Lede News

"Barely a trickle”. That’s how the mayor of Valley Grove describes how Little Wheeling Creek usually flows through his town of about 250 residents. That wasn’t the case, of course, about a year ago when portions of Ohio County were pounded with multiple inches of rain in a short amount of time, and Valley Grove, Triadelphia, and parts of Elm Grove were flooded worse than most residents remember. Nine individuals perished, too, and homes, vehicles, and everything not tied or weighted down were swept away as far as the Ohio River. This Saturday at 11 a.m., a memorial for the victims will be unveiled and dedicated at the Triadelphia United Methodist Church, and on Sunday, Kleeh will welcome residents, first responders, and volunteers to Valley Grove’s Picnic at 1 p.m. at the Community Park. Valley Grove Mayor Chad Kleeh has hope for his hometown after seeing the collective reaction of the members of his community. “I remember after there was some time that had passed after the flooding when we didn’t get any rain for about two weeks, and I looked down at (Little Wheeling Creek) and there was barely a trickle that couldn’t have been a foot wide,” he recalled. “Just two weeks earlier, and it was more than nine feet deep and a whole different story. “A lot of the flooding started in Valley Grove because the rain hit up above us in Ohio County. It all flowed down the hills, hit us, but then it did so much damage downstream,” Kleeh said. “We had a lot of residents who had their basements full, but they were out helping others because of how bad it was in Triadelphia and in parts of Elm Grove.” Kleeh was away on Father’s Day weekend so he wasn’t immediately aware that a severe thunderstorm warning was issued for Ohio County before, according to the National Weather Service, between 2.5 and 4.5 inches of rain fell during a two-hour stretch of time. Most of the damage caused by the flash flooding in Triadelphia and Valley Grove has provided never-before-seen images. While nine individuals ranging from 83 to 3 years old were killed, first responders rescued more than 100 individuals who were found clinging to trees and fences and telephone poles along U.S. Route 40. “I can still remember very clearly the first time I drove around, and I remember the moment I thought to myself, ‘You’re the mayor. You have to do something.’,” Kleeh said. “And I remember not knowing where to start. I had no idea. I don’t think anyone did. “We just kind of looked around at first, not believing our eyes. No one had ever seen anything like it,” he recalled. “All of a sudden, it was like 500 pounds had fallen on everyone’s shoulders. It was just very emotional. That's all I can say. It was emotional.” Little Wheeling Creek was clogged at several points during the flash flooding that destroyed parts of Ohio County on June 14th. Tears and Fears The residents immediately looked to their mayor, a man who had just been elected – again – for his fifth term in office. Officials with the Ohio County Emergency Management were calling, and so were the Governor’s Office, the sheriff’s department, and every other first responder agency in the region. And Chad Kleeh’s head was spinning. “But after about a week, I got into a routine with all of the volunteers, the county officials, and the first responders, and one night I sat down on my porch with my girlfriend, and I just melted. I remember her telling me to let it out,” said Kleeh, now in his 20th year as Valley Grove’s mayor. “She said to me, ‘I don't know how you've been holding it up this long. You've been strong for everybody.’ But that’s just what the mayor is supposed to do, right? Kleeh is a member of The Roadhog Band, a group that has played for donations that have benefited the flood victims in Ohio County. “So yeah, I cried like a baby that night,” he explained. “I’m sure everyone involved had that moment, too, because it seems like once we did one thing, there were always 10 more things to do for people. There were cars in the creek, and furnaces and hot water tanks to rip out, and the meetings and the Governor and everything else. It was the toughest time.” But then a team of representatives from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the federal Small Business Administration (SBA) landed in Ohio County, and so did volunteers with national Christian groups known as Samaritan’s Purse and Eight Days of Hope. And progress was finally visible, and it’s continued since. Nearly 100 vehicles were swept into Little Wheeling Creek during the flash flooding. (Photo by Erika Donaghy) “It’s good to see so many of our residents have been able to get back into their houses after their basements and first floors got hit with the flooding because I really thought it would take much longer,” Kleeh said. “But, in the beginning, I don’t think anyone anticipated the arrivals of the national Christian groups that came in to help. Those folks were incredible, and they joined in with all of the volunteers from Wheeling and from around the valley. “We’re all just so thankful,” the Valley Grove mayor said. “We’ll never be back to normal, especially in Triadelphia, but we’re far ahead of where I thought we’d be after a year. At first, I had no idea how we were going to deal with everything.” In September 2004, Ohio County was hit with flash flooding along Big Wheeling Creek, and hundreds of properties were damaged between the Elm Grove and Fulton neighborhoods. Mounds of debris bordered roadways for weeks, and FEMA, the SBA, and the Red Cross were in the Wheeling area for a few months. The monument will honor the nine victims of the fatal flash flood that swept through Valley Grove, Triadelphia, and parts of Elm Grove. But there wasn't the death, the destruction, or the devastation. “By far, this is the worst tragedy I have ever seen happen here in this area. There’s nothing I’ve seen during my lifetime that comes close to comparing,” Kleeh said. “We’ve had floods in Valley Grove before, but we’ve never lost lives like we did last year. “I guess I was very lucky not to see a tragedy like that until I was 48 years old, but I wish I had never seen it at all,” he said. “I cried when I saw our communities destroyed. It was overwhelming.” https://ledenews.com/pastor-mike-palmer-were-recovering-from-it-and-were-doing-it-together/ https://ledenews.com/top-stories-of-25-historic-flooding-claims-9-lives-in-ohio-county/ Read the full article

