-friendly activities, classic summer food and an unforgettable fireworks display over Schenk Lake. "Salute to Patriotism is a celebration of the values that bring us together as Americans and as a community," said Bob Peckenpaugh, President and CEO of the Wheeling Park Commission. "As our nation commemorates America 250, we're excited to welcome families to Oglebay to create memories, honor our shared history and celebrate the spirit of freedom that has defined our country for 250 years.” Community Bank returns as presenting sponsor of the event, helping enhance the guest experience and support a weekend designed to bring generations together. "Community Bank is proud to be part of a tradition that means so much to families throughout the Ohio Valley," said Jon Greer, Community Bank SVP Regional President of Wheeling/Ohio Valley. "Salute to Patriotism creates opportunities for people to gather, celebrate our nation's heritage and make lasting memories with loved ones. We are honored to support this exciting community tradition and help make this America 250 celebration one to remember." Salute to Patriotism Weekend Schedule Friday, July 3 – Lakeside Celebration & Fireworks Location: Schenk Lake 3-6:30 PM – Live Music with DJ Daner 3-9 PM – Inflatable Fun Zone 5 PM – Americana Skydiving Demonstration 6-8 PM – Foam Party 7 PM – Independence Day Concert featuring MSM 9:45 PM – Fireworks Extravaganza over Schenk Lake Saturday, July 4 – Independence Day Celebration Oglebay Park Resort 10 AM – Firecracker 5K Run/Walk 12-5 PM – All-American Pool Party at Crispin Center Outdoor Pool featuring live music, a poolside BBQ and family friendly activities. 12-4 PM – Inflatable Fun Zone at Schenk Lake Sunday, July 5 – Parkwide Fun and Sunday Funday Americana Beach Celebration Oglebay Park Resort | Oglebay Amphitheater 12-4 PM – Inflatable Fun Zone at Schenk Lake 4:30 PM – Sunday Funday Americana Beach Celebration 4:30 PM – Live Steel Drum Music in the Formal Gardens 6 PM – Games and competitions including: Hot Dog Eating Contest, Hula Hoop Competition and Beach-themed Games and Activities 7 PM – Surfs Up Beach Boys Tribute Band While Salute to Patriotism serves as the signature holiday weekend celebration, it is only one part of Oglebay and Wheeling Park's broader America 250 initiative. Additional commemorative events throughout the summer will honor the nation's semiquincentennial through community gatherings, entertainment, educational experiences and opportunities to celebrate the people, stories and spirit that have shaped America over the past 250 years. For a complete schedule of events and more information, visit oglebay.com. Read the full article

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey is proud to announce that Air National Guard Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe has been awarded the inaugural Freedom 250: Hometown Hero Award sponsored by the Department of Justice in honor of America’s 250th birthday. In a ceremony today, United States Attorney Matthew Harvey awarded WV Air National Guard Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe the Hometown Hero Award at the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office. On November 26, 2025, WV Air National Guard Staff Sergeant Wolfe, and his partner U.S. Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, were bravely policing the nation’s capital when an Afghan national committed an ambush-style shooting of both West Virginia Guardsmen.  Staff Sergeant Wolfe is a resident of the Northern District of West Virginia during the time of the shooting.  Staff Sergeant Wolfe survived his injuries and continues to recover in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia.  SPC Beckstrom sadly succumbed to her injuries she sustained while on duty.  On February 24, 2026, President Donald J. Trump awarded Staff Sergeant Wolfe the Purple Heart and posthumously awarded SPC Beckstrom the Purple Heart. “As we honor Staff Sergeant Wolfe, we recognize his bravery, patriotism, and sacrifice,” said U.S. Attorney Matthew Harvey. “There is no person more deserving to be celebrated during this 250th anniversary of our freedom as the United States of America.” The Freedom 250: Hometown Hero Award was created in honor of the 250th birthday of the United States of America. The Department of Justice is proud to honor law enforcement across the country with recognition of the extraordinary service to their fellow citizens. Read the full article

Reminder: Any firework that propels into the air that is combustible or explosive, flammable, or audible is illegal to use in the City of Wheeling. This includes bottle & skyrockets, roman candles, and sky lanterns. In other areas of West Virginia, including outside Wheeling's city limits in Ohio County, the regulations are listed below: West Virginia’s State Fire Marshal provides the following guidelines: A person may not intentionally ignite, discharge or use consumer fireworks on public or private property without the express permission of the owner to do so. A person may not intentionally ignite or discharge any consumer fireworks or sparkling devices within or throw the same from a motor vehicle or building. A person may not intentionally ignite or discharge any consumer fireworks or sparkling devices into or at a motor vehicle or building, or at any person or group of people. A person may not intentionally ignite or discharge any consumer fireworks or sparkling devices while the person is under the influence of alcohol, any controlled substance or any other drug. A person who is less than eighteen years of age may not purchase, nor offer for sale, consumer fireworks. A person who is less than sixteen years of age may not purchase, nor offer for sale, sparker or novelty devices. Read the full article

City Clerk, Sondra Hewitt, announces to all individuals wishing to seek a seat on Moundsville City Council for the November 3, 2026, General Municipal Election that they may file for candidacy on the 1st day of July 2026 and through the 14th day of August 2026. Forms may be picked up in person at the City Clerk's office from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Three positions are open for offices: Second Ward Councilperson (4-Year Term); Fourth Ward Councilperson (4-Year Term); and Councilperson at Large (4-Year Term). Further information may be acquired by contacting the City Clerk at 304-845-3394. Read the full article

Marshall County, WV – A portion of County Route 48 (Lone Oak Road), in Cameron, from milepost 6.33 to milepost 9.47, will be closed, beginning on Monday, June 29, 2026, through mid-July, for road maintenance. Emergency vehicles will be accommodated and should expect delays. Motorists are advised to use an alternate route. Alternate Routes: Use County Route 48 (Dry Ridge Road), County Route 26 (Number Two Ridge), County Route 7 (Viola Road), or County Route 15/1 (Cold Springs Road). Inclement weather or unforeseen circumstances could change the project schedule. Read the full article