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    Welcome to the Greenbrier Journal. We are a news publishing business located right here in Greenbrier County, West Virginia. Our mission is simple: to cover local news and politics. Signing up is completely FREE, so get started today.

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    • Local News
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      Blair Campbell Debuts Children's Book Series in Lewisburg

      GreenbrierJournal

      Love Child Lewisburg will host author Blair Campbell on Saturday, January 18th, 2025, as she debuts her first children’s fiction book, The Campbells Go Camping. The event will take place at 933 Washington Street from 12 PM to 4 PM, featuring two live book readings at 12 PM and 2 PM.
      This book marks the first installment in Campbell’s new series, Jamlachia, which weaves together life in Jamaica and Appalachia with themes of family and love. In The Campbells Go Camping, readers are introduced to Momma Campbell, a problem solver and bringer together of people, as she takes her family Poppa, Penelope, and Oliver on a memorable camping trip. The story highlights the joys of family, the value of love, and the importance of cherishing life’s precious moments.
      Designed for children and parents alike, this book encourages reading aloud and exploring its illustrations together. It’s a heartwarming tale of life’s twists and turns that invites families to reflect on their own experiences while enjoying the Campbells’ adventure.
      The event is open to all ages. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the magic of storytelling with Blair Campbell at Love Child Lewisburg!
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    • Sport News
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      Tickets on sale for 2025 Battle for the Springhouse at The Greenbrier

      GreenbrierJournal

      WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS, W.Va. — (January 6, 2025): One of the most anticipated high school basketball events of the season will return to The Greenbrier later this month, and advance tickets are now on sale.
      Since its beginnings in 2022, the Battle for the Springhouse at America’s Resort has brought the best girls and boys basketball teams from across West Virginia inside the resort’s largest ballroom, Colonial Hall, for two days filled with exciting basketball. The ballroom recently hosted the inaugural Greenbrier Tip-Off, with college basketball teams from power conferences.
      This year, The Battle for the Springhouse has gone across the state’s borders, adding a talented Virginia squad to the intriguing mix of teams competing for the Springhouse Trophy January 31 and February 1. Tickets are now on sale and can be purchased by visiting Greenbrier.com/Springhouse. Tickets are sold on a game-by-game basis and are $5 for each contest. The arena will be cleared at the conclusion of each game. Past games have sold out, so advanced purchase is recommended.
      The Battle for the Springhouse offers experiences that cannot be found at other tournaments. Players and coaches will not only have the opportunity to face a high level of competition, but they will also learn about the incredible legacy of America's Resort, sample the world-class cuisine and experience the incomparable accommodations. The Greenbrier invests in the future of the participating student-athletes by providing an unforgettable experience that they will remember for a lifetime. It also awards one player from each participating team with a scholarship to be used toward his or her future education.
      One of the event’s premier partners, GameChanger, will once again be a major part of the weekend, educating the student-athletes about the dangers of substance misuse and the value of a healthy, drug-free lifestyle.
      Every game will be broadcast live by MetroNews Television, in association with Video Productions, with experienced announcers and high-quality video. MetroNews Television can be found on Roku, iPhone, Apple TV, fireTV and other streaming platforms, as well as online at wvmetronewstv.com, providing maximum exposure to both athletes and sponsors.
      The 2025 boys’ field features the top two teams in Class AAAA, Spring Mills and Morgantown, as well local power Greenbrier East and the first Virginia school to play in the tournament, Virginia Episcopal School. Spring Mills, last year’s Class AAAA runner-up, is off to a 6-0 start, while Morgantown, the defending Class AAAA champion and the defending Battle for the Springhouse champion, is 5-0. Greenbrier East, a Class AAA squad, is 3-2 and coming off an impressive come-from-behind win over Princeton. Virginia Episcopal, out of Lynchburg, competes in the hotly contested VISAA, and the Bishops have won four of their last seven contests.
      The girls’ field features 10-0 Greenbrier East, tied for the top spot in Class AAA, along with Class AA No. 7 Charleston Catholic, Class AAAA Huntington, a state semifinalist last year, and defending Battle for the Springhouse champion North Marion, a perennial power in Class AAA. All four teams began the season ranked in their respective classes.
      Games begin Friday, January 31. For the latest updates, follow Battle for the Springhouse on Facebook and X.
      2025 Schedule
      Friday, January 31
      2:00pm — North Marion Girls vs. Charleston Catholic Girls 4:00pm — Morgantown Boys vs. Virginia Episcopal Boys 6:00pm — Greenbrier East Boys vs. Spring Mills Boys 8:00pm — Greenbrier East Girls vs. Huntington Girls Saturday, February 3
      1:00pm — Boys Consolation Game 3:00pm — Girls Consolation Game 5:00pm — Boys Championship Game 7:00pm — Girls Championship Game
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    • National & World News
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      Congress Certifies Election for Donald Trump, Returning Him to the Presidency

