#upperohiovalley

[ledenews]

City of Wheeling Offers Tips to Help Residents Avoid Frozen Pipes

WHEELING, W.VA. – With a stretch of bitterly cold weather in the forecast for the area, the City of Wheeling is reminding residents to take steps to prevent frozen water lines and the problems they can cause. Water Superintendent Lori Siburt said freezing temperatures can quickly lead to blocked or burst pipes, especially in vulnerable areas of the home. “Any pipe exposed to cold air is at risk, including those in basements, garages, along exterior walls or even inside kitchen and bathroom cabinets,” Siburt said. “When temperatures drop this low, it doesn’t take long for water to freeze and create serious issues.” Siburt noted that one of the most effective ways to reduce the chance of freezing is to allow water to flow slowly through the pipes. “For homes that have experienced frozen lines in the past, we recommend keeping a small, steady stream of water running, about the size of a pencil,” she explained. “That movement helps prevent ice from forming and can save homeowners from costly repairs.” She added that taking preventative action now can protect water meters and service lines while avoiding unnecessary service disruptions. “Letting water run just a little can make a big difference during extreme cold,” Siburt said. “It’s a simple precaution that can help residents avoid damage and the inconvenience of frozen pipes.” The City of Wheeling urges residents to follow these precautions as temperatures fall. For additional guidance or questions, residents may contact the City of Wheeling Water Department at [phone]. Read the full article

[ledenews]

The Changing Face of a Hometown – In Photos – Vol. 4

It started here in Wheeling, believe it or not, back in the 1940s. That’s when people started leaving the Friendly City for opportunity across the Ohio River. There were 60,659 residents in Wheeling in 1930, and little by a lot since, the city’s population has dipped below 27,000 for the first time in 150 years. And when that takes place, the tax base shrinks, changes take place, decay threatens safety, crime increases, and government kicks cans down the road over and over again. Thankfully, efforts have been made by both the private and public sectors over the past few decades to bridge the region’s Rust Belt era to a still undefined but developing resurrection.One significant advantage Wheeling will have is, by the end of 2025, the state will have spent more than $360 million on infrastructure makeovers to the bridges and ramps along Interstate 70, to the Wheeling Suspension Bridge, and on the current $32 million streetscape in the downtown.This retaining wall along 14th Street is what supports Lind Street in East Wheeling, and it appears to need attention from the City of Wheeling.“Everyone knows downtown Wheeling will never be the retail area it once was because that’s not what downtown are these days,” said Erikka Storch, a former state lawmaker who was the Chamber of Commerce president during the 2010s. “The interstate work was long overdue, and the project on the Suspension Bridge was on the schedule for eight years until it finally took place because of the tour bus incident.“Even though the streetscape was delayed a couple of times because of the city, it’s still going to make a very positive difference in our downtown, and that’s very exciting to me. I can’t wait to see it for myself and I’m sure a lot of other people feel the same way,” she said. “I just know I’m thankful for the vision of former mayor Andy McKenize. If he didn’t see what was possible, and then make the deal with the state, who knows where’d we be today.”Another advantage, ironically, will be delivered by destruction.Despite the Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing by the electric scooter company in December, the Bird vehicles have remained available in many areas of the city.The $7 million demolition of the OVMC campus officially started nine days ago with crews starting with the Northwood and Hillcrest buildings. The plan calls for both of the former nurse’s quarters to be taken down next, and then the South and East buildings and the Education and Administration structure will follow.The West Tower, home of the general hospital and its EMSTAR unit until the sudden closure in late September 2019, is last on general contractor F.R. Bienke’s razing list.“It’s going to be a gradual process because of how large the campus is, and because of the removal of the materials that have to be moved away,” explained Bob Herron, Wheeling’s city manager since 2001. “The asbestos removal has taken place, and now the company will go one building at a time. It’s going to take some time.“But after the demolition, WVU (Health System) will begin the construction of the regional cancer center, so that’s the good news,” he said. “We’re also demolishing the parking garage on Chapline (Street), so a lot is happening in that area right now.”The Christmas Store at the Teacher's Store in Center Market is conducting its final clearance sale. and will close for good in the near future.The view from this open lot in Center Wheeling offers a look at what's taken place thanks to the population decline in a once prominent neighborhood.The south market house at Centre Market is home to several eateries, including Coleman's Fish Market, Tito's on the Market, Michael's Beef House, and Valley Cheese.Vegetation has caused much of the tunnel's eastside facade to become stained and unattractive since its last cleaning in 2009.The recent frigid evenings have kept families indoors and playing board games such as this classic. The number of venues offering live music has declined, but there still are several offering local performers on Friday and Saturday evenings.When Wesbanco Bank constructed its headquarters in downtown Wheeling back during the late 1970s, it changed the city's skyline forever. Despite the continued

