Photo by Shelley Hanson Enjoying time in the Centre Market this week are, from left, Maria Goudy of Wheeling, Heston Smith of Seattle, Washington, and Hayden Smith of Wheeling. Goudy hopes for a more calm 2026, while Heston Smith plans to make a vision board, and Hayden Smith hopes to try more new things and develop a healthy routine in 2026.

WHEELING — For many people a new year means new hopes, plans and dreams, and some Ohio Valley residents shared this week what’s on their minds for 2026.

Follansbee resident Teena Smithbauer is hoping for the nation to unify once again in the new year.

“I hope the country gets back together and is united again. I want to see common sense prevail,” she said. “I think we will under (President) Trump,” she said.

Smithbauer also hopes to see gasoline prices continue to decrease, which she anticipates will lead to the lowering of costs of certain goods and services.

Wheeling resident Maria Goudy, who was shopping in the Centre Market, is hoping for a more relaxed 2026.

“Just calm. Just be more calm,” she said.

Wheeling resident Hayden Smith, who is Goudy’s boyfriend, said he hopes to be more open to trying new things in the new year.

“And find a good routine, a healthy routine,” he added.

Smith’s brother, Heston Smith of Seattle, Washington, and a native of Morgantown, said he hopes to inspire himself by doing a vision board for 2026. It will include photos, mottos and more.

Wheeling resident McKenzie Rodgers has big hopes and dreams for 2026:

“Reverse the aging process. Spend no money and get healthy,” she said.

Josh Varner, a Wheeling resident and deputy with the Ohio County Sheriff’s Department, is hoping for motorists to “drive the speed limit” in the new year. And, personally, he would like to learn the French language.

“In high school I had to learn it … but I would love to learn it in the new year, to go outside the norm,” he said, noting most people learn how to speak Spanish as a second language.