“We are very community minded,” she said. “We help many people, when they have a fire or are low on food. People can have flags in their yards that we put up which shows our patriotic spirit and continued pride in the Bridgeport communities.”

For additional information about the Wheeling Military Banner Program or upcoming ceremonies, please contact Larch by calling 304.281.8811, via email [email protected] or visit the website at troopbanners.com/wheeling.

On June 11, 2026; Detectives with the Belmont County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Interdiction Unit, assigned to Ohio Organized Crime Investigations Commission; executed an early morning search warrant at 72581 Uniontown Flushing Rd, Flushing, Ohio 43977 with the assistance of the Belmont County Special Operations Branch. Sheriff James G. Zusack stated that the search warrant brought an end to a lengthy investigation. Three people were located on the premises and arrested. The parties were charged with multiple drug related charges. Inside the residence, Detectives located a large amount of suspected cocaine along with multiple manufacturing stations within the residence. Arrested were 35-year-old Kody Vinka of Bellaire, Ohio, 37-year-old Lewis Dunn of Flushing, Ohio and 43-year-old Stacy Brown-Jaworski of St. Clairsville, Ohio. All three have been booked into the Belmont County Jail on the same charges Administer/Manufacture Controlled Substance, Possession of drugs X 2 and Possession of drug abuse instruments. Sheriff James G. Zusack would like to thank the residents of Belmont County, Ohio, Harrison County Sheriff’s Office, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, along with members of the Belmont County Special Operations Branch, and the Belmont County Criminal Interdiction Unit. Sheriff Zusack continues to encourage all residents of Belmont County to come forward information to the Belmont Sheriff’s Office whenever illegal activities occur. Read the full article

Ohio County, WV – A portion of WV 2, near 46 River Road, in Wheeling, will have a lane restriction, from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., through late June, for a main gas line replacement. A temporary traffic light or flaggers will maintain traffic. Motorists are advised to slow down and expect delays. Inclement weather or unforeseen circumstances may change the project schedule. Read the full article

