Buckhannon Banter: Get the local lowdown for August 19, 2026
The latest Buckhannon Banter rounds up events, activities and community updates from around Upshur County and beyond.
Top Stories
Buckhannon board advances proposal to replace Main Street flower beds
The Buckhannon Consolidated Public Works Board backed a proposal to replace deteriorating Main Street flower beds. It also authorized up to $3,500 for a new fall flower display.
Hodgesville Elementary more than doubles reading proficiency in first year under state improvement designation
Hodgesville Elementary saw big gains in reading and math proficiency in its first year under a state improvement designation. Principal Shannon Lewis walked the school board through the plan driving the improvements and the obstacles still in the way.
Buckhannon Banter: Get the local lowdown for August 18, 2026
The latest Buckhannon Banter rounds up events, activities and community updates from around Upshur County and beyond.
Recent
Baisden encouraged as young Bucs continue to develop
Buckhannon-Upshur coach Sloan Baisden is encouraged by his young team’s steady growth and grasp of the playbook. The Bucs will focus on sharpening details Friday at Braxton County before opening the season against Bridgeport.
West Virginia Wesleyan picked second in MEC preseason volleyball poll
West Virginia Wesleyan was picked second in the MEC South Division preseason volleyball poll, earning three first-place votes. Defending champion Charleston topped the South, while Wheeling led the North ahead of the Aug. 27 season opener.
State advances $400,000 to move flood-damaged Lewis County middle school to Jackson’s Mill
The state advanced $400,000 to temporarily relocate flood-damaged Robert L. Bland Middle School to WVU Jackson’s Mill. About 400 Lewis County students are expected to resume in-person learning after Labor Day.
West Virginia Wesleyan School of Nursing Class of 2026 achieves perfect NCLEX pass rate
West Virginia Wesleyan’s Class of 2026 nursing graduates achieved a 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate and employment rate. All have remained in West Virginia, providing nursing care in local communities.
Buckhannon City Council agenda: August 20, 2026
See the agenda for the Buckhannon City Council meeting on August 20, 2026, including the items set for discussion and action.
On the City of Buckhannon calendar: August 17-21, 2026
Buckhannon’s Aug. 17-21 calendar includes recycling pickup, public meetings and a free songwriters workshop. Residents can also find updates on flood recovery, FEMA assistance, fee waivers and park reopenings.
Janice J. Lantz
Janice J. Lantz, 91, of Roanoke, WV, died on August 17, 2026, at Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital in Weston. A former mail carrier and Tupperware consultant, she cherished her large family and never met a stranger.
Mary Edith “Sally” Young Waddell
Mary Edith “Sally” Young Waddell, 83, of Myrtle Beach, SC, and formerly of Buckhannon, WV, passed away peacefully at her home on April 12, 2026. A retired educator, she leaves a legacy of warmth, kindness, and love. A celebration of life will be held Saturday, August 22.
Community Bulletin
St. Joseph’s Hospital breast cancer support group meets the third Thursday of each month
The breast cancer support group WVU Medicine St. Joseph's Hospital started last October has become a monthly fixture in Salvati Hall, meeting the third Thursday of every month from 6 to 7:30 p.m. The gatherings are open to all patients and survivors.
Upshur County Sports Calendar
Upshur County’s Aug. 17-23 sports calendar features golf, soccer, volleyball, football and cross country. Highlights include Buckhannon-Upshur’s football scrimmage at Braxton County and Saturday’s home girls soccer match against Parkersburg.
Buckhannon Sanitary Board agenda: August 20, 2026
See the agenda for the Buckhannon Sanitary Board meeting on August 20, 2026, including the items set for discussion and action.