Ohio Sees Surge in Early Voting Turnout
More than 42,000 Ohioans cast ballots Tuesday, the first day of in-person early voting. According to the Ohio Secretary of State’s Office, turnout across 77 counties increased by 138% compared to the first day of early voting in 2022.
Steubenville Council Member Opposes Recreation Center Coach’s Schedule Change
Steubenville City Council member Royal Mayo is opposing a proposed schedule change for Henry Fleming, a coach at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Center. Mayo says the change would reduce Fleming’s time working with children by half. Recreation Director Don Patterson says he has met with Fleming and is willing to discuss the matter further.
Ohio Lawmakers Propose New E-Bike Restrictions
Two proposed bills in Ohio would establish additional regulations for electric bicycles, including mandatory helmets for all riders and a prohibition on children younger than 14 operating them. The proposals would also require registration and a driver’s license or learner’s permit for certain high-speed e-bikes. Speed limits would be set at 10 mph on shared-use paths and 5 mph on sidewalks, with additional penalties for violations.
West Virginia Regulators Review Verizon’s Landline Transition
The West Virginia Public Service Commission is reviewing Verizon’s plans to discontinue traditional copper telephone service and transition customers to fiber technology through its Frontier operations. The commission has told federal regulators that customers must continue receiving reliable service and that a $60 million fund should be used to maintain service regardless of the technology involved.
Washington Avenue Bridge Reopening Celebration Announced in Wheeling
Wheeling will celebrate the reopening of the Washington Avenue Bridge on Sunday, October 18. Festivities begin at 3 p.m. with food trucks, live music and a children’s activity area. A ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for 6 p.m., with the Wheeling Park High School Marching Band participating in the celebration.
Ohio County Commission Delays Decision on Ritchie Elementary Playground
The Ohio County Commission has postponed a decision on providing financial assistance for a playground at Ritchie Elementary School in Wheeling. Commissioners say they want to explore potential funding sources and gather additional input before proceeding. Ritchie Elementary remains the county’s only public elementary school without a playground.
WVU Extension Launches Survey on Volunteer Firefighter Shortage
West Virginia University Extension is seeking input on the challenges facing volunteer fire departments across the state. The initiative follows a decline in volunteer firefighter participation over the past two decades. Residents and firefighters can complete a 30-minute survey available through WVU Extension’s website, with findings expected to be shared with state lawmakers.
East Liverpool Ghost Walk Adds Chili Cook-Off
The Lou Holtz Hall of Fame in East Liverpool is adding a chili cook-off to its annual Ghost Walk on Friday, October 16. The event begins at 6:30 p.m. and features six spooky stops, followed by chili tasting and voting for a winner. Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door.