After a year quietly perfecting its custom flavor profiles and signature melt-in-your-mouth chocolate chunks, downtown Wheeling's creamery debuts a full menu of sundaes, shakes, and signature creations — and stakes its claim as the best ice cream in 100 miles. WHEELING, WV — On Friday, June 12, NB Café & Creamery at 1000 Main Street will throw open the doors on its full creamery menu with a public Ice Cream Season Kickoff, inviting the entire Ohio Valley to come downtown and taste what a year of patient craft has produced. NB spent its first year as a creamery doing something most shops skip: taking its time. Rather than rushing a menu to market, the team dialed in its custom flavor profiles one at a time and developed the proprietary melt-in-your-mouth chocolate chunks that now run through its signature flavors. Every batch is handcrafted and churned on site. The butterfat runs rich. And after a year of refinement, manager Emily “Rudy” Ryan is ready to say out loud what regulars have been saying for months. “We spent a year making sure that when we said we had the best ice cream in 100 miles, we could back it up,” said “Rudy”. “Now we can. Come downtown and taste it for yourself.” The full menu launching Friday is built around a flagship trio. The Donut Split nestles three scoops of our coffee heath bar ice cream in a glazed donut split lengthwise, with hot fudge and caramel running down the middle. The Wheeling Feeling is our take on the classic banana split, complete with a fresh banana, chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla ice cream, with the classic toppings of pineapple, hot fudge and strawberry. It is finished with 3 swirls of whipped cream and 3 cherries, and crushed peanuts for those who dabble. Finally, The Flight lines up six of our signature flavors (your choice) in a banana split boat — built for the whole table to share. Wheeling shows up all over the menu. The Capitol is a chocolate shake named for the historic theatre across the street. The Nailer is a brownie-based sundae for the hockey faithful and Mud On The Tires honors Glen Dale-born country star Brad Paisley. A limited-edition ‘Merica 250 Sundae — built on an apple pie base and finished with an American flag pick — marks the nation's 250th anniversary through July.  And if you just want ice cream, NB has sixteen custom homemade flavors made right on sight ready for you to devour. For “Rudy”, this launch is about more than ice cream. It is about giving the people of the Ohio Valley a reason to come back downtown on a summer evening, and to become a place that their families will talk about for generations. Located directly across from the historic Wheeling Suspension Bridge and steps from the Capitol Theatre, NB sits at the heart of a downtown that is finding its evening rhythm again. “We want to be the place where friends and families gather and make memories,” “Rudy” said. “The place you take out-of-town guests when they come to visit. The place that makes a Tuesday night feel like something special. Downtown Wheeling deserves that, we’ve had it before, and we are committed and proud to help rebuild it.” Event Details The Ice Cream Season Kickoff runs Friday, June 12 from at NB Café & Creamery, 1000 Main Street, downtown Wheeling. The evening will feature the full creamery menu and is free and open to the public. To sweeten the deal, we will also be giving customers 20% off all ice cream sales. All are welcome! Media Taste Testing Members of the media receive a free sundae or shake during the event.  We wouldn't call this a bribe, but an opportunity to do some first hand reporting.  We would love to host you and someone will be available for interviews from noon till 8:00pm. About NB Café & Creamery NB Café & Creamery is downtown Wheeling's homemade creamery and craft coffee shop, located at 1000 Main Street across from the historic Wheeling Suspension Bridge. Every flavor is made on site, and our signature items are named after Wheeling landmarks, a local institution, or an Ohio Valley touchstone. With something for everyone, NB features any coffee-based drink you can think of, blended lemonades, smoothies, delicious baked goods and homemade pepperoni rolls, and even an indoor playground for our customers’ children. NB is also the only place in the downtown Wheeling market currently serving dirty sodas. We personally invite you to stop by, taste, and see for yourselves all that NB Café & Creamery has to offer!  Read the full article

