County commission officially approves health department’s increases in permit, service fees

The state Republican Executive Committee voted to close the party’s primary ballot beginning in 2026, meaning that unaffiliated voters will not be able to select a Republican ballot during the upcoming election. They can still select the Democrat or nonpartisan ballots.

Jeffrey Phares, owner of four north-central West Virginia cemeteries, pleaded guilty to wire fraud after taking payments meant for grave markers and using the money for himself.

Colonial Arts Center Gallery’s Upshur County Youth Arts Exhibition runs through April 11, featuring multi-media artwork from local students from elementary through high school. Vote for your favorites, and stop by the April 10 reception (4–7 p.m.) for free caricatures by J.R.

Flu season is lingering into spring, and WVU Medicine urges continued precautions as West Virginia saw a major spike in flu-related ER visits in January.

Meet Democratic primary candidates April 1, 6–8 p.m. at Pretty Peonies Parlor in Buckhannon, as Upshur County Democratic Women host a meet-and-greet with Q&A and time to mingle. Light refreshments provided; attendees can hear from several state and U.S. House candidates.

Spring has turned WVU Potomac State’s Malone and Gustafson farms into a bustling “maternity ward,” with 20 calves and 25 goat kids already born—and more due through April 11.