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Nearly 30 former Ohio lawmakers who reinstated the death penalty 44 years ago now advocate for its abolition. Twenty-seven members of the 114th General Assembly signed a letter supporting Senate Bill 133, which aims to end capital punishment, citing the system's flaws and unintended consequences. Attorney General Dave Yost recently criticized the costly and ineffective capital punishment system while promoting a bill for nitrogen hypoxia executions.
Follansbee Council plans to cease trash collection from business Dumpsters and raise fees for bulk trash pickups to address a sanitation department deficit. The department reported a $47,000 loss in the first quarter of the fiscal year. City officials are exploring alternative waste management solutions, including potential privatization.
Brooke County school officials received a $225,000 bid for the former Wellsburg Middle School from Wheeling businessman Ed Hinebaugh. The bid must be approved by the Brooke County school board, which will meet on Monday to discuss the proposal. Hinebaugh and his wife plan to collaborate with the community to determine the building's future use, emphasizing children-focused activities.
Wellsburg officials inaugurated a new tourist attraction, the Almost Heaven swing, overlooking the Ohio River on Monday. Handcrafted by Nicholas County students, the swing aims to enhance local tourism and features a selfie station encouraging social media engagement. This initiative is part of a broader effort to promote Wellsburg's historic district and its scenic views.
The Steubenville Art Association has named sisters Nancy Wright and Joyce Beatty as the featured artists for October at the Historic Fort Steuben Visitor Center. Both artists have a strong background in painting and have received accolades for their work, contributing significantly to the local art community.
The Steubenville High School Class of 1969 celebrated its 56th reunion on October 3-4, gathering numerous alumni. Attendees included notable figures such as Cathy Taylor O’Donnell and Jeannette Hawkins, highlighting the strong community ties among graduates.
Harding Middle School launched a student services check-in link to assist students with mental health and academic support. The initiative, developed by social worker Shay Greiner and eighth-grader Quinn Handzus, allows students to request help 24/7 through Google Classroom. Over 80 students have already utilized the service, which aims to provide discreet access to support.
CommonSpirit Health and UPMC signed a letter of intent to negotiate the integration of Trinity Health System into UPMC. This partnership aims to enhance local healthcare services, building on over 20 years of collaboration in areas like cancer treatment and orthopedic care. Discussions will continue over the coming months to finalize the agreement, pending regulatory approvals.
Catholic Central boys’ soccer team defeated Monroe Central 6-0 in the Ohio Division V Eastern District Sectional Co-Final, advancing to the district semifinals. Head coach Steve Kopcha emphasized the importance of scoring first, and Santi Descazlo led the Crusaders with two goals.
Wellsburg Council initiated its pursuit of inclusion in West Virginia's Home Rule program to address funding shortfalls. The proposed plan includes a 1 percent sales tax, contingent on reducing local business taxes, while a public hearing is scheduled for Nov. 12. Council also discussed the potential for an additional monthly meeting, though opinions on its necessity varied among members.