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Families Turn Out for Wellsburg Farmers Market and Kids Market

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Families Turn Out for Wellsburg Farmers Market and Kids Market

WELLSBURG, W.Va. — Families gathered in downtown Wellsburg on Wednesday as the Brooke County Farmers Market and Kids Market returned with local produce, handmade goods and activities for children.

The weekly event featured 20 vendors offering a variety of locally grown and produced items, giving residents an opportunity to support area farmers and small businesses.

Children attending the market received vegetable plants and reusable market bags while also enjoying activities such as face painting and treats throughout the evening.

Organizers say the market is designed to showcase the people, products and agricultural traditions that make Brooke County unique while creating a welcoming atmosphere for families.

City leaders also highlighted the event’s role in bringing residents together and encouraging community involvement in downtown Wellsburg.

The Brooke County Farmers Market is held every Wednesday from 4 to 7 p.m. on Charles Street and will continue throughout the season.

Ohio Supreme Court Hears Arguments Over Local Flavored Tobacco Bans

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Ohio Supreme Court Hears Arguments Over Local Flavored Tobacco Bans

COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Ohio Supreme Court is weighing a legal challenge that could determine whether cities have the authority to regulate flavored tobacco and nicotine products within their borders.

The case centers on a state law that prevents local governments from banning or restricting flavored tobacco products, including flavored nicotine items often marketed to younger consumers.

Several Ohio cities, including Columbus, previously adopted local regulations aimed at limiting access to flavored tobacco products in an effort to reduce youth vaping and nicotine use. State lawmakers later approved legislation prohibiting municipalities from enacting their own restrictions

Three Critically Injured in Columbus Apartment Fire

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Three Critically Injured in Columbus Apartment Fire

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Three people, including a child, were critically injured after a two-alarm fire tore through an apartment building on the east side of Columbus early Wednesday morning.

According to the Columbus Division of Fire, crews were dispatched to the 1900 block of Bairsford Drive shortly after 2 a.m. A Columbus police officer who was already in the area arrived within moments of the call and helped firefighters rescue several residents from the burning building.

Two adults and one child were transported to the hospital in critical condition.

Witnesses described a chaotic scene as flames quickly engulfed portions of the apartment complex. Neighbors and first responders worked together to help residents escape the building, while firefighters battled the blaze and searched for additional occupants.

A dog was also safely rescued from the apartments.

Fire officials said part of the first floor collapsed during the incident, creating challenges for crews as they worked to extinguish the fire and begin investigating its cause.

No firefighters were injured.

The American Red Cross is assisting approximately 25 residents who were displaced by the fire.

The cause of the blaze remains under investigation.

Woman Files Lawsuit Alleging Columbus Police Mishandled 1994 Rape Investigation

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Woman Files Lawsuit Alleging Columbus Police Mishandled 1994 Rape Investigation

COLUMBUS, Ohio — A woman has filed a federal lawsuit accusing Columbus police and other government entities of failing to properly investigate her reported rape for decades, ultimately contributing to the dismissal of criminal charges against the suspect.

The lawsuit, filed in U.S. District Court, identifies the woman as “Jane Doe” and alleges authorities failed to pursue investigative leads following the 1994 assault, despite information she provided about the man she believed was responsible.

According to court filings, DNA evidence was collected after the attack, but the lawsuit claims investigators did not take additional steps that may have identified the suspect earlier.

The suit also alleges inaccurate information was included in investigative records and argues that the handling of the case resulted in years of inaction.

The suspect was eventually identified through DNA evidence and arrested in 2024. However, the criminal case was dismissed in 2025 after a judge ruled the lengthy delay violated the defendant’s constitutional right to a speedy trial.

In addition to claims against the City of Columbus and Franklin County, the lawsuit alleges the victim’s identity was improperly disclosed following the dismissal of the criminal case.

The woman is seeking monetary damages and a jury trial. The City of Columbus has acknowledged the lawsuit and said it is reviewing the complaint. Officials have declined further comment while the litigation remains pending.

The allegations outlined in the lawsuit have not been proven in court.

Attendance Incentive Program Helps Cut Absenteeism at Southern Local Elementary

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Attendance Incentive Program Helps Cut Absenteeism at Southern Local Elementary

SALINEVILLE, Ohio — Southern Local Elementary School is seeing encouraging results after introducing attendance-based incentives designed to keep students engaged and in the classroom.

School officials say absenteeism has been reduced significantly since the program began, with the number of students missing large portions of the school year dropping compared to previous years.

Students in grades kindergarten through fifth are rewarded for strong attendance with special experiences such as visits from magicians, trips to local attractions, petting zoos and other activities throughout the school year.

According to school leaders, the incentives have helped students become more aware of their attendance and the importance of being present in class each day.

The Ohio Department of Education defines chronic absenteeism as missing 10 percent or more of the school year. School officials said reducing those numbers has been a key goal, as consistent attendance plays an important role in academic success and student development.

Educators say the program has not only improved attendance rates but has also encouraged students to take greater responsibility for their school participation while helping them stay on track academically.

