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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
      GreenbrierJournal

      US-219 Reopened Following Serious Multi-Vehicle Crash in Maxwelton, Intoxicated Driver Arrested After Nearly Striking First Responders

      GreenbrierJournal

      A major accident on U.S. Route 219 near Maxwelton shut down the highway late Tuesday night after a two-vehicle collision left multiple people trapped and seriously injured. The incident occurred at approximately 10:58 p.m., prompting a rapid response from the Frankford Volunteer Fire Department, Station 120.
      Units responding from Frankford included Engine 120-01, Quick Attack 120-04, Brush 120-05, and Command 120-06. Due to the severity of the entrapments, mutual aid was requested from Lewisburg Fire Department, Company 20, to assist with extrication efforts. Firefighters from both departments worked quickly and efficiently, successfully extricating all individuals from the wreckage within 25 minutes of arrival.
      Emergency medical personnel from Fairlea, Alderson, and White Sulphur Springs EMS provided on-site triage and transportation of patients to nearby hospitals. Law enforcement officers from the Greenbrier County Sheriff's Department and the West Virginia State Police were also on scene, assisting with traffic control and securing the area.
      All emergency units cleared the scene by approximately 3:10 a.m. on April 17. U.S. 219 has since been reopened to normal traffic.
      However, as responders were actively working the initial crash, a secondary and highly dangerous incident occurred.
      Frankford Fire reported that a potentially intoxicated driver barreled through the crash site, bypassing six emergency vehicles with lights activated—including three police cruisers, two fire trucks, and a rollback tow truck—before crashing into the original accident scene. The individual’s reckless actions nearly resulted in multiple first responder injuries or fatalities.
      Quick response and defensive actions by firefighters and law enforcement prevented what could have been a catastrophic loss of life. The driver was immediately taken into custody at the scene and transported to Southern Regional Jail.
      “We normally don’t make posts like this, but with what occurred, we are sharing it with the public,” Frankford Volunteer Fire Department stated on social media. “This intoxicated individual came within inches and seconds of catastrophically changing multiple first responders' lives.”
      The department urged the public to take driving under the influence seriously. “If you need a drink, DON’T DRIVE. DO NOT be like this reckless individual because you will receive some shiny silver bracelets and an all-inclusive paid vacation at a secure state facility,” they added.
      Frankford VFD extended their thanks to all responding agencies and asked the community to keep those involved in their thoughts and prayers.

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    • Education News
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      Carnegie Hall Offers Hands-On Spring Workshops in Weaving, Stained Glass, and Basket Making

      GreenbrierJournal

      Carnegie Hall’s 2025 Spring Classes & Workshops Series is in full bloom with three creative opportunities inviting locals and visitors alike to explore their artistic sides in small group settings. The lineup includes workshops in beaded bracelet weaving, stained-glass art, and Appalachian basketry, all held at Carnegie Hall’s studios in downtown Lewisburg.
      Josephine Knot Market Basket – Friday, April 25 | 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
      Kicking off the weekend of creativity is the Josephine Knot Market Basket workshop, part of Carnegie Hall’s Appalachian Heritage Series. Taught by artisan Kathy Talley, this full-day class introduces participants to basic basket weaving techniques to craft a functional market basket complete with a sturdy wooden handle and decorative Josephine knot. No experience is necessary, and all materials are provided.
      Cost: $125/members, $145/nonmembers, with scholarships available for Greenbrier County students and those aged 50+, who pay just $45.
      Stained-Glass 3D Hanging Basket – Saturday, April 26 | 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
      Early Saturday morning, artist Lynda Weischowsky returns to Carnegie Hall to guide students through the process of making a Stained-Glass 3D Hanging Basket. Perfect for spring, this beginner-friendly class uses pre-cut glass and soldering techniques to build lifelike ivy vines in glass—no watering required. Participants will assemble their piece using lead came and wire wrapping techniques.
      Cost: $95/members, $105/nonmembers, with a reduced rate of $25 for students 18 and under.
      Beaded Bracelet Weaving on a Loom – Saturday, April 26 | 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
      Rounding out the weekend, Barbara Volk leads a hands-on class in Beaded Bracelet Weaving on a Loom. Held in the Potterfield Weaving Studio, students will learn the basics of loom beadwork as they design and create their own colorful bracelet using glass beads and graph paper. By the end of class, each participant will leave with a finished piece of jewelry and the skills to continue weaving on their own.
      Cost: $45/members, $55/nonmembers, with youth scholarships lowering the price to just $15.
      Each workshop is part of Carnegie Hall’s mission to foster lifelong learning and celebrate Appalachian heritage through the arts. All classes are held at Carnegie Hall, located at 611 Church Street, Lewisburg, WV. Scholarships are made possible through the Hall’s commitment to accessibility and community enrichment.
      For more information or to register, visit carnegiehallwv.org/classes-and-workshops or stop by Carnegie Hall for a brochure. You can also call 304-645-7917 with any questions.
      Carnegie Hall WV is a member-driven nonprofit organization supported by individual donations, grants, and fundraising events such as TOOT and the Carnegie Hall Gala.
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    • Entertainment News
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      Carnegie Hall’s Link Up Concert Brings Greenbrier County 5th-Graders Together With a New Community Symphony

