FEMA aid is already reaching July 21 flood victims in Upshur and Lewis counties, but residents must apply before the early October deadline. City leaders urged residents to visit the disaster recovery center before deciding, noting that checks are already hitting bank accounts.
The latest Buckhannon Banter rounds up events, activities and community updates from around Upshur County and beyond.
Buckhannon awarded $10,000 in opioid settlement funds to One Unique Recovery House. The grant will help retain two peer recovery specialists after federal funding was unexpectedly cut in July.
The latest Buckhannon Banter rounds up events, activities and community updates from around Upshur County and beyond.
Upshur County officials urge flood survivors to prioritize mold remediation to prevent long-term health and structural problems. Residents should properly dry, clean and remove contaminated materials and consult EPA and NEHA guidance.
Buckhannon’s calendar features public meetings, guitar lessons, Bluegrass Night and community events. Residents can also find updates on park reopenings, Labor Day closures, flood-repair permit waivers and FEMA disaster assistance.
Loyle Thomas “Tom” Smith, Jr., 67, of Buckhannon, passed away on August 22, 2026, at J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital in Morgantown. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and accomplished mechanic.
Pamela Gayle Allender, 70, of the Lick Run Community, passed away unexpectedly at her home on August 22, 2026. A former CNA, she enjoyed reading, watching TV, and shopping on Amazon.
Upshur County’s Aug. 24-30 sports calendar features Buckhannon-Upshur and West Virginia Wesleyan football, soccer, volleyball, golf and cross-country action. Highlights include Friday varsity football at Bridgeport and Saturday’s Wesleyan home opener against Post.
Sophomore Mitchell Whitley led Buckhannon-Upshur with a 37th-place finish in 17:54.6, nearly three minutes faster than last year. The Buccaneers placed 19th among 28 teams at the St. Marys Autumn Classic.
Buckhannon-Upshur opened its season with a strong fifth-place finish in a deep 24-team field at the St. Marys Invitational. Gwendolyn Rogosky led three Lady Bucs into the top 40, while Chloe Lewis posted a personal best by nearly two minutes.
See the agenda for the Buckhannon Consolidated Public Works Board special meeting on August 27, 2026, including the items set for discussion and action.
Community Bulletin
When a burst pipe, leaking roof or major storm hits a home, Foster's Marketing Group offers emergency repairs 24/7 — water mitigation, pipe and roof repair, drywall, and insurance assistance — from a Buckhannon company licensed and insured in West Virginia.
Buckhannon-Upshur placed fourth with a 198 in a competitive quad match at Tygart Lake Country Club, led by Chance Wayne’s 47. The Buccaneers return Thursday to host Lincoln after rain canceled their dual match with Elkins.
Buckhannon-Upshur showed grit but opened its 2026 volleyball season with losses to Mount Hope Christian and Shady Spring. The 0-2 Lady Bucs return home Tuesday to face Braxton County at 7 p.m.
