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Thirteen Competitors Named for 2026 Dancing With the Ohio Valley Stars

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Thirteen Competitors Named for 2026 Dancing With the Ohio Valley Stars

WHEELING, W.Va. — Augusta Levy Behavioral Services has announced the 13 pairings scheduled to compete in the 2026 Dancing With the Ohio Valley Stars fundraiser.

The event will mark its 15th year and raise money for Augusta Levy’s programs and services for children, adolescents and adults with developmental, behavioral and emotional needs in the Ohio Valley.

The 2026 pairings are:

  • The Health Plan Vice President of Operations Derrick Fickling and Turn It Out Dance Academy instructor Payton Nickerson.
  • Jefferson Health Plan Sales and Marketing Executive Alicia Jordan and 2024 Dancing With the Ohio Valley Stars champion Tommy Haluscak.
  • Laughlin Memorial Chapel Executive Director Tessa Weisenborn and freelance dancer Michael Kittle.
  • Elena D’Angelo Santini and Studio MC Dance instructor Caleb Cooper.
  • Wheeling Nailers Director of Corporate Sales Max Fiedorczyk and Studio MC instructor Divine Roby.
  • Dr. Alex Pancake of Meridian Dental Specialists and Dynamic Dance Force owner Cassidy Hlad.
  • Our very own Big Willie 105.5 morning-show host and media consultant Greg McCullough and Dynamic Dance Force instructor Samantha Ebert.
  • Youth worker Jermaine Hans Lucious and Rysing Star Dance Academy instructor Tori Bumba.
  • Wheeling Newspapers Managing Editor Derek Redd and Studio MC Dance instructor Tiffany Scott.
  • Chef Adam and Studio MC Dance instructor Alex Mitchell.
  • Wheeling University professor and physical therapist Hugo Andreini III and Take a Bow Dance/Cheer Centre instructor Kendyl Brandon.
  • TSG Business Development Specialist Bob Means and Studio MC Dance instructor Lydia Boyd.
  • The Rev. Shannon Blosser and Arielettes Dance instructor Mary Coleman.

Participants will rehearse with their partners during the weeks before the competition. They will also participate in People’s Choice voting, with each dollar donated counting as one vote.

Proceeds from ticket sales, sponsorships and voting will support Augusta Levy Behavioral Services.

The couples are scheduled to perform before a live audience on Nov. 14.

Wetzel County Details Funding and Timeline for Proposed Consolidated School

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Wetzel County Details Funding and Timeline for Proposed Consolidated School

WETZEL COUNTY, W.Va. — Wetzel County Schools has released additional information about a proposed $160 million consolidated campus planned for Porter Falls.

The facility, named Wetzel Woodlands School, would combine the county’s two remaining high schools and serve students in grades six through 12. Plans include a career and technical education center, athletic facilities and an agriculture center.

According to the district, $155 million of the projected cost would be used for construction, while $5 million would cover expenses associated with moving into the new facility.

The district has set aside $39 million for the project and has spent nearly $7.5 million so far. That amount includes $4 million used to purchase the property in Porter Falls.

School officials plan to fund construction through a pay-as-you-go approach and are not proposing a bond issue. The district has cited anticipated natural gas development and continued growth in the county’s energy and business sectors as possible sources of future revenue.

Some residents have raised concerns about the project’s cost and how public money will be spent. Superintendent Cassandra Porter said the school board intends to manage taxpayer funding responsibly as planning continues.

A traffic study remains underway, and the district is working to establish a temporary stream crossing that would provide construction access to the site.

The earthwork portion of the project is expected to be advertised for bids in early 2027. District officials are targeting an opening sometime in 2030.

Public Asked to Help Locate Missing Brooke County Teen

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Public Asked to Help Locate Missing Brooke County Teen

BROOKE COUNTY, W.Va. — The public is being asked to help locate a missing juvenile from Brooke County.

A missing-person notice identifies the teenager as 15-year-old Cason Wood. He is described as approximately 5 feet, 6 inches tall and weighing about 115 pounds, with blond hair.

Cason was last seen in Brooke County. Information about when he was last seen, what he may have been wearing or the circumstances surrounding his disappearance has not been released.

Anyone who has seen Cason or has information about his location should contact the Brooke County Sheriff’s Department at 304-527-1430.

The information was current as of Sept. 10, 2026.

Two Detained Following High-Speed Pursuit Near Wellsville

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Two Detained Following High-Speed Pursuit Near Wellsville

WELLSVILLE, Ohio — Two people were detained Thursday afternoon after a traffic stop reportedly developed into a high-speed pursuit through the Wellsville area.

According to preliminary emergency radio traffic, an Ohio State Highway Patrol trooper attempted to stop a black Nissan Altima traveling 73 mph in a 55-mph zone on State Route 7.

