Opinion

Investing in Education: Power of Partnerships for West Virginia’s Future

Local Columns

Each November, Americans celebrate National American Education Week, a time to honor the educators, families, and communities that help every student reach their potential. This year’s theme, running Nov. 17–21, reminds us that education is the foundation of opportunity and the heartbeat of every thriving community. In West Virginia, we know this truth deeply. Our teachers and school leaders are heroes — steadfastly shaping minds and opening doors of possibility for nearly 280,000 students statewide. Their dedication and innovation deserve our highest praise. Yet, as we celebrate ...

When the Days Get Darker, Remember You’re Not Alone

Local Columns

As daylight fades and temperatures drop, something quiet but heavy often begins to settle in. The holidays are approaching, and while they may bring bright lights and moments of joy, they can also stir up anxiety, loneliness and stress. In our region, when finances tighten around gift-giving and travel, and when family gatherings bring old wounds or tension to the surface, anxiety and low mood can show up fast. The reality is, this season affects people more than we realize. Some are grieving. Some are overwhelmed by the pressure to make everything perfect. Others are navigating ...

EPA, Senators Working Together To Deliver for West Virginia

Local Columns

When you reflect on the history of the Mountain State, the words “West Virginia” and “energy” are inextricably linked. Coal was first discovered in West Virginia in 1742, natural gas was first struck in 1815, and the state’s first oil-producing well was completed in 1860. Each of these discoveries happened before West Virginia was recognized as the nation’s 35th state. In fact, West Virginians were enjoying public electric streetlamps a full three years before electric lights were installed in the White House in 1891. When it comes to energy, West Virginia has always led the ...

Learn Your Districts

Editorials

Given the degree to which so many in Washington, D.C., have shown us their reluctance to do their jobs — or remember for whom they work — lately, it is likely the 2026 elections will be a time for voters to take action. In Ohio, change is imminent, as redrawn congressional districts will mean upheaval for lawmakers and those heading to the polls. Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose is trying to get out ahead of any confusion by updating the office’s Find My District tool now. The hope is voters will not be caught off guard just as they are looking to cast their ballots in the ...

Keep Red Kettles Full This Holiday Season

Editorials

The Ohio Valley air soon will be filled with the familiar holiday sound of ringing bells, as the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle season returns. Throughout the region, people will be standing beside those kettles, bells clanging, bringing attention to the Salvation Army’s mission of helping those who are in greatest need of it. That need has only increased this year. At this week’s Red Kettle Kickoff Luncheon, Salvation Army Lt. John Lawrence said that, because of rising costs and a government shutdown that suspended SNAP fund distributions, his organization has served four times as ...

Make Sure Kids Are Safe Online

Editorials

Parents and guardians cannot receive reminders often enough about the urgent need to prepare kids for staying safe online. Local residents got an alarming one this week with news that Steven James Boose, 35, of Littlestown, Pa., had been arrested after allegedly traveling to Parkersburg to meet with a person he believed to have been a 14-year-old girl, with whom he’d been corresponding online. Parkersburg Police met up with him, instead, and Boose has been charged with one count of soliciting a minor and six counts of use of obscene matter with intent to seduce a minor. And the ...