      GreenbrierJournal

      On January 6, 2025, Congress officially certified Donald Trump's victory in the 2024 presidential election, confirming his return to the White House. This marks Trump’s second term after his initial presidency from 2017 to 2021, making him the second president in U.S. history, after Grover Cleveland, to serve non-consecutive terms.
      The certification process proceeded without significant controversy, a stark contrast to the events of January 6, 2021. Enhanced security measures ensured a peaceful session despite winter weather conditions in Washington, D.C.
      Vice President Kamala Harris presided over the proceedings in her constitutional role, formally announcing the results of the Electoral College. Harris, who had run as the Democratic nominee against Trump, underscored the importance of democratic principles in her remarks.
      Trump is set to be inaugurated on January 20, 2025. His return signals a new chapter in American politics, as his administration prepares to take office.
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    • Entertainment News
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      Carnegie Hall’s Second Stage Series Presents The Marks Family 'String Beings'

      GreenbrierJournal

      Carnegie Hall’s Second Stage Series continues with The Marks Family “String Beings” on Thursday, January 16, at 7 p.m. in the Old Stone Room. Guests are invited to come early for the Second Stage Lounge from 6 – 6:45 p.m. A cash bar and snacks will be available.
      The Marks Family "String Beings" live and practice in Hillsboro, WV.  A family of five, they continue a family tradition of making music together that started a generation before. Paolo Marks grew up playing cello in ensembles with his father and brothers, all of whom made careers in music. He made the violins that he and his daughter Sal play.  Erica Lipps Marks grew up playing cello with her father and brother who also made lives in music. She plays a cello made in WV by John Preston and Harold Haslip.
      Asa Marks plays trumpet at Greenbrier East High School as well as viola in the family quintet.  In addition to family teachers, she studies with Russell Fallstad. Sal Marks plays trombone at Eastern Greenbrier Middle School in addition to first violin in the family quintet. Fenna Marks is a fourth-grade student at Hillsboro Elementary School and studies piano with Susanna Robinson. She is also learning cello.
      The two families' musical habits would not have been possible without the essential support of the grandmothers who, while not performing musicians themselves, worked hard to create environments where musicians could grow.  
      The Marks Family "String Beings" play classical, folk, and original music.  Their repertoire includes Mozart and Haydn string quartets, arrangements of movie and pop songs, and tunes that they have written and arranged. Beyond giving their best performances possible, the Marks family wants to engage and include audience members of all ages at a live show.  They believe music is for everyone and are planning an evening of interactive music, art, and surprises at their first public performance as a whole family. 
      The Second Stage Series consists of five special events that take place in the Old Stone Room located on the ground floor of the Hall. The intimate setting creates a “speak easy” vibe with an eclectic line-up of entertainment. Seating is general admission.
      Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for students. Thanks to the Carnegie Cardinal Fund, Greenbrier County Students attend for free, but still must reserve a seat. 
      Tickets may be purchased by visiting www.carnegiehallwv.org, calling 304.645.7917, or stopping by the box office at 611 Church Street, Lewisburg, WV. Discounted Second Stage Series Subscriptions are also available through the box office.  
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    • Entertainment News
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      New Year's Eve Fireworks in Alderson Cancelled

      GreenbrierJournal

      The family-friendly New Year’s Eve fireworks display in Alderson on December 31 at 7:30 p.m. has been cancelled due to the weather systems which are forecast to move through the area at that time.
      Produced by the Alderson Volunteer Fire Department and sponsored by the Town of Alderson and Alderson Main Street, these fireworks are supported by a grant from the James F. B. Peyton Foundation. We deeply regret that they must be cancelled. Even if the rain were to stop, mist, fog and dense atmosphere hold the smoke and make it almost impossible to see the beautiful lights.
      Please remember that the best July 4 th Fireworks display in West Virginia will be held on the night of July 4, 2025 in Alderson and everyone is invited to view that marvelous display.
      The great folks at the Alderson Volunteer Fire Department, the Town of Alderson, and Alderson Main Street still wish you a Happy New Year.
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    • Health News
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      DoHS Reports Continued Decrease in Overdose Deaths, Announces 2025-2030 SUD Prevention Plan

