Route 20 through downtown Buckhannon is expected to close overnight beginning in mid-September for work to extend the courthouse-area turn lane. Two-way traffic will continue during the day.
Retired Circuit Judge Thomas H. “Tom” Keadle, who served Lewis and Upshur counties for 28 years, has died. A Marine veteran and former state trooper, Keadle was remembered for his distinguished public service and lasting community impact.
The latest Buckhannon Banter rounds up events, activities and community updates from around Upshur County and beyond.
Weaverland Disaster Services is helping Upshur County residents clean up after the July 21 floods — and their work won’t stop there. The church-affiliated program expects to work through March, rebuilding homes for families in need.
Bella Nottingham and Mitchell Whitley are the Hank Ellis All-Stars for Aug. 17-23. Nottingham made 24 saves in a 1-1 soccer draw, while Whitley led B-U at the St. Mary’s Invitational with a three-minute improvement.
Wesleyan announced four new programs to make the Buckhannon-based private college more affordable: a Tuition Lock Guarantee, the Home Among the Hills Program, Wesleyan Promise Plus and the Access Advantage Program to help students access scholarships, grants and other aid.
The latest Buckhannon Banter rounds up events, activities and community updates from around Upshur County and beyond.
Upshur County residents should report flood-related stream debris blockages to the Tygarts Valley Conservation District at 304-457-3026. Assessments require property owner permission, and culverts or other man-made drainage structures are not eligible.
West Virginia Wesleyan’s Bobcats were picked seventh in the 2026 MEC men’s golf preseason poll. Defending champion Charleston topped the rankings, while the conference championship is set for Oct. 4-6 at Stonewall Resort.
West Virginia Wesleyan was picked ninth in the 2026 MEC women’s golf preseason poll. Defending champion Charleston topped the 10-team rankings with nine first-place votes as the season begins Sept. 2.
The Jackson’s Mill Jubilee pie contest returns Sept. 5, 2026, with adult and youth divisions, cash prizes and Best of Show honors. Entries featuring West Virginia-grown fillings and homemade crusts will be accepted from 2 to 3 p.m.
Buckhannon-Upshur weathered Parkersburg’s relentless attack to earn a 1-1 season-opening draw. Rylen Carlyle’s penalty tied the match before halftime, while Bella Nottingham made 24 saves to preserve the result.
West Virginia Wesleyan College Softball will host its 2026 ID Camp on Saturday, Oct. 3, in Buckhannon. The $50 camp includes admissions information, a campus tour, lunch and softball instruction; registration and waivers are due Sept. 29.
Buckhannon-Upshur Middle School opened its 2026 cross-country season with strong runs at the St. Marys Invitational. The boys placed fourth, the girls finished 15th, and Felix Stump and Audrey Johnston each earned seventh-place finishes.
See the agenda for the Upshur County Commission meeting on August 27, 2026, including the items set for discussion and action.
Community Bulletin
Fred W. Eberle Technical Center in Buckhannon is enrolling students in its commercial driver’s license (CDL) training program, an accelerated course that can be completed in five to seven weeks. Both daytime and limited evening sessions are available.
Christine Ann Kalafat, formerly of Buckhannon and most recently of Bridgeport, WV, passed away after suffering from a series of strokes and other ailments. She was a devoted mother and grandmother remembered for her broad smile, sharp wit, and spirited personality.
Stephen David Randall, 77, of Buckhannon, passed away on August 20, 2026. A sailor, entrepreneur, and devoted family man, he lived with curiosity, adventure, and generosity.
