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

Protect vulnerable family, friends during 4th of July

Elkins, WV – When deciding the best way for you and your family to celebrate the 4th of July, Randolph-Elkins Health Department (REHD) Director of Threat Preparedness Bonnie Woodrum, RN, MSN, CIC, says this is not the time to change your mind set about being cautious. “We understand people want to celebrate, just please be smart about how you do it,” said Woodrum.

She offered the following guidelines when planning weekend activities.

  • Get-togethers and barbecues should be held outside if possible with social distancing rules in place by limiting the number of people, placing tables and chairs six feet apart and asking guests to wear face coverings.
  • Designate a single person for the barbequing and serving – this limits the number of people handling or sharing utensils.
  • Consider single serve options for food items like chips, drinks, desserts and other.
  • Encourage frequent handwashing before and after meals.  Disinfect commonly touched surfaces like tables, chair arms, counters and trashcans.  Wear gloves when cleaning up the space and dispose of the gloves after use.
  • The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also recommends writing down the guests in attendance in case it is needed for contract tracing in the future.

Covid is transmitted through contaminated droplets in the air, and according to Woodrum, prolonged face-to-face conversations can spread the virus.  “Think about the risk, not just for yourself, but for others,” said Woodrum.

“If you are healthy you may be more willing to take small risks when having a nice time at a private gathering.  Putting yourself at higher risk exposes everyone you come in contact with later, said Woodrum.

With coronavirus activity still present, vigilance remains the best defense in keeping families and communities safe. Visit the CDC website for more information about preventing the spread of COVID-19 at www.cdc.gov.

Share this story:

Local Businesses

RECENT Stories

River Fest returns in August with free food, live music and paddling for the whole community

River Fest will return August 23 with free food, live music, beginner kayaking, and community activities for all ages, aiming to attract 200 attendees and celebrate the Buckhannon River in memory of its founder, April Keating.

On the City of Buckhannon calendar: June 30 – July 4, 2025

Buckhannon has announced upcoming public meetings, July 4th holiday closures, a community celebration and fireworks, yard waste collection dates, and information on utility payments and city service requests available online.

Buckhannon City Council Agenda: July 3, 2025

The Buckhannon City Council has released the agenda for its upcoming meeting scheduled for July 3, 2025.

Deloris Y. Jack

Deloris Jack, 91, a homemaker and Lifetime Member of the Upshur County E.M.S., passed away June 28, 2025, leaving behind her son, sister, extended family, and a legacy of community service.

WVU Medicine St. Joseph’s Hospital’s Director of Nursing earns Nurse Executive Board certification

Karla Tucker, Director of Nursing at WVU Medicine St. Joseph’s Hospital, has earned the prestigious Nurse Executive-Board Certified credential, reflecting her leadership and commitment to excellence in nursing practice and patient care.

WVWC’s new director of technical theatre finds passion in set design

Boyd Wolz, an experienced set designer and educator with credits in theatre, film, and television, has been appointed as West Virginia Wesleyan College’s new director of technical theatre.

Upshur County Public Library awarded $20K AARP grant to launch digital literacy classes for older adults

The Upshur County Public Library has received a $20,000 AARP grant to offer free digital literacy classes for adults 50 and older, providing computer skills training both at the library and via a mobile classroom.

Barbara Ann Dawson

Barbara Ann Dawson, 85, a longtime French Creek Elementary reading aide and active church and Eastern Star member, died June 27 at home, survived by her three sons, grandchildren, and many loved ones.

Upshur County Commission Special Meeting Agenda: July 1, 2025

The Upshur County Commission has released the agenda for its special meeting scheduled for July 1, 2025.