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John Larch a Quiet Hero in the Ohio Valley

Editorials

Every community has them: the people that work behind the scenes, quietly moving mountains without ever asking for recognition. They are the ones who volunteer after work, who notice what’s missing and decide to fix it, who serve others not because they want to be seen — but because they believe it’s the right thing to do. One of those people is John Larch. Larch never served in the military, and he is the first to deflect credit for Wheeling’s Military Banner Program. Ask him about it, and he’ll point to Mayor Dennis Magruder, to the city’s Operations department, to the ...

Safeguard Freedoms and Focus on Drug Treatment

Editorials

Brooke County officials find themselves at a crossroads familiar to many communities across West Virginia — deciding how to spend money secured through settlements with opioid manufacturers and distributors. The intention behind those funds was clear: to help repair the devastation the opioid epidemic has wrought on our region and its families, its workforce, and its way of life. Yet, as discussions late last month before the Brooke County Commission reveal, the temptation to divert those treatment and recovery dollars toward law enforcement remains strong. The Brooke County ...

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 ...