[ledenews]

An OPEN LETTER to … You … and We’re Even Saying Please …

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN:Please …Take time to understand, learn something new, don’t litter, hug your kids, eat your vegetables, fly The Flag, check on your folks, sing your song, support free speech, celebrate someone’s success, follow the rules, make a wish, don’t raise a bully, trying something new, tell a joke, flip your hair with confidence, don’t ignore need, mentor the young, check on your folks, be the good guy, wait for a break in the action, ask questions, look both ways, and use your turn signals.Please …Know your rights, wear a helmet, stop dropping public F-bombs, cheer for children, don’t put our lives in danger, stick up for yourself, talk it out, read the directions, laugh out loud, refuse racism, assist lost strangers, wash your hands, tell a joke, feel the rain, help traditions continue, respect law enforcement, fight to live, wave back, go to the beach, clean your guns, quit smoking, hug your family and friends, be proud of yourself, don’t ever litter, have compassion, report crime, respect your elders, and for crying out loud, zipper merge.Please …Be proud of yourself, pray to your God, defend your rights, don’t drive distracted, compliment others, mentor the young, congratulate others, work hard, insist on inclusion, try something new, stop hurting others, make a wish, be an educated voter, hold government accountable, say please, live in reality, cover your sneeze, don’t send acronym texts, clean your child’s mess in restaurants, support local business, stop hurting others, support free speech, dance your dance, and play more cowbell.And please share and dream and play and listen and love and care and apologize and forgive. And please, be kind, too.Sincerely,Your Friends

[ledenews]

Hydrant Flushing/Testing to Occur on Wheeling Island Beginning Wednesday

WHEELING, W.Va. - The Wheeling Water Department will be flushing and testing hydrants on Wheeling Island beginning Wednesday, June 17. Residents may see discolored water. Please run cold water until it clears. Flushing/testing is expected to last several weeks. Read the full article

[ledenews]

Oglebay Good Zoo Names Amy Rutherford Vice President and Zoo Director

WHEELING, W.Va. — Oglebay Good Zoo has announced the appointment of Amy Rutherford as the Vice President and Director of the zoo, bringing more than 15 years of leadership experience in zoological education, conservation engagement, and organizational development to the role. Rutherford joins Oglebay Good Zoo following leadership positions with several nationally recognized zoological organizations, including the Audubon Nature Institute in New Orleans, the Birmingham Zoo, and the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA). Most recently, she served as Vice President for Learning & Engagement and Managing Director of the Audubon Louisiana Nature Center at Audubon Nature Institute. In this role she oversaw guest engagement, education programs, ambassador animals, and volunteers across the Audubon Zoo and Audubon Aquarium & Insectarium and led overall operations and strategy for the Nature Center. “We are thrilled to welcome Amy Rutherford to the Oglebay team,” said Bob Peckenpaugh, President and CEO of the Wheeling Park Commission. “Amy brings an outstanding combination of leadership, conservation expertise, and guest engagement experience to the Good Zoo. Her passion for wildlife education and community connection aligns perfectly with our mission, and we are confident she will continue building on the Zoo’s momentum and impact.” Rutherford began her zoo career as an education specialist at the Smithsonian National Zoo before spending a decade with AZA leading education and professional development programs for zoos and aquariums across North America and globally. During her tenure, she helped launch AZA’s Executive Leadership Development Program and contributed to major field-wide initiatives, including the Saving Animals From Extinction (SAFE) program and updating diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion policies and practices.    A native of Canton, Ohio, Rutherford also has deep family ties to West Virginia and says Oglebay Park Resort has long held a special place in her professional journey. “In my role at AZA leading the professional development program, I came to Oglebay once or twice a year for courses over my decade of work there,” Rutherford said. “Oglebay holds an important place of shared history and experience for the zoo and aquarium community, and it’s a privilege to help shape the Good Zoo’s future.” Rutherford said one of her top priorities will be supporting the continued evolution of the Good Zoo, including the development of the new Gary E. West Pridelands habitat and lodging experience. “It is an honor to step into the Zoo Director role at Oglebay Good Zoo, and I am thrilled for the opportunity,” Rutherford said. “We have a strong and dedicated team already making an impact for wildlife locally and globally. I look forward to continuing to grow the zoo’s role as a destination for conservation, education, and memorable family experiences.” Under Rutherford's leadership, Oglebay Good Zoo will continue inspiring meaningful connections between people, wildlife, and the natural world while serving as a cornerstone of the Oglebay experience. For more information about Oglebay Good Zoo, visit oglebay.com/good-zoo or follow Oglebay Good Zoo on social media. Read the full article