There was a time when finding information seemed relatively simple. You picked up a newspaper, watched the evening news, listened to the radio, or spoke with someone you trusted. Heck, I am old enough to remember the research papers, searching encyclopedias, and the term papers required for grades. Certainly, mistakes were made then, too, but the sheer volume of information was manageable, at least it seemed like it was. Today, we live in a world where more information is available at our fingertips than at any point in human history. Yet somehow, finding the truth has never seemed more difficult. I wonder if one would ask a Gen Z or Alpha about the Dewey Decimal System, what would the response be? Dewey Who? What did he sing? Every day, millions of articles, videos, social media posts, podcasts, blogs, and opinion pieces flood the internet. Some are well-researched and factual. Some are incomplete. Some are intentionally misleading. Others are entirely made-up. The challenge facing Americans today is no longer finding information. Today’s challenge is determining which information deserves our trust. The internet has become the greatest library ever created, but it has also become the world's largest rumor mill. A simple search on almost any topic can produce dozens of conflicting answers. One website claims a policy will save taxpayers money. Another insists it will bankrupt the government. One expert says a particular food is healthy, and another says it should be avoided. Political issues are perhaps the worst offenders, where every side can present statistics, charts, and studies that appear to support its position. Adding to the confusion is the rise of algorithms. Who came up with these things? Social media platforms are designed to keep users engaged. I remember the first time I noticed this while online shopping. Those shoes just seemed to keep calling to me. They often show us content similar to what we have previously viewed, liked, or shared. Over time, many people find themselves surrounded by information that reinforces their existing beliefs while rarely encountering opposing viewpoints. This creates what we call an "echo chamber." Inside these echo chambers, opinions become facts simply because they are repeated often enough. When everyone around us appears to agree, it becomes easy to assume that our understanding of an issue is complete and correct. Unfortunately, reality is rarely that simple. Artificial intelligence has added another layer of complexity. AI can create realistic images, videos, articles, and even voices. Some of these tools offer tremendous benefits. They can help summarize complex information, answer questions, and improve productivity. However, they can also be used to create convincing misinformation. A photograph is no longer guaranteed to be real. A video may have been distorted. A quote may have been fabricated. What our eyes see can no longer always be trusted. So where does that leave us? First, it requires humility. We must recognize that none of us knows everything. In fact, the more complex an issue becomes, the more likely it is that reasonable people can examine the same facts and reach different conclusions. The willingness to say, "I don't know," may be one of the most valuable skills in today’s society. Second, we must slow down. The internet rewards speed. News breaks instantly. Reactions come within seconds. Outrage spreads before facts are fully known. Many of the biggest misinformation stories gain traction because people share information before making sure it is correct. In so many cases, being first is often less important than being correct. Third, we should seek multiple sources. If a story appears on one website, check and then re-check. If independent organizations with different viewpoints are reporting the same facts, one’s level of confidence can safely increase. Looking beyond headlines is equally important. Many people share articles they have never actually read. Many rely solely on attention-grabbing titles designed to generate clicks. Fourth, pay attention to motives. Who is providing the information? Are they selling a product? Seeking political support? Building an audience? Every source has incentives. Understanding those incentives does not automatically negate the information, but it provides important context. The old saying is often true, follow the money. Fifth, learn to distinguish between facts and opinions. A fact can generally be proven. An opinion reflects someone's interpretation of those facts. Unfortunately, much of today's media blends the two together. Opinion is often presented as news, while news is interpreted through a particular ideological lens. So much “news” comes from scrolling (trolling) Facebook. People need to separate the underlying facts from the commentary surrounding them. We need to rebuild a culture of healthy skepticism without sliding into cynicism. Healthy skepticism asks questions and seeks evidence. Cynicism assumes everyone is lying. The difference matters. If we believe every claim we face, we become vulnerable to deception. If we believe nothing, we become incapable of learning. The challenge is finding the balance between trust and doubt. This challenge covers more than just politics. It affects health decisions, financial choices, education, business, and everyday relationships. The ability to evaluate information critically may become one of the defining skills of the modern day. The irony is impossible to ignore. We have access to more information than any generation before us, yet many people feel less informed. We are constantly connected, yet often uncertain whom we can trust. The search for truth has never been easy. It wasn't easy before the internet, and it isn't any easier now. However, the responsibility ultimately belongs to each of us. We must be willing to read carefully, think critically, question respectfully, and admit when we are wrong. Truth still exists. Facts still matter. Reality has not disappeared. The challenge is cutting through the noise. In a world overflowing with information, wisdom may not come from consuming more content. It may come from becoming more disciplined about what we choose to believe. Perhaps that is the question every one of us should ask before sharing the next headline, reposting the next meme, or reacting to the next viral story: How do I know this is true? That simple question may be one of the most powerful tools we have left. Read the full article

Additional information regarding the application process may be obtained by visiting www.wvgop.org or contacting the Ohio County Republican Executive Committee or the West Virginia Republican Party Executive Director Ryan Jacinto at [email protected] or 304-890-9401.

