Phillip Earl Smallwood

Gov. Patrick Morrisey ordered flags at West Virginia state facilities lowered to half-staff through Sept. 1 to honor Dolly Parton. He praised the late icon’s music, generosity and Imagination Library, which brought free books to children statewide.

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.

WVU alum Nesha Sanghavi turned frustration with women’s college apparel into Chicka-d, an eight-figure fashion brand. A pandemic pivot to elevated basics and custom wholesale designs helped the company double in a year and expand nationwide.

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.