      GreenbrierJournal

      Carnegie Hall, Lewisburg’s annual Link Up program partners with Carnegie Hall, New York to offer Greenbrier County’s 5th grade students a once in a lifetime opportunity.
      Every year, Carnegie Hall (NY) Link Up shares educational expertise and resources with arts organizations and school districts around the world. Carnegie Hall (WV) and The Weill Music Institute of Carnegie Hall then collaborate to bring this exciting program to West Virginia schoolchildren. This year over 300 thousand students and teachers participated in the Link Up program.
      At the beginning of the school year, all elementary school music teachers participated in a professional development workshop taught by Carnegie Hall’s Education Director, Harmony Flora. Curriculum support materials are provided for students and teachers by CHNY’s Weill Music Institute, while Carnegie Hall in Lewisburg coordinates the program through Greenbrier County Schools. Using Link Up materials, 5th grade students engage in classroom activities to learn recorder, movement, and vocal pieces from a rotating curriculum, which concludes with a live concert each spring. Throughout the concert, the musical concepts that the students have studied during the year are demonstrated, and students are given the opportunity to play along with a live orchestra. 
      This year’s concert took place on Thursday, April 3 and featured the newly formed Carnegie Hall Community Orchestra, featuring members of the West Virginia Symphony and the West Virginia Jazz Orchestra, along with student musicians from Eastern Greenbrier Middle School and Greenbrier East High School. GEHS Music instructor Jim Allder conducted, with assistance from Greenbrier County Superintendent Jeff Bryant. 
      The Link Up program was ‘The Orchestra Swings’, a selection of upbeat pieces including “Duke’s Place” and “It Don’t Mean a Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing)” by Duke Ellington, “I Got Rhythm” by Geroge Gershwin, and “when the Saints Go Marching in.”
      Participating elementary schools included Alderson (Andrea Sloan), Crichton (Deidre Marshall), Frankford (Cassidy Hicks), Lewisburg (Amber Roehrig), Rainelle (Susan Simms), Ronceverte (Jeremy McClung), Rupert (Stephanie Boothe), Smoot (Stephanie Boothe), and White Sulphur Springs (Sarah Hann).
      Special thanks to Barbara Lutz, Preston Hedrik, and Susan Adkins who helped coordinate the performances.
      The Link Up program is funded by Greenbrier County Schools, Greenbrier County Commission, and the Carnegie Hall Guild. 
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    • Financial News
      GreenbrierJournal

      April 15 Marks Tax Day 2025: Final Hours to File or Request an Extension

      GreenbrierJournal

      Today, April 15, 2025, is the official deadline for most Americans to file their federal income tax returns. The IRS requires that returns be submitted by midnight local time. Those unable to meet this deadline can request an automatic six-month extension, giving them until October 15 to file. However, any taxes owed must still be paid by today to avoid penalties and interest.
      How to File or Extend
      Taxpayers can file their returns electronically through the IRS Free File program, available to individuals with an adjusted gross income up to $84,000 . To request an extension, individuals can submit Form 4868 electronically or by mail. It's important to note that an extension to file is not an extension to pay; estimated taxes should be paid by the April 15 deadline to avoid penalties.
      Disaster-Related Extensions
      Certain areas affected by federally declared disasters have been granted automatic extensions. For example, storm victims in North Carolina have until September 25, 2025, to file and pay taxes originally due on April 15 . Taxpayers in these regions do not need to file any additional paperwork to qualify for the extension.
      Refunds and Unclaimed Funds
      Taxpayers expecting a refund should file as soon as possible, as there's no penalty for late filing if a refund is due . Additionally, the IRS reports that over $1 billion in unclaimed refunds from the 2021 tax year remain. Eligible taxpayers must file by April 15, 2025, to claim these funds.
      Resources for Assistance
      For those needing help, the IRS offers several resources:
      IRS Free File: Available through October 20, 2025, for taxpayers with an adjusted gross income up to $84,000.
      IRS Direct File: Expanded to 25 states, providing free online filing for approximately 30 million taxpayers .
      Taxpayer Advocate Service: Offers guidance and assistance for resolving tax issues.
      For more information and to access these services, visit IRS.gov.
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    • Education News
      GreenbrierJournal

