All schools in Upshur County will close at 1 p.m. today. All B-UHS sporting events today are canceled.

2023 Almost Heaven Governor’s Art Exhibition winners announced

The Best of Show was awarded to Olivia Miller's rendition of “Blackwater Falls."

CHARLESTON, WV — Gov. Jim Justice, along with the West Virginia Department of Tourism and the West Virginia Department of Arts, Culture and History (WVDACH), today announced the winners of the fifth annual Almost Heaven Governor’s Art Exhibition.

Designed to showcase student creativity and the arts, this year’s exhibition called for one-of-a-kind postcard designs illustrating a favorite West Virginia park (state, city or county). Selected postcard artwork will be used by the Department of Tourism to personally invite travelers to Almost Heaven.

Winners were chosen in three categories – Elementary School, Middle School and High School – and a Best of Show award. 

Elementary School winners are first place, “Simple Gristmill” by Ryan Lilly, Sophia Christian Academy, Raleigh County; second place, “West Virginia Postcard” by Tinley Williams, Ripley Elementary, Jackson County; and third place, “West Virginia Postcard” by Joy Sayre, Ripley Elementary, Jackson County.

Middle School winners are first place, “Blackwater Falls” by Olivia Miller, Andrew Jackson Middle School, Kanawha County; second place, “Seneca State Forest” by Ethan Floyd, Lincoln Middle School, Harrison County; and third place, “Beauty at Hawk’s Nest” by Charlotte Ray Lawson, Lincoln Middle School, Harrison County.

High School winners are first place, “Holly River Beauty” by Emmalea Warden, Point Pleasant Junior/Senior High School, Mason County; second place, “Kanawha State Forest” by Rhubarb Ronan, Huntington High School, Cabell County; and third place, “West Virginia’s Backyard” by Jocelyn Baker, Huntington High School, Cabell County. 

The Best of Show was awarded to Olivia Miller’s rendition of “Blackwater Falls.”

Winners will receive Blick Art Materials gift cards in the amounts of $100, $50 and $25.

An exhibition of all selected entries is on display outside the Governor’s Office at the State Capitol in Charleston.

Share this story:

Local Businesses

RECENT Stories

Gail Lovel Zickefoose

Gail L. Zickefoose, a dedicated educator, community leader, and beloved family man, passed away peacefully at age 83 after a long illness, leaving a legacy of service, kindness, and devotion to others.

Buckhannon City Council Agenda: July 15, 2025

The Buckhannon City Council released the agenda for its upcoming July 15, 2025, meeting.

Upshur County Relay for Life aims to raise $35,000 for cancer research on July 19

The Upshur County Relay for Life will host its annual event July 19 at Jawbone Park, aiming to raise $35,000 for cancer research while celebrating survivors and bringing the community together through activities and remembrance ceremonies.

WVU Medicine St. Joseph’s Hospital team members engage in statewide healthcare leadership program

Two WVU Medicine St. Joseph’s Hospital employees were honored by the West Virginia Hospital Association Leadership Academy, with Paula Cutright graduating and Matthew Scott selected for future participation in the statewide healthcare leadership program.

Post 7 drops outings to Doddridge and Morgantown

Buckhannon Post 7 suffered consecutive road defeats, falling 10-2 to Doddridge County and 11-0 to Morgantown Post 2, dropping their season record to 2-15.

Summer basketball league begins week two

The Upshur County Summer Basketball League entered its second week with standout performances from top scorers including Cory Harper, Dalton Hamrick, Cordell Nicola, and Vinny Snuffer leading their teams across multiple games.

Buckhannon City Council Special Meeting Agenda: July 15, 2025

The Buckhannon City Council has released the agenda for its special meeting scheduled for July 15, 2025.

BCT to light up the stage with Mamma Mia starting this weekend

Buckhannon Community Theatre will present the musical Mamma Mia! at the Colonial Arts Center starting July 12, featuring ABBA hits, lively performances, and a cast assembled from across the region.

St. Joseph’s Hospital supports healthy habits with mile-long midday walks

WVU Medicine St. Joseph’s Hospital has launched a noon walk initiative, inviting staff and community members to join daily one-mile walks to promote physical activity and improve health outcomes.