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Ohio County Emergency Management Director Lou Vargo reflected on the flood response efforts following severe flooding on June 14 that caused significant devastation in the area. Vargo and his team logged over 156 hours each to coordinate rescue and recovery efforts, aided by local volunteers and donations. The flood resulted in the destruction of at least 37 homes and nine fatalities, marking one of the worst disasters in the county's history.
The Steubenville Saddle Club awarded two $500 scholarships during its July 27 horse show, honoring the legacy of long-time member Jack Carroll. Recipients Lindsey Best and Savannah Springer, both high school graduates, were recognized for their academic achievements and community involvement. The club plans to continue this scholarship tradition in future years.
Pete Alonso hit his 251st career home run on Monday, closing in on Darryl Strawberry's Mets record, but the Cleveland Guardians defeated the Mets 7-6 in 10 innings. The Guardians overcame a five-run deficit, with Gabriel Arias contributing a decisive three-run homer. Automatic runner Daniel Schneemann scored the winning run in the 10th inning after a fielding error.
Steubenville High School and Sycamore Youth Center will host a community blood drive on August 12, aiming to address the summer decline in blood donations. Donors can schedule appointments online or via phone, and those who donate by August 28 will receive a $15 e-gift card. The event seeks to support local healthcare needs as Type O and B negative blood are in high demand.
A Toronto woman received a 60-month prison sentence after pleading guilty to attempting to smuggle fentanyl into Jefferson County Jail. Tayonna Wade, 28, faced significant penalties for her actions, including the possibility of up to 36 months for each charge. The sentencing followed a plea agreement with the Jefferson County Prosecutor’s Office.
Isiah Kiner-Falefa's fielder's choice drove in the winning run as the Pittsburgh Pirates defeated the San Francisco Giants 5-4 on Monday night. The Pirates rallied from a 4-1 deficit, with Kiner-Falefa recording his fifth career walk-off RBI. Dauri Moreta earned the win by pitching a scoreless inning.
A public auction for the former Wellsburg Middle School attracted about 20 attendees but received no bids. The minimum bid was set at $250,000, and the building will continue to serve as an alternative school for local students.
Edison Local School District will revert to a paid meal program for the upcoming school year, citing financial sustainability issues after a previous federal program provided free meals. Superintendent Bill Beattie emphasized the need for this decision to maintain the food service program's stability and encouraged families to apply for free or reduced-price meals.
Federal officials approved West Virginia's request to end subsidies for sugary drinks under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Governor Patrick Morrisey emphasized the need for healthier choices, noting that 10% of SNAP purchases include soda. The waiver also allows the purchase of certain hot foods with SNAP benefits.
New Cumberland will increase its water and sewer rates following a city council vote. Water rates will rise from $12.44 to $16.17 per 1,000 gallons, while sewer minimum charges will go from $35.42 to $41.80. The new rates take effect 45 days after the decision.