      GreenbrierJournal

      The West Virginia Department of Human Services (DoHS), Bureau for Behavioral Health (BBH) and Office of Drug Control Policy (ODCP) today announced continued progress in reducing overdose deaths across the state, alongside the release of the agency’s 2025-2030 One State One Vision West Virginia Substance Use Primary Prevention Strategic Plan aimed at sustaining and expanding these efforts.

      “Every life saved is a victory for West Virginia,” said Dr. Stephen Loyd, DoHS Office of Drug Control Policy Director. “This sustained progress is a testament to the hard work of our partners and our commitment to addressing the opioid crisis through comprehensive prevention and treatment strategies.”

      Updated data highlights a 36% decrease in overdose deaths from January to June 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. Even with pending cases, the reduction is not expected to fall below 29%. Additionally, year-over-year figures for the 12 months ending in July 2024 show a 22.6% decline in drug overdose deaths in West Virginia. This reduction exceeds the national average decrease of 16.9%, underscoring the impact of the State’s focused prevention, treatment, and recovery strategies.

      “This decline equates to 256 lives saved – 256 individuals who are still with their families and communities,” said Christina Mullins, DoHS Deputy Secretary of Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders. “When we think about what this means, it’s not just a statistic. It’s 256 mothers, fathers, sons, daughters, and friends who have another chance at life. These numbers remind us why we work so hard to prevent overdose deaths and to help those battling substance use disorder find their way to recovery.” As part of its ongoing commitment, DoHS also announced the release of its One State One Vision West Virginia Substance Use Primary Prevention Strategic Plan, which builds on current successes by introducing new, data-driven strategies to combat substance use disorder (SUD) and further reduce overdose deaths. Key elements of the plan include: Strengthening capacity to implement and sustain evidence-based prevention programs. Establishing a comprehensive data and evaluation system. Fostering strategic collaboration and communication. Increasing and aligning investments in prevention infrastructure. Developing unified messaging for substance use awareness and education. “This plan represents a forward-thinking approach to prevention by using data and evidence to guide every decision we make,” said Nicholas Stuchell, DoHS Bureau for Behavioral Health Interim Commissioner. “By strengthening collaboration, communication, and investments in prevention, we can ensure that more West Virginians have the support they need to live healthy, substance-free lives.”

      To view BBH’s One State One Vision West Virginia Substance Use Primary Prevention Strategic Plan, visit helpandhopewv.org/prevention-plan. 
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    • Entertainment News
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      Carnegie Hall Art Walk Scheduled for January

      GreenbrierJournal

      Carnegie Hall invites the community to the Carnegie Hall Artwalk on Friday, January 10, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. ArtWalk events at Carnegie Hall are free and offer visitors the opportunity to explore a wide variety of original works by local and regional artists, all set in a world-class historical venue.
      Visitors are encouraged to immerse themselves in the arts while enjoying live music by John Maddy, complimentary light refreshments, and a cash bar. Each exhibit rotation features creative collaborations and three separate galleries showcasing unique work in multiple mediums, ranging from contemporary portraits in oil to heirloom level craft arts.
      The Lobby Gallery and the Board Room will feature West Virginia artist Newman Jackson. His paintings vary from large, portrait-style paintings to smaller canvases with imagery revealing the more psychological aspects of humanness. In some of the “psychological realities” paintings, his brush and colors convey an emotional atmosphere around partially resolved body forms.
      Suzan Morgan’s work will be featured in the Old Stone Room. A textile artist who has been living and creating in central WV since 1988, Morgan hand-dyes and prints all the textiles she uses, as well as most of the other fibers found in her work.
      The Museum Gallery will house a curated exhibit of Carl Frederick Gaetner’s work. This collection is the first retrospective solo exhibition of Carl Frederick Gaertner (1898–1952) in over twenty years—and the very first in West Virginia. A nationally recognized painter from Cleveland, Ohio, Gaertner is celebrated for his evocative depictions of industrial landscapes, rural life, and transitional moments in art and society.
      The exhibits run through the end of February and are free and open to the public, Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. For more information, please visit carnegiehallwv.org, call (304) 645-7917, or stop by the Hall at 611 Church Street, Lewisburg, WV.
      Carnegie Hall programs are presented with financial assistance through a grant from the West Virginia Department of Arts, Culture and History and the National Endowment for the Arts, with approval from the West Virginia Commission on the Arts.
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    • Business News
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      The Greenbrier honored as top destination for Christmas