Families Must Apply by June 15 to Receive 100% Full-Year Award Amount of $5,435.62 CHARLESTON, W.Va. – State Treasurer Larry Pack, who serves as Chairman of the Hope Scholarship Board, is encouraging more families to apply for the Hope Scholarship Program before the application deadline for full-funding closes one week from today on Monday, June 15 for the 2026-2027 academic year. Applications are available online at www.HopeScholarshipWV.gov. “Every child deserves a shot at a bright future – and that’s what the Hope Scholarship offers. We’ve already seen exponential growth in applications since expanding eligibility to all West Virginia children in grades K-12 for this upcoming school year,” Treasurer Pack said. “My team is excited to welcome new students to the program because at the end of the day, this is all about empowering parents and students to find the education that fits their unique needs. We encourage West Virginia families to submit their applications by June 15 so they can receive the full award amount.” Treasurer Pack announced in March that existing private school and traditional homeschool students who have not previously been eligible for the Hope Scholarship Program are now eligible to apply to participate in the State’s Education Savings Account program that provides funding to students exercising school choice in lieu of attending public school full-time. So far, 25,675 students have started applications for full funding of the Hope Scholarship Program for the 2026-2027 academic year. Of the 25,675 applications, 13,298 are returning Hope Scholarship recipients who submitted their Continuing Participation Confirmations and 12,377 are new students who applied for the program. There are currently 14,549 active participants (applications in Approved status) for 2025-2026. A student application submitted within the following dates will receive the associated level of Hope Scholarship funding: March 2-June 15: 100% of Hope Scholarship annual award amount. June 16-Sept. 15: 75% of Hope Scholarship annual award amount. Sept. 16-Nov. 30: 50% of Hope Scholarship annual award amount. Dec. 1-Feb. 28: 25% of Hope Scholarship annual award amount. Current Hope Scholarship students who wish to renew their participation in the program during the 2026-2027 school year have until June 15 to submit their Continuing Participation Confirmations. The Hope Scholarship award amount varies each school year depending on the amount of state aid funding per pupil provided to county boards of education for public school students. The scholarship amount for the 2026-2027 school year is $5,435.62. Scholarship funds will now be distributed on a quarterly basis. Families who participated in the Hope Scholarship Program during the 2025-2026 school year are encouraged to complete the Hope Scholarship Parent Satisfaction Survey that was emailed to them last month by June 30, 2026. For more information on the Hope Scholarship, visit www.HopeScholarshipWV.gov. Read the full article

CHARLESTON, WEST VIRGINIA - United States Attorney Matthew L. Harvey was knighted as an Honorary West Virginia Golden Horseshoe recipient by the West Virginia Department of Education (WVDOE) in Charleston today. “I am proud to be a lifelong resident of West Virginia, so to have this honor bestowed upon me is one of the great highlights of my career,” said U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey. “I would like to congratulate all eighth graders this year who were recognized. West Virginia is a beautiful state rich with history, and I commend teachers for ensuring students know that history.” U.S. Attorney Harvey joined two other honorary recipients at a ceremony in the West Virginia Culture Center in Charleston, as well as 225 8th Grade students from across West Virginia who were presented the award by West Virginia Superintendent of Schools Michele L. Blatt. Each year, roughly 22,000 8th grade students study a comprehensive West Virginia curriculum. This curriculum exposes students to the history, geography, economy, and government of the Mountain State.  The Golden Horseshoe is a Mountain State tradition that began in 1931. Each year, the WVDOE honors eight grade students who excel in West Virginia history at a ceremony, knighting them and gifting them a Golden Horseshoe pin. Read the full article

New Chef. New Menu. New Energy. This season, the Garden Bistro has been reimagined from the inside out. Discover a beautifully renovated space, an all-new menu, and fresh culinary direction from our new head chef. Thoughtfully crafted dishes, elevated service, and ingredients sourced from Oglebay's Grow Lab come together to create a dining experience that feels elevated, local, and connected to the park. Reserve Your Table More Than a New Menu Our menu showcases seasonal ingredients, chef-inspired flavors, and produce harvested just steps away at Oglebay's Grow Lab, while the beautifully renovated interior creates a warm and inviting atmosphere inspired by the surrounding gardens. Discover the Bistro's new bar featuring handcrafted cocktails and a thoughtfully curated beverage selection designed to complement every meal. Together, these enhancements create a dining experience that feels both familiar and refreshingly new. View Menu Live Music Every Tuesday Make the Garden Bistro part of your weekly routine with live music featuring the area's favorite local performers every Tuesday from 6 - 8 PM. Pair our new dishes with handcrafted cocktails, and unwind with friends in a vibrant and inviting atmosphere surrounded by blooming gardens and scenic views. Make Reservations

