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Major Renovations Bring New Look to St. Michael Parish in Wheeling

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Major Renovations Bring New Look to St. Michael Parish in Wheeling

WHEELING, W.Va. — St. Michael Parish Church in Wheeling is undergoing an extensive renovation that will bring significant changes to the interior of the church.

Work on the project began in June and includes new paint, flooring, pews and several updates to the church’s worship spaces.

St. Michael Parish Development Director Wendy Hinerman said the renovation will introduce new colors throughout the church while replacing several aging features. New pews are also being installed with an emphasis on improving comfort for parishioners.

The project is being supported by the parish’s “Glorious” fundraising campaign, which has set a goal of raising $2 million to help fund the improvements.

Some of the most noticeable changes are planned around the altar. The renovated space will feature mosaic designs, burgundy-colored draperies and new liturgical furnishings, including a new altar and ambo.

A new baptismal font is also planned for the rear of the church, where additional mosaic work will be incorporated into the design.

Parish leaders say the renovations are intended to update the church while creating a space that can continue serving future generations.

Hinerman said the project is about more than the building itself, pointing to the weddings, graduations, First Communions and other milestones that will continue to take place inside St. Michael Parish for years to come.

Work remains underway as the parish moves closer to unveiling the renovated church to its congregation.

Warwood Data Center Proposal to Face Local Review Rather Than New State Framework

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Warwood Data Center Proposal to Face Local Review Rather Than New State Framework

WHEELING, W.Va. — A proposed data center development in Warwood is expected to remain primarily under the City of Wheeling’s review process rather than a new statewide framework being promoted for large-scale data center projects in West Virginia.

Gov. Patrick Morrisey recently outlined a series of principles aimed at what his administration describes as responsible development of hyperscale data centers across the state. The proposal addresses issues including statewide planning, protection of utility ratepayers and water resources, development standards and potential tax benefits for residents.

However, Morrisey indicated that the proposed Warwood project does not appear to fall under the state law governing qualifying large-scale data center developments.

That distinction could leave decisions surrounding the Warwood proposal largely in the hands of Wheeling officials.

The project has generated significant discussion among Warwood residents, particularly over potential impacts involving water, electricity, noise, location and the proximity of the development to surrounding neighborhoods.

Morrisey said the state wants future qualifying projects to include protections addressing issues such as clean water, appropriate setbacks and community involvement. He also acknowledged that projects falling outside the state’s framework may not be subject to the same protections.

The Warwood proposal is planned for the former Centre Foundry property within Wheeling city limits. Representatives involved with the project previously described plans for a 10-megawatt data center along with a manufacturing component at the site.

Because of the project’s location and scope, its development will continue through applicable City of Wheeling review and approval processes.

The proposal remains under consideration as residents and city leaders continue discussing what the development could mean for Warwood and the surrounding community.

Questions Raised Over Animal Euthanasia at Hancock County Shelter

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Questions Raised Over Animal Euthanasia at Hancock County Shelter

HANCOCK COUNTY, W.Va. — Questions surrounding animal euthanasia at the Hancock County Animal Shelter are drawing attention after a social media post raised concerns about the number of animals euthanized since the Jefferson County Humane Society Foundation took over shelter operations in November 2025.

Shelter officials say 5.5% of animals entering their care have been euthanized, citing severe medical conditions, bite histories and significant behavioral deterioration among the reasons for those decisions.

According to information released by shelter officials, six of the euthanized dogs were strays, three were being held because of bite incidents and seven were described as suffering from “kennel craze.”

Kennel craze refers to behavioral deterioration that can occur when an animal remains in a shelter environment for an extended period. Officials say affected dogs can become increasingly anxious, withdrawn or aggressive.

The length of time some animals remained at the shelter has also become part of the discussion. Officials said approximately seven of the dogs that were eventually euthanized had spent more than a year at the facility, including one animal that remained there for 460 days.