      GreenbrierJournal

      There’s no place quite like America’s Resort, The Greenbrier, during the Christmas season, and the nation is beginning to take note.
      Over the course of the last month, The Greenbrier has been recognized for its holiday programing and the spirit that fills the property by seven different national publications, ranking the historic resort as one of the top spots for a holiday getaway.
      “I grew up in the community, and one of my favorite holiday traditions was always making a visit to The Greenbrier to take in the surroundings and the activities,” said Cam Huffman, The Greenbrier’s Director of Public Relations. “This is the ninth Christmas that I’ve been fortunate enough to be part of The Greenbrier team, and I still get the same feeling every year.”
      “From the lights to the music, the food and all the interior decorations, there’s just no place like it. We’re thrilled to be recognized as one of the top spots to visit during the holidays, and we hope these stories will reach a new audience to plan a trip and find out what the magic of Christmas at America's Resort is all about.”
      The Christmas season begins in November, when thousands or sparkling lights are carefully placed to illuminate the 11,000-acre property. Giant Christmas trees are erected at both main entrances, and with help from Gillespie’s Flowers and Productions, nearly every inch of the hotel’s cozy interior is decorated with garland, bows and trees. Each Saturday evening between Thanksgiving and Christmas, a festive tree lighting ceremony takes place, complete with carols, cookies and Santa’s arrival.
      Weekends With Santa on the first four December weekends bring opportunities to count down to Christmas with Dinner in Santa’s Village, gingerbread house and holiday wreath workshops, mixologies, wine pairings, a Christmas Cantata and much more, including those classic photos with “Saint Nick.”
      This Saturday, December 21, at 8:30 p.m., The Greenbrier Springhouse Entertainers combine with a community chorus and orchestra for a holiday show entitled “Here Comes Christmas” that includes singing, orchestration and movement to bring the holiday spirit to a festive audience inside the picturesque Greenbrier Chapel.
      The upcoming days surrounding Christmas include a family Christmas tree decorating contest, ornament decorating, a special Christmas Eve service in The Greenbrier Chapel, musical performances, scavenger hunts, cookie decorating, wine pairings and other exciting holiday programming.
      On December 29, at 7:30 p.m., Beckley Performing Arts presents The Nutcracker Ballet inside the iconic hotel, with a repeat performance on December 30 at 2 p.m.
      “It’s been an unbelievable holiday season so far, but it’s not over yet,” said Huffman. “There are some wonderful events planned between now and the end of 2024, and we look forward to welcoming visitors from all around the world to enjoy these treasured moments with us.”
      See the list below of The Greenbrier’s recent national recognition.
      The Week – 7 festive hotels that get decked out for the holidays Business Insider – 12 hotels in the US that go all out with their Christmas decorations Travel Pulse – The Best Winter Festivals in the USA VUE Atlanta – A Guide to Holiday Magic: West Virginia’s Top Winter Activities USA Today – Best Hotels for the Holidays CNN Travel – 17 Luxury hotels that go all out for Christmas Only in Your state – The 16 best things to do in Wet Virginia in winter About The Greenbrier
      The Greenbrier is a distinct and spectacular luxury mountain resort situated in the Allegheny Mountains in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia. It’s best known as “America’s Resort™” and is synonymous with world-class, authentic, southern hospitality. The Greenbrier experience, beginning in 1778, offers a luxurious respite to discerning guests from around the world. The grand scale architecture, Dorothy Draper décor, immaculate attention to detail and legendary gracious service set The Greenbrier apart from all others. Guests walk in the footsteps of presidents, celebrities and generations of families who regard The Greenbrier as a “one-of-one” destination. The 710 perfectly appointed Signature Resort Rooms, Classic and Historic Suites, Legacy Cottages and Estate Homes are situated on our breathtaking 11,000-acre playground. Play championship golf courses or experience more than 55 activities, including professional indoor and outdoor tennis, off-road driving and falconry. America’s only private casino features table games, slot machines and the FanDuel Sportsbook. The Greenbrier’s full-service, 40,000-square-foot spa is widely recognized as one of the most luxurious mineral spas in the world, and the Retail Collection is comprised of 36 boutiques, shops and hand-crafted works of art. The Greenbrier Restaurant Collection is comprised of 20 restaurants, cafés and lounges featuring award–winning cuisine. The Greenbrier Clinic has been practicing diagnostic medicine since 1948. The Greenbrier Sporting Club and The Greenbrier Legacy Club are the pinnacle of luxury real estate, offering exclusive home sites within distinctive neighborhoods across The Greenbrier estate. Follow The Greenbrier on Facebook at The Greenbrier, on Twitter at @the_greenbrier or on Instagram at the_greenbrier.
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    • Entertainment News
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      Healing Appalachia Needs Your Help!

