Buckhannon Banter: Get the local lowdown for March 27, 2025

Canaan Valley plunged to -27.4°F at 6 a.m. Jan. 31, the coldest reading in the lower 48 states and within 3.3 degrees of its record low. The high-elevation “bathtub” basin traps dense cold air, creating a frost pocket that can run nearly 20 degrees colder than nearby towns.

WVU School of Medicine researchers, backed by a three-year $1.4M National Eye Institute grant, are developing a gene therapy to treat PROM1-linked inherited blindness.

A federal judge ordered the release of two immigrants detained in West Virginia, blasting ICE for jailing them without evidence or proof they posed any threat. As Trump’s immigration crackdown reaches the state, more detainees are suing for release and more cases are expected.

Colonial Arts Center Gallery presents “My Photo Finish,” a solo show of Al Tucker’s West Virginia landscapes and nature photography, on view through Feb. 28. Meet Tucker at a free reception on Friday, February 6.

WVWC Theatre & Music brings Maltby and Shire’s witty, heartfelt revue “Closer Than Ever” to the Colonial Arts Center in downtown Buckhannon Feb. 12–14, with evening shows and a Saturday matinee. Tickets are $10 general admission, $5 for seniors, students, or WVWC ID.

Vandalia Health has named longtime fundraiser Laura McCall Executive Director of Philanthropy for its northern region.