The driver allegedly failed to stop, and speeds reportedly reached as high as 120 mph near Yellow Creek. The pursuit continued onto State Route 39 and several rural roads before returning to Route 7.

Troopers reported that the vehicle traveled through areas including 16 School Road, Oakridge Road, 10th Street Extension, McKee Road, Hibbetts Mill Road and State Route 45. A passenger was believed to be inside the vehicle during the pursuit.

The chase ended at approximately 4:24 p.m. after troopers used a pursuit intervention maneuver to stop the Altima. The driver and passenger were detained.

Radio traffic indicated that troopers found a white powdery substance while searching the driver. Authorities have not confirmed what the substance was or announced formal charges.

The driver was reportedly transported to jail, and the vehicle was inventoried. No injuries were immediately reported.

River News has not independently confirmed the details contained in the preliminary radio traffic. Additional information will be provided if an official report is released.

Semi and Jeep Involved in Harrison County Crash

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Semi and Jeep Involved in Harrison County Crash

HARRISON COUNTY, Ohio — Emergency crews responded to a crash involving a tractor-trailer and a Jeep late Friday morning on Upper Clear Fork Road near Unionvale-Kenwood Road.

The crash was reported around 11:14 a.m. near the railroad tracks. Preliminary reports indicated that the Jeep traveled over a hillside and a utility pole was broken during the collision.

A medical helicopter was initially placed on standby but was later canceled by crews at the scene. The condition of those involved has not been confirmed.

Two tow trucks were requested to recover the Jeep. The tractor-trailer was reportedly empty at the time of the crash.

Drivers should use caution in the area while emergency crews complete their work. The circumstances surrounding the collision remain under investigation.

River News Headlines: September 11, 2026

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River News Headlines: September 11, 2026

OHIO VALLEY — Wheeling will commemorate the 25th anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks with a remembrance ceremony at noon Friday at Heritage Port. Faith leaders, first responders, students and community members are expected to attend. Wreaths will be placed in memory of the police officers, firefighters and others who lost their lives that day.

West Virginia State Police are investigating suspected fraud involving the Brooke Hancock Family Resource Network. The organization’s board said an independent auditor discovered evidence of fraudulent activity. The nonprofit, established in 1995, temporarily closed in May. Additional information about the investigation has not been released.

In Monroe County, a juvenile passenger was killed and three other people were injured in a rollover crash Wednesday evening. The Ohio State Highway Patrol said 39-year-old Britney Timberman of Woodsfield lost control of a vehicle on Wolf Pen Road near State Route 26. The vehicle overturned, ejecting the juvenile. The other occupants are expected to survive. Troopers suspect alcohol and drug impairment contributed to the crash.

Wetzel County school officials have released new details about a proposed $160 million consolidated campus called Wetzel Woodlands School. The facility would serve students in grades six through 12 and combine two existing high schools. Plans include a career and technical education center, athletic facilities and an agriculture center. The district hopes to open the campus in 2030 without seeking a bond issue. Bidding for earthmoving work is expected to begin in early 2027.

The proposed sale of Wheeling’s McLure Hotel remains unresolved following a status hearing Thursday. A closing scheduled for Sept. 4 did not take place, but the prospective buyer is reportedly continuing efforts to complete the transaction. The next hearing is scheduled for Sept. 30.

In East Liverpool, Arcwood Environmental has donated a Genesis Combi Tool to the city’s fire department. The compact rescue device combines cutting and spreading functions commonly associated with the Jaws of Life. Fire Chief Anthony Cumo said the equipment will give crews additional flexibility during emergency rescues.

Researchers have also confirmed what they believe is the first armadillo to reach Ohio naturally. Miami University graduate students examined the animal after it was found dead along a Butler County roadway. Researchers said the discovery indicates the species is expanding into colder northern regions. The specimen will be preserved for further study and could eventually be placed on public display.

Ollie’s Bargain Outlet Plans New Weirton Plaza Location

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Ollie’s Bargain Outlet Plans New Weirton Plaza Location

WEIRTON, W.Va. — Another retailer is preparing to open in Weirton, bringing new activity to a previously vacant storefront.

City officials announced during Tuesday’s Weirton City Council meeting that Ollie’s Bargain Outlet will occupy the former Big Lots building at the Weirton Plaza shopping center. The regular council meeting was held Sept. 8.

Ollie’s is a discount retailer offering closeout and surplus merchandise across several departments, including household goods, food, clothing and seasonal products.

Details about renovations, hiring and a planned opening date were not immediately announced.

River News will provide updates as additional information becomes available.