Shelter representatives maintain euthanasia is considered only after other options have been attempted. Staff members reportedly meet each morning to review individual animals and develop plans involving enrichment, additional walks and time outside their kennels.

One case highlighted by officials involved a dog named Diamond, who spent 177 days at the shelter before being adopted. According to the shelter, Diamond later bit another dog in the home and was returned. Officials said she subsequently lunged at shelter employees.

Still, the disclosures have prompted questions from members of the community about whether more could be done to prevent animals from deteriorating during lengthy shelter stays and whether additional fostering, rescue transfers, behavioral intervention or other alternatives could be pursued before euthanasia.

The shelter reports a current live release rate of 94.2%, meaning the large majority of animals leave the facility alive. A 90% live release rate is commonly used as a benchmark by organizations identifying as “no-kill,” although that designation does not mean euthanasia never occurs.

The shelter’s longest current resident is Clarke, a 6-year-old Rottweiler mix who has reportedly spent 289 days waiting for a home.

The discussion now extends beyond the shelter’s overall release rate to the circumstances surrounding individual euthanasia decisions and what options are available for animals experiencing behavioral problems after extended periods in a kennel environment.

155th Jefferson County Fair Opens With New Facilities, Full Week of Events

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155th Jefferson County Fair Opens With New Facilities, Full Week of Events

JEFFERSON COUNTY, Ohio — The 155th Jefferson County Fair is officially underway, bringing a week of livestock shows, midway attractions and grandstand events to the fairgrounds.

Fair officials marked the beginning of this year’s festivities with a ribbon-cutting ceremony Monday, Aug. 17. Throughout the day, barns and livestock areas were busy as dozens of 4-H participants weighed in their animals and prepared for upcoming competitions.

One of the biggest additions this year is a new Show and Sale building donated by the family of John and Judy Parkinson. The facility features an upgraded sound system and LED lighting.

The investment follows several other improvements made at the fairgrounds in recent years, including a new rabbit barn and renovations to the beef barn.

Jefferson County Fair Board President Ray Hilderbrand said more than $500,000 has been invested in the three projects over the past two years, with the improvements funded through donations and grants rather than taxpayer dollars.

Fairgoers will also notice a new attraction on the midway. Lisko Amusements is bringing one of the largest Ferris wheels to appear at the Jefferson County Fairgrounds.

The grandstand schedule continues throughout the week, with a cheerleading competition planned for Thursday and a truck and tractor pull Friday.

Jeep and four-wheeler races are scheduled for Saturday before the fair concludes Sunday with the demolition derby.

The Jefferson County Fair is celebrating its 155th year in 2026.

Marshall County Deputies Increase School-Zone Patrols as Students Return This Morning

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Marshall County Deputies Increase School-Zone Patrols as Students Return This Morning

MARSHALL COUNTY, W.Va. — Students across Marshall County are returning to class this morning, and the Marshall County Sheriff’s Office is asking drivers to use extra caution as school buses and students return to area roads.

Deputies are expected to have an increased presence around schools, along bus routes and throughout school zones as the new school year gets underway.

Motorists are being reminded to watch posted school-zone speed limits and be prepared for additional traffic. Deputies will be monitoring for speeding, distracted driving and other unsafe behavior.

The Sheriff’s Office is also emphasizing the importance of stopping for school buses when their warning lights are activated. Drivers should never attempt to pass a stopped bus illegally or rush around buses as students are entering or leaving them.

Officials noted that children can be unpredictable around roadways. A student could turn around, drop something or unexpectedly step into the street, making a driver’s full attention especially important near bus stops and schools.

Drivers heading to John Marshall High School should also expect a new traffic pattern when entering the school this morning. Deputies will be in the area to help direct traffic as students, parents and staff adjust to the change.

Some congestion is expected during the first few days of school.

The Sheriff’s Office is encouraging drivers to allow additional travel time, stay off their phones and remain alert around buses, crosswalks and school zones as students return to class.