WHEELING, WV- The Wheeling Nailers, proud ECHL affiliate of the Pittsburgh Penguins, have announced their 2026 Protected List. Teams are allowed to protect as many players as they wish, provided the players protected meet the guidelines as defined in the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the ECHL and the Professional Hockey Players’ Association which states that teams shall retain the rights to each player that: 1. Signed an SPC in 2025-26 with the Member, and has not been traded or released, OR 2. Signed an SPC in 2025-26, and was recalled to the NHL/AHL or IIHF team, and has not been traded or released, OR 3. Had received a Qualifying Offer last summer for the current Season, DID NOT sign an SPC, and has not been traded or released, OR 4. Has been suspended by the Member or League, and has not been traded or released, OR 5. Signed an SPC on or after the first day of the 2025-26 Regular Season, then subsequently signed an NHL/AHL contract, and has not been traded or released, OR 6. Has executed the ECHL Retirement Form, and has not been traded or released. The Wheeling Nailers Protected List consists of the following 22 players: F Tanner Andrew F Craig Armstrong F Owen Cole G Gabriel D'Aigle F Randy Hernández D Bogdans Hodass F Nick Hutchison D Alexander Kuqali F Eli Lieffers F Connor Lockhart F Ryan Mahshie F Jordan Martel F Logan Pietila F Mike Posma F Matthew Quercia D Louie Roehl F Tiernan Shoudy G Jake Smith D Evan Stella D Aidan Sutter D Tristan Thompson F Jack Works The next key offseason date is June 20th. All Future Consideration trades must be completed by 3:00 p.m. that day. After that, Season-Ending Rosters are due by 3:00 p.m. on June 22nd. Teams may begin signing players for the 2026-27 season on June 23rd. To stay up to date with all player movement during the offseason, fans can visit https://wheelingnailers.com/team/offseason-central . Read the full article

Is it possible? Has the City of Benwood finally accomplished the final task necessary for the former Bellaire Toll Bridge to be dropped into the Ohio River and sold for scrap? Operations Director – and Marshall County Commissioner – David McLaughlin believes so. That’s because McLaughlin himself has secured a verbal agreement with the last known owner of the span that was closed to all traffic 35 years ago. David McLaughlin serves as one of three Marshall County commissioners, and he's also the director of Operations for the City of Benwood. “We were told by the federal government that it’s too bad it’s a private bridge because if it wasn’t, they’d be able to help with the funding,” the city/county official explained. “Well, we’ve overcome that problem. “So, the lady's name is Crystal Chaklos, and she was the president of KDC Investments, and KDC Investments was technically the owner of the bridge. That company is now a defunct West Virginia company, but she still has had the final say on the bridge. Even today, as the last officer of that company, she still has final say, and she is saying she’s fine with it coming down.” The bridge was purchased in 2003 by KDC Investments, and owner Lee Chaklos had a plan that involved an explosive demolition with a national TV audience watching. However, that plan led to extensive legal battles and fines, and Chaklos was even sentenced to federal prison because of the bridge's condition and his failure to demolish it. A number of private entities have also filed liens against the bridge’s scrap value due to broken business deals with Lee Chaklos, and officials from Ohio’s and West Virginia’s state road departments have stated they do own than span so they are not responsible for its future. The last time Benwood Police Chief Frank Longwell walked the former Bellaire Toll Bridge, the surface of the span felt spongy. But that could change, according to McLaughlin. “When I finally contacted Mrs. Chaclos, she was very pleasant about everything, and she told me right away that she’d sign it over immediately to whoever needs to own it so we can get some help with the demolition,” he revealed. “She asked me to send her a paper so she could sign it, but I can’t do that yet because the little city of Benwood isn't in a position to take ownership of that bridge without the funds to do the right thing with it. “If we would sign that paper today and we got the bridge, we'd be responsible for everything and anything that would happen, and we can’t do that,” he said. “We need at least a promise of funding. We need someone on the federal level who says, ‘Now that you've accomplished the task, we will help you, and this is how we will help you’. “Then, yes, we’ll sign that piece of paper.” The Bellaire Toll Bridge is a cantilever truss toll span that was opened in 1926. (Photo by Mechelle Robinson). A Very Long Story The Bellaire Toll Bridge was opened in 1926, and it cost 5 cents to cross it one way. In 1971, the toll was increased to 25 cents for one way and 40 cents for round-trip travel. The opening of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Bridge in Moundsville in the 1980s reduced traffic, and tolls were increased again to 50 cents one-way and a dollar to travel to and from. The span was finally shuttered in 1991, and the approach ramp was razed to make way for the new Ohio Route 7 bypass around Bellaire. The bridge has had several owners since, but it is the city of Benwood that’s been dealing with falling debris and continued vandalism with no end in sight. “This whole situation makes you wonder if it’s going to take something tragic to happen to finally get people’s attention,” McLaughlin said. “We’ve reported the debris that’s been falling from it, and the concrete that’s fallen onto the (Benwood) street underneath, but that’s not attracted enough attention. Once the Bellaire Toll Bridge was closed in 1991, the entrance/exit ramp in Bellaire was removed by crews with the Ohio Department of Transportation to make way for the then-new Ohio Route 7 bypass around Bellaire. (Photo by Mechelle Robinson) “Someone somewhere needs to understand that the little City of Benwood and its 1,175 people do not have the money to tear down this bridge. If we did, we would,” he said. “It’s going to state and federal resources, but it’s not attracting the attention it needs. We can’t even get a call back, let alone a ‘No’.” And McLaughlin has called – and called and called and called. “It took us a while to locate Mrs. Chaklos because she’s moved around, but as soon as we heard what Mrs. Chaklos was willing to do, we contacted people in Charleston and in Washington. We let them all know,” McLaughlin said. “And we’ve called back more than a few times and all we’ve heard are crickets. It’s been really disappointing. “I know she’ll sign it over to whoever, the state or to the feds, so this can finally get taken care of,” he said. “That bridge hasn’t been inspected in decades, and no one knows what condition it’s in. And yet, we can’t get a call back from the people who can help and who can protect the public from a possible tragedy.” While the ramps and approach to the span have been completely razed from downtown Bellaire, the ramps and approach remain standing - and rotting - on the West Virginia side. (Cover Photo by Mechelle Robinson) Read the full article