      GreenbrierJournal

      As the festival season winds down, the spirit of giving comes into full bloom. Healing Appalachia, a vital organization committed to supporting recovery efforts across the region, is calling on the community to come together this Giving Tuesday, December 3rd.
      The Power of Your Donation
      Every donation, big or small, directly contributes to recovery programs that transform lives in Appalachia. This Giving Tuesday, Healing Appalachia aims to finish the year strong by rallying the community to support their mission. Contributions help fund essential services for those battling substance use disorders, creating a brighter, healthier future for our neighbors. Click here to donate now.
      A Special Holiday Offer: 20% Off Healing Appalachia Merchandise
      In the spirit of giving, Healing Appalachia is offering a 20% discount on all merchandise until midnight tonight! This includes cozy sweatshirts, stylish hats, posters, and more—all perfect for holiday gifting.
      When you purchase merchandise, you’re not just giving a thoughtful gift to your loved ones; you’re also supporting a cause that helps countless individuals on their recovery journey. Shop now and make a difference!
      How You Can Help
      Make a Donation: Your contribution will make a lasting impact on recovery initiatives. Shop for Good: Take advantage of the 20% discount on merchandise while supporting the organization’s mission. Join the Movement
      Healing Appalachia has dedicated its efforts to combating the substance use epidemic in Appalachia, and they rely on community support to make their work possible. This Giving Tuesday, let’s show the strength of Appalachia’s generosity by coming together to support this life-changing cause.
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    • Local News
      GreenbrierJournal

      CASA Santa’s Helpers

      GreenbrierJournal

      CASA of the Eleventh Judicial Circuit, WV, Inc. is spreading holiday cheer this Christmas season through its Santa’s Helpers initiative. Similar to the Angel Tree Program, this effort is dedicated to bringing joy to children in need this holiday season.   You’ll find our Santa’s Helpers displayed at City National Bank in Downtown Lewisburg, each representing a child or family in need of kindness this year. Inside each selection, you will find the child’s wishes, needs, wants and clothing sizes. CASA has also provided gift bags to simplify the process of returning the gifts. To ensure proper coordination, please inform CASA of the family number you choose so the gifts can be matched with the assigned child or family.    These gifts support children in relative or kinship foster care placements - grandparents, aunts, uncles, siblings or other compassionate adults who are caring for a child to prevent their placement into agency foster care programs. These families often manage limited incomes and receive minimal assistance to help with the added cost of extra children in their homes. Your generosity can brighten the season and provide much-needed relief to these overextended families.   CASA asks that all gifts be returned to City National Bank by December 13, 2024, to ensure the gifts are delivered in time for the holidays! If you’d like to make a difference in a child’s life, stop by City National Bank in Downtown Lewisburg and become a Santa’s Helper!   CASA is deeply grateful to City National Bank for their partnership in ensuring every child experiences the magic of the season and for their incredible support in launching the Santa’s Helpers Program. For more information, please call CASA at 304-645-5437 or visit CASAadvocates.org.   Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) are dedicated to ensuring the best interests of children by finding safe, permanent homes as quickly as possible, as well as serving as the child’s voice in court. CASA is central to fulfilling one of the community’s most fundamental obligations by making sure a qualified, compassionate adult fights for and protects a child’s right to be secure and grow up in a safe, permanent family.   CASA of the Eleventh Judicial Circuit is located in Lewisburg, WV and serves children in Greenbrier and Pocahontas Counties Circuit Court’s abuse and neglect cases. CASA recruits, trains and administers volunteers to advocate on behalf of abused and neglected children in the circuit court. This year, CASA provided a voice in court for 238 local children and has served over 1,410 children since its inception.
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