14 Charged in Alleged Cocaine Distribution Operation Connected to Penn State Fraternities

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STATE COLLEGE, Pa. — Fourteen people have been charged following an investigation into an alleged cocaine distribution network involving Penn State students and members of two off-campus fraternities.

Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday announced the charges Monday. According to the Attorney General’s Office, 13 of the defendants were Penn State students at or around the time of the alleged activity, which investigators say occurred during 2023 and 2024. A 14th defendant, the father of one of the students, is accused of tampering with evidence and interfering with the investigation.

Investigators identified Agostino Abbatiello, 24, of Westbury, New York, and Thomas Robinson as the alleged primary suppliers. Authorities say the two regularly traveled to Philadelphia and New York to obtain quantities of cocaine that were later distributed in the State College area.

Abbatiello remained at large when the charges were announced.

The investigation also involves the off-campus Delta Upsilon and Sigma Chi fraternity houses. Authorities allege cocaine was cut and packaged at the residences before being distributed to Penn State students.

The Attorney General’s Office further alleges that some fraternity pledges participated in preparing and packaging cocaine as part of their involvement with the organizations.

Mohammed Hurabi and Lars Zeepvat are among those facing felony charges that include corrupt organizations, conspiracy and dealing in proceeds of unlawful activity.

Robert Zanolla faces charges including felony conspiracy and criminal use of a communication facility.

Eight additional defendants — Liam Smith, Michael Brogno, Kaden Howe, Connor Hurleigh, Seth Beardsley, Kyle Ridpath, Daniel Price and Charles Wiseman — face misdemeanor charges involving possession and drug paraphernalia.

At least four of the defendants were current Penn State students when the charges were announced, according to the Attorney General’s Office.

Sunday described the alleged operation as a coordinated drug-trafficking network involving senior fraternity members, other fraternity members and pledges.

The investigation remains ongoing. All defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court

Appeals Court Rejects Challenges in Two Muskingum County Criminal Cases

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Appeals Court Rejects Challenges in Two Muskingum County Criminal Cases

ZANESVILLE, Ohio — The Fifth District Court of Appeals has upheld convictions and prison sentences in two separate Muskingum County criminal cases involving drug possession and thefts from vehicles.

The appeals were filed by Lindsey Y. Riley and Leeron Mayle, both of whom challenged decisions previously handed down by the Muskingum County Court of Common Pleas.

Riley’s case stemmed from a February 2024 incident when U.S. Marshals entered a Zanesville apartment with a resident’s permission while searching for fugitives. Riley and her boyfriend, Benjamin Hanning, were found in an upstairs bedroom where authorities discovered drugs and drug paraphernalia.

Testing identified substances including oxycodone, methamphetamine, fentanyl and alprazolam. Riley was subsequently charged with aggravated possession of drugs, possession of a fentanyl-related compound and illegal use or possession of drug paraphernalia.

Riley pleaded not guilty and took the case to a bench trial. She testified that the drugs belonged to her boyfriend and said she initially claimed ownership because she was afraid of him. The trial court ultimately found her guilty.

She received an indefinite prison sentence of five to 7½ years for aggravated possession, with sentences for the other offenses running concurrently. Riley was also charged in a separate drug case while the first case was pending and later pleaded guilty.

On appeal, Riley again challenged whether the drugs belonged to her and disputed the maximum jail sentences imposed for misdemeanor offenses. The three-judge appellate panel upheld the trial court’s judgment.

The second case involved a series of thefts from vehicles in a Zanesville hotel parking lot during September and October 2025.

Mayle and another person were accused of stealing property from vehicles. Mayle eventually pleaded guilty to three felony theft counts, one felony count of possession of criminal tools and related misdemeanor charges.

Although the parties jointly recommended a 24-month prison sentence, the trial court imposed 12 months for each of Mayle’s four felony counts and ordered the sentences to run consecutively, resulting in a total of four years in prison.