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A New Martinsville, West Virginia man was sentenced to 210 months in federal prison for soliciting child sexual abuse material, U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey announced The investigation in this matter began after a social media platform submitted a cyber tip to law enforcement reporting it had identified known child sexual abuse material. Investigators determined that Jon Talkington, 37, had uploaded images and videos of the material to the platform in an effort to obtain additional files from other users. A subsequent search of Talkington’s phones and laptops uncovered hundreds of images and videos depicting child sexual abuse material. “Every offender who trades in this material contributes to the abuse of real children,” said U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.  “Offenders who choose to engage in this conduct will be held accountable and removed from our communities for a very long time.” Assistant U.S. Attorney David Perri prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the West Virginia State Police investigated. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC. U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided. Read the full article

The following statement was released by Ohio County Schools following the arrest of 61-year-old Richard L. McCardle on one felony count of child abuse. McCardle is the former principal of Wheeling Middle School and was allegedly involved in an incident with a student in early March. "The Ohio County Board of Education acknowledges the criminal charge brought against a former principal for conduct that occurred during his employment with the district. "Upon learning of the incident, the district acted promptly and in accordance with its legal obligations which included removing the principal from his duties, making all required mandatory reports, and notifying local law enforcement, the West Virginia Department of Human Services, the West Virginia Department of Education, and the student's family. "That principal’s position has been filled, and the district has continued its operations without interruption.  "The school system remains committed to maintaining a safe and supportive environment for all students and staff and will continue to cooperate fully with any ongoing investigations as it has all along.  The West Virginia Department of Education, as the applicable licensure authority, is expected to review the matter and take appropriate action regarding the individual's professional credentials. "Given this is a pending criminal matter, the school system will have no further comment." Read the full article

WHEELING, W.Va. - The Wheeling Police Department has filed criminal charges against Richard L. McCardle, 61, of Wheeling, on one count of child abuse. On March 9, 2026, Wheeling Police were notified by Ohio County Schools of a physical altercation at Wheeling Middle School involving a student and McCardle, who was the principal at the time. After a lengthy investigation and consultation with the Ohio County Prosecutor’s Office, a felony charge was filed this morning. McCardle turned himself in at Wheeling Police headquarters and was arraigned in Ohio County Magistrate Court, where he posted bond. Due to the sensitive nature of the case involving a juvenile, further information is not being released at this time. Read the full article