[ledenews]

U.S. Attorney Honors Retiring Brenda Miller with Distinguished Service Award

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey has presented Ohio County Circuit Clerk Brenda Miller with the “Distinguished Service Award” in recognition of her decades of dedication to Ohio County and the State of West Virginia.

“Brenda has dedicated her career to public service and has given much of her time and talents to the judicial system as Ohio County Circuit Clerk,” said U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey. “I am honored to present her this award, and I am grateful to call her a colleague and a friend.”

Miller will retire later this year after 28 years as Circuit Clerk. Throughout her tenure, she has earned a reputation for leadership, professionalism, and a deep commitment to strengthening the administration of justice in West Virginia.

She has served on numerous statewide committees, including the State Elections Committee and the Legislative Committee. The West Virginia Supreme Court has also appointed her to several key groups, such as the Circuit Court Liaison Committee—where she represents the nine Northern Panhandle counties—the Regional Fatality Review Board, where she has served for more than 15 years, and the Access to Justice Committee, where she is one of only two circuit clerks selected statewide.

Miller also served as President of the West Virginia Association of Counties from 2015 to 2016, representing 444 county-elected officials, including circuit clerks, county clerks, assessors, prosecutors, sheriffs, and county commissioners.

U.S. Attorney Harvey presented the award during the annual West Virginia Association of Counties dinner at Oglebay’s Wilson Lodge.

[ledenews]

U.S. Attorney Honors Retiring Brenda Miller with Distinguished Service Award

WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey has presented Ohio County Circuit Clerk Brenda Miller with the “Distinguished Service Award” in recognition of her decades of dedication to Ohio County and the State of West Virginia. “Brenda has dedicated her career to public service and has given much of her time and talents to the judicial system as Ohio County Circuit Clerk,” said U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey. “I am honored to present her this award, and I am grateful to call her a colleague and a friend.” Miller will retire later this year after 28 years as Circuit Clerk. Throughout her tenure, she has earned a reputation for leadership, professionalism, and a deep commitment to strengthening the administration of justice in West Virginia. She has served on numerous statewide committees, including the State Elections Committee and the Legislative Committee. The West Virginia Supreme Court has also appointed her to several key groups, such as the Circuit Court Liaison Committee—where she represents the nine Northern Panhandle counties—the Regional Fatality Review Board, where she has served for more than 15 years, and the Access to Justice Committee, where she is one of only two circuit clerks selected statewide. Miller also served as President of the West Virginia Association of Counties from 2015 to 2016, representing 444 county-elected officials, including circuit clerks, county clerks, assessors, prosecutors, sheriffs, and county commissioners. U.S. Attorney Harvey presented the award during the annual West Virginia Association of Counties dinner at Oglebay’s Wilson Lodge. Read the full article

[ledenews]

Street Light Replacements in Elm Grove to Alter Traffic on National Road

Ohio County, WV – A portion of US 40 (National Road), in Elm Grove, will be restricted to one lane, beginning on Friday, June 19, 2026, through mid-July, for street light replacements.  Traffic will be maintained by flaggers. Motorists are advised to slow down and expect slight delays. Inclement weather or unforeseen circumstances could change the project schedule. Read the full article