The court cited additional information about Mayle’s background and criminal history and noted that some of the stolen property included tools victims relied upon for their jobs. Restitution connected to the offenses exceeded $8,000.

Mayle appealed the length and consecutive nature of his sentences, but the Fifth District found no basis to overturn the trial court’s decision.

The appellate court ultimately affirmed the Muskingum County Court of Common Pleas judgments in both cases.

Break From the Rain: Nicer Weather Moves Into the Ohio Valley

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Break From the Rain: Nicer Weather Moves Into the Ohio Valley

OHIO VALLEY — After a stretch of storms and heavy rainfall, the Ohio Valley is expected to get a break from the soggy weather this week, with lower humidity, cooler temperatures and more sunshine in the forecast.

The first half of August has brought frequent rainfall across the region, with some communities recording measurable rain on more days than not. Parts of the area also experienced record rainfall during the past week.

Monday could still bring scattered showers and thunderstorms as a weak cold front moves through the region.

Conditions are expected to improve Tuesday, when residents should notice lower humidity and cooler temperatures. After a cooler start to the morning, more sunshine is expected throughout the afternoon.

Another weather system could bring isolated showers or thunderstorms Wednesday. However, precipitation is expected to be scattered rather than widespread, meaning some communities may remain dry.

A few lingering showers or storms will remain possible Thursday before another stretch of more pleasant weather arrives Friday.

Temperatures throughout much of the week are expected to remain comfortable for August, with daytime highs generally in the upper 70s. Overnight lows could fall into the upper 50s and lower 60s.

While rain has not disappeared from the forecast entirely, the overall pattern points toward a noticeably drier and more comfortable week for the Ohio Valley following the recent stretch of wet weather.

Two Critically Injured Following Explosion and House Fire in Ohio

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Two Critically Injured Following Explosion and House Fire in Ohio

PORTSMOUTH, Ohio — Two people were critically injured Sunday afternoon after an apparent explosion and fire caused extensive damage to a home in Portsmouth.

The Portsmouth Fire Department responded around 2:16 p.m. Aug. 16 to a residence on Circle Drive. When firefighters arrived, officials said the home showed significant damage consistent with an explosion, along with evidence of a fire inside.

Crews entered the residence and worked to extinguish fires in multiple rooms.

Firefighters later learned that two women had escaped from the home before crews arrived. Both had suffered critical injuries and required medical treatment.

The two victims were initially transported to Southern Ohio Medical Center before being transferred to Ohio State University Medical Center for additional care. One of the victims was flown to the Columbus hospital.

The circumstances surrounding the apparent explosion remain under investigation.

The Portsmouth Fire Department is investigating alongside the Ohio State Fire Marshal’s Office and the National Transportation Safety Board.

No additional information about the victims or their current conditions was immediately released.

Caleb Smail Memorial 5K Brings Community Together to Support Youth Services System

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Caleb Smail Memorial 5K Brings Community Together to Support Youth Services System

WHEELING, W.Va. — Runners and community members gathered in Wheeling on Sunday for the annual Caleb Smail Memorial 5K and Human Kindness Project fundraiser, continuing a tradition that has grown significantly since it began seven years ago.

The event was held Aug. 16 at Bethlehem Community Park, with proceeds benefiting Youth Services System.

Despite concerns about the weather, dozens of runners took part in the 5K. Organizers said participants traveled from well beyond the Ohio Valley, including from Martinsburg, West Virginia; Akron, Ohio; and even Madrid, Spain.

The fundraiser has grown into more than a road race. Sunday’s event included a cornhole tournament, live music, food trucks, raffles, a silent auction, bounce houses and face painting.

Organizers said the event was established just months after Caleb Smail’s death and has continued to expand with support from local businesses, vendors, donors, volunteers and community members.

Weather nearly forced organizers to cancel this year’s race, but conditions improved in time for runners to participate.

The annual event honors Smail’s memory while supporting the work of Youth Services System, a Wheeling-based organization serving children, young people and families throughout the region.

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