River News Headlines: Local Development, Criminal Cases and Major State Investments

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River News Headlines: Local Development, Criminal Cases and Major State Investments

Here are the latest stories making headlines across the Ohio Valley on Thursday, Sept. 10, 2026.

Animals Removed From Condemned Columbiana Home

Nearly two dozen dogs and three cats were removed Wednesday from a home in Columbiana after authorities reported finding the animals living in poor conditions.

Fabian Pike, chief humane officer for the Columbiana County Humane Society, described it as one of the most severe cases he has encountered during his 14 years on the job. Officials reported finding sick dogs, underfed cats and animal crates containing large amounts of waste.

The home, which did not have active water or electricity, was condemned. Authorities expect charges to be filed as the investigation continues.

Sinclair Building Owners Face Legal Action in Steubenville

The City of Steubenville is pursuing legal action against the owners of the deteriorating Sinclair Building after pieces of concrete reportedly fell from the structure.

City Manager Mike Johnson said two nearby streets were closed to protect the public. City officials are reviewing their legal options as they work to address the building’s condition.

Lawmaker Seeks Stronger West Virginia Secret-Filming Law

West Virginia State Senator Ryan Weld is calling for changes to state law following felony charges against a Brooke High School principal accused of secretly recording girls inside dressing rooms.

Weld said the current law is outdated and plans to pursue legislation that would make secret filming a felony throughout West Virginia.

The charges remain allegations, and the accused is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

Fox Run Center CEO’s Case Advances

The criminal case involving Fox Run Center CEO Randall Mackendrick has been transferred to Lorain County Common Pleas Court.

Mackendrick is accused of arranging a meeting with someone he allegedly believed was 14 years old. He has been released on a $125,000 bond while the case proceeds.

The charge remains an allegation, and Mackendrick is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.

Barnesville Vision Center Breaks Ground on New Facility

Barnesville Vision Center has broken ground on a new location at 22 North Chestnut Street.

Bedway Construction will serve as the project’s lead contractor, while Swiss Valley Associates will provide engineering services. Part-owner Dr. Zach Leach said planning for the facility has been underway for approximately three years.

The vision center hopes to open the new location sometime in 2027.

Ohio Receives $50 Million to Support Students

Ohio will receive $50 million in federal funding through a Talent Search grant, according to Gov. Mike DeWine.

The funding is expected to provide tutoring, career exploration, apprenticeship opportunities and college preparation services to approximately 20,000 low-income and first-generation students.

Ohio was one of two states selected nationwide to receive the grant.

West Virginia Considered for Federal Nuclear Campus

West Virginia is now being considered as a possible location for a federal Nuclear Lifecycle Innovation Campus.

The U.S. Department of Energy originally identified five finalist states in July. Gov. Patrick Morrisey said discussions between state and federal officials helped bring West Virginia into consideration for the project.

Additional information about the selection process and a timeline for the final decision has not yet been announced.

Motorists Urged to Use Caution Amid Increased Buggy Traffic Near Quaker City

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Motorists Urged to Use Caution Amid Increased Buggy Traffic Near Quaker City

GUERNSEY COUNTY, Ohio — Drivers traveling through the Quaker City area are being advised to watch for increased horse-and-buggy traffic Thursday.

Community reports indicate an Amish wedding is taking place in the area, bringing additional buggy traffic to State Route 513 near Oxford Road. Horse-drawn vehicles may also be approaching the area from surrounding roads.

Motorists should reduce their speed, remain patient and allow plenty of room when approaching or passing a buggy. Drivers of large commercial vehicles are especially encouraged to slow down and use caution.

River News extends congratulations to the newlyweds and wishes everyone safe travels.

Fatal Rollover Crash Under Investigation Near Woodsfield

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Fatal Rollover Crash Under Investigation Near Woodsfield

WOODSFIELD, Ohio — One person died and two others were transported following a rollover crash on Wolf Pen Road near State Route 26 in Monroe County on Wednesday.

Initial emergency communications indicated multiple juveniles were among the vehicle’s occupants. An air medical helicopter was requested during the response.

Dispatch information also indicated that authorities believed the driver was the mother of at least three of the young occupants, including the person who died. Their relationships have not been publicly confirmed by the Ohio State Highway Patrol.

The patrol said alcohol and drug impairment are suspected as contributing factors in the crash. The incident remains under investigation, and a crash reconstruction team was requested.

Antioch EMS, Woodsfield Fire and EMS, the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, the Monroe County Coroner’s Office and Stephens Towing assisted at the scene.

The identity and age of the person who died have not been released. No additional information about the conditions of the other occupants was immediately available.

This is a heartbreaking tragedy for the family and the Monroe County community. River News extends its deepest condolences to the loved ones of the person who died and to everyone affected by the crash.

Additional information will be provided when it is released by investigating authorities.

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