Deputies Search for Suspect in Marmet Liquor Store Break-In

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Deputies Search for Suspect in Marmet Liquor Store Break-In

MARMET, W.Va. — Authorities are investigating an early morning break-in at a Kanawha County liquor store and are asking for the public’s help identifying a suspect.

According to the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office, the burglary occurred around 2:30 a.m. Wednesday at King Cut Rate Liquor & Tobacco on MacCorkle Avenue Southeast in Marmet.

Investigators say the suspect gained entry by throwing a rock through the store’s front glass doors before entering the business.

The suspect is described as a white male dressed in black clothing and wearing a face covering. Authorities said he was also carrying a luggage-style bag and appeared to be wearing a glove on his right hand, possibly to conceal identifying features.

Deputies reported that several packs of mini liquor bottles were stolen during the break-in. Investigators believe some of the merchandise may have been dropped while the suspect fled the area.

The Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate and is asking anyone with information about the incident to contact law enforcement.

Indian Creek Names Former Graduate as New Assistant Principal

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Indian Creek Names Former Graduate as New Assistant Principal

WINTERSVILLE, Ohio — Indian Creek High School has selected a familiar face to serve as its next assistant principal.

Matt Cowser, a 2010 graduate of Indian Creek High School, will step into the role beginning July 1. He succeeds Keith Swearingen, who is moving to Indian Creek Middle School as principal for the upcoming school year.

After graduating from Indian Creek, Cowser attended Heidelberg University before earning a bachelor’s degree in health and physical education from West Liberty University in 2015. He later completed additional educational credentials through Franciscan University.

Cowser’s connection to Indian Creek runs deep. His father, Stephen Cowser, previously served as both assistant principal and principal at the high school and currently serves as president of the Indian Creek Local Board of Education.

Returning to the school where he once walked the halls as a student, Cowser said he is looking forward to giving current students the same opportunities and support he received growing up in the district.

One of his primary goals as assistant principal will be addressing chronic absenteeism and improving student attendance.

Although his official start date is July 1, Cowser has already begun working with school administrators and staff as he prepares for the transition into his new role.

Governor Launches America250 Poetry Contest for West Virginians

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Governor Launches America250 Poetry Contest for West Virginians

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — West Virginians of all ages are being invited to showcase their creativity as part of a statewide poetry contest celebrating America’s upcoming 250th anniversary.

Governor Patrick Morrisey announced the launch of the America250 Poetry Contest, encouraging residents to submit original works reflecting on the history, heritage and values that have shaped both West Virginia and the nation.

Organizers say the contest is designed to give participants an opportunity to explore the people, places and events that have played a role in America’s story through the art of poetry.

Submissions will be accepted through June 24, with one winner selected to be recognized during West Virginia’s America250 celebration at the State Capitol in July.

The contest is open to residents across the state and is part of broader efforts to commemorate the 250th anniversary of American independence.

Additional information, contest rules and submission details are available through the America250 West Virginia program.

Wellsburg Duck Derby Returns This Weekend to Support Community Splash Pad

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Wellsburg Duck Derby Returns This Weekend to Support Community Splash Pad

WELLSBURG, W.Va. — Thousands of rubber ducks will take to the water this weekend as the Wellsburg Kiwanis Club hosts its fifth annual Duck Derby at the Wellsburg Wharf.

The family-friendly event is scheduled for Sunday and will feature more than just the signature duck race. Organizers have planned a full day of activities, including duck-themed games, a car show and a 5K race.

Funds raised through the event will support the club’s ongoing effort to bring a splash pad to Wellsburg. Organizers say they have already raised approximately $150,000 toward their $300,000 goal and expect this year’s event to generate significant additional support.

The proposed splash pad would provide a new recreational attraction for local families while also complementing tourism opportunities near the city’s waterfront and bike trail.

The Duck Derby will take place rain or shine, with the main race scheduled for 6 p.m.

Those wishing to participate can adopt a duck for $10 either online or before the race begins. Event organizers encourage residents and visitors alike to come out and support the fundraiser while enjoying a day of community activities.

Additional event information and duck adoptions are available through the Wellsburg Duck Derby website.

Florida Woman Pleads Guilty After Resort Pool Incident Involving Child

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Florida Woman Pleads Guilty After Resort Pool Incident Involving Child

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — A Florida woman has pleaded guilty to a child abuse charge stemming from an incident at a resort pool where authorities said she held a child underwater during a confrontation.

According to court records, 36-year-old Tiffany Griffith entered a guilty plea on June 3, avoiding a trial in the case.

Investigators say the incident occurred in December 2025 at the Gaylord Palms Resort in Kissimmee. Authorities allege a disagreement involving children playing in a swimming pool escalated after Griffith’s son became involved in a splashing incident with another child.

Police said Griffith entered the pool and confronted the other child before allegedly holding the 6-year-old underwater for several seconds.

Witnesses reported the incident to authorities, who later located Griffith at the resort and placed her under arrest.

She was initially charged with aggravated child abuse. However, court records show she ultimately pleaded guilty to a child abuse charge as part of the case.

As part of her sentence, Griffith received credit for time already served, along with 18 months of probation and 50 hours of community service. She was also ordered to complete anger management classes.

The case drew significant attention following the allegations, which prosecutors said involved the physical restraint of a young child during the poolside altercation.

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