There are no sneak peeks before the big show. That’s the unspoken rule. But come Friday at Waterfront Hall near Heritage Port, the pinnacle of the second annual Wheeling Fashion Week will feature the original designs of Ingrid Loy, the owner of Nini’s Treasures at The Highlands. And, while those “looks” are for Friday evening only, Loy does like to tease. Think “USA!” and West “By God” Virginia. The Fashion Week events began Sunday and will continue all week with gatherings scheduled for each day leading up to the runway show on Friday evening and a Pop-Up Shop on Saturday at Waterfront Hall. “I have been in love just with the United States ever since I was a kid,” explained Loy, whose daughter, Alexa, has served as Miss Military Star for the past year. “My father was a Marine and red, white, and blue have been my passion (colors) my whole life. Reciting the Pledge of Allegiance every morning in class meant a lot to me because I just thought it was so cool, and giving back to our veterans has always made so much sense to me. And that’s what this is for me. “It’s giving back to the veterans and giving back to this country that we live in, and I just want to be a part of that,” she said. “And, of course, I am so proud to be from West Virginia. West Virginia gets a bad rap, but West Virginia is amazing. I'm proud to be from West Virginia.” Loy and her husband, Chris, purchased Nini’s Treasures in November 2024, and she’s evolved the shop into one of the most unique boutiques in the tri-state region. Special events, online sales, brands management, and now her design partnership with Edgington Studio owner Emily Rouse are examples of the retail innovation she’s implemented. Nini's Treasures is located in the Town Centre Area of The Highlands, and is open every day except for Sundays. “It is a dream come true. It really is,” Loy admitted. “I thought maybe there would be a day when I'd own the boutique with a lot of shiny pretty things, but now I'm becoming part of people's story when they’re buying gifts for weddings, buying gifts for the bride, buying gifts for graduation, and Mother's Day. “So, that means I'm part of people's story, and I'm getting to really know people,” she said. “But another part of a dream that I had was to design my own things, and now I’ve connected with Emily and we’re in that process. I can’t want to see it all come to fruition and doing it right here in Wheeling makes it so much bigger.” Emily spent more than four years working in New York City's fashion industry before returning to Wheeling to open Edgington Studio to produce her "House of Rouse" clothing label. House of Rouse For more than four years, she was doing “IT” in the fashion world of New York City, and then the pandemic brought her – and her clothing label – home to Wheeling where she opened Edgington Studio in July 2020. That’s where her line of designs, named the “House of Rouse”, are developed and manufactured along with a consistent flow of contracted production lines. The “Rouse” fashion line was created in 2019, and it’s contemporary knitwear for women. “It's the stuff that you wear every day,” Emily explained. “But it's meant to be transitional through seasons and your routine so you can wear it to work and then go out that same night.” Along with her "House of Rouse" line, Emily's studio also manufactures clothing for other designers from across the country. Rouse and Loy initially connected a year ago as Emily was preparing for the inaugural Wheeling Fashion Week, and not only will Ingrid have her “looks” featured during the runway show but she’s also hosting the “Accessories – Then & Now” event at Nini’s Treasures on Tuesday from 5-7 p.m.   “We are finishing the sample pieces of Ingrid’s designs, and then once they’re shown on the runway during our show (this Friday), we’ll get the customer feedback and decide where it goes from there,” Rouse explained. “The customers at the show will determine any changes that need to be made, and the quantities needed. “The connection that I’ve made with Ingrid and Nini’s just makes sense,” she said. “It feels natural with her, and anyone else who wishes to do something like this should let us know. That’s how this works.” Delia Vargo, Ingrid Loy, and Leah Bailer - plus a few other staff members - are ready to help their customers with their holiday shopping. Dreams are funny. One day you’re playing make-believe merchant, and the next you’re a boutique owner who’s designing her own line of clothing. “I played a game when I was a kid that you could have called ‘Boutique’, and it involved all of the clothes that were in the laundry room. I would set up it all up like store, and all my mom cared about is that I would put everything back to where I got them because she had everything sorted,” Loy recalled. “I'd have a men's section, I'd have a kid’s section with my sister’s clothes, and I would set up a boutique in my laundry room. “Our laundry room had sliding glass doors out to our back porch, so I had a little ‘Open’ and ‘Closed’ signs, I had a little register, and I would play boutique,” she explained. “And I sold item to my imaginary customers, and I even bagged up the orders. “So yes, I'm literally living out my dream, and I’m so thankful for the opportunity.” Read the full article