      Wildlife Habitat Workshop to Help Landowners

      GreenbrierJournal

      Landowners in West Virginia are invited to attend a free, two-day Wildlife Habitat Workshop designed to help them manage their land for the benefit of native wildlife. The event will be held at Wood Thrush Park, located at 334 Richland Lane in Lewisburg, on Friday, April 25 from 1 to 5 p.m., and Saturday, April 26 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
      The workshop is hosted by Appalachian Headwaters in partnership with the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (DNR), Appalachian Mountains Joint Venture, and Pheasants Forever.
      A social hour will take place Friday evening from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at The Humble Tomato in downtown Lewisburg. Lunch will be provided on Saturday for attendees.
      The workshop will offer landowners guidance from regional natural resource professionals. Topics include:
      Managing young and mature forests
      Improving pollinator and bird habitats
      Invasive species removal
      Understanding karst habitat
      Opportunities to monitor land as a citizen scientist
      The event is free and open to all West Virginia landowners, but registration is required by April 18. Participants can register using the QR code provided on the event flyer or by contacting Merri Collins at [email protected].
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    • Entertainment News
      GreenbrierJournal

      Renick Community Center Hosts Easter in the Park Event

      GreenbrierJournal

      The Renick Community Center's annual Easter in the Park celebration was a joyful success this year, delighting families and children alike despite the brisk, early spring weather.
      Dozens of children gathered at the park with colorful baskets in hand, ready to hunt for Easter eggs and take part in games, crafts, and fun-filled activities. The laughter and excitement of the kids warmed the day, turning the chilly air into a backdrop for unforgettable memories.
      Organizers extended heartfelt thanks to the many parents and volunteers who helped make the event run smoothly. Special recognition was given to the Greenbrier East High School ROTC for their outstanding contributions and enthusiastic support throughout the day.
      The Renick Community Center continues to serve as a vibrant hub for local events, bringing people together and strengthening community bonds. More seasonal events are on the horizon, so residents are encouraged to stay connected and get involved.
       

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    • Entertainment News
      GreenbrierJournal

      Carnegie Hall’s 2025 Second Stage Series Wraps Up With B-BAMS

      GreenbrierJournal

      Carnegie Hall presents its last Second Stage Series Concert with B-BAMS on Thursday, May 1, 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.
      Together for over 20 years, B-BAMS is a fun-loving musical quintet featuring talent from Alabama, Kentucky, New York, and West Virginia.  How did these folks manage to become a group?  Bob and Mary met in West Virginia in 2000 through a community choir and through a church choir. Bob (guitar) and Mary (piano) met Alex (cello) in 2002 when he was attending the WV School of Osteopathic Medicine.  They become good friends and musical companions (Alex also joined the church choir).  In 2004 Alex married Sarah (violin) and they became BAMS.  In 2007, Bryan (vocals) moved to WV, and they discovered “the voice from Alabama heaven,” completing the B-BAMS group.
      Their lives have taken them in many directions, but they always find time throughout the year to enjoy each other’s company and musical talents.  For their show at Carnegie Hall, listeners are invited to sit back and enjoy some of their favorite tunes by artists John Prine, James Taylor, Van Morrison, The Beatles, Travis Tritt, Casting Crowns, Garth Brooks, and Jackson Browne (to name a few). 
      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. Concerts are moved to the Hamilton Auditorium if demand is high.
      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.  
      Carnegie Hall WV is a nonprofit organization supported by individual contributions, grants, and fundraising efforts such as TOOT and The Carnegie Hall Gala. The Hall is located at 611 Church Street, Lewisburg, WV.  For more information, please call 304.645.7917 or visit www.carnegiehallwv.org.
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    • Entertainment News
      GreenbrierJournal

      Carnegie Hall’s Mainstage Performance Series Presents The McCrary Sisters

      GreenbrierJournal

      Carnegie Hall presents The McCrary Sisters on Saturday, May 3, at 7 p.m. Guests are invited to come early to Club Carnegie from 6 – 6:45 p.m. in the Board Room located adjacent to the Hamilton Auditorium. A cash bar and snacks are available. 
      The McCrary Sisters sing gospel that melds traditional with contemporary and incorporates their influences of classic soul, Americana, blues, rock, and R&B music. Central to their work and any show is their boundless joy in singing, and a desire to spread hope, love, healing (and dancing).

      Daughters of the late Rev. Samuel McCrary — a founding member of the legendary gospel quartet The Fairfield Four — Ann, Regina, Alfreda and Deborah grew up in Nashville surrounded by music, artists, community, and faith. The daughters were raised in harmony, singing at home and at their father’s church. In their formative years, the sisters had many accomplishments — individually and together — sharing in their family legacy performing with artists including Bob Dylan, Elvis, Isaac Hayes and Stevie Wonder.

      In 2011, the Sisters officially formed their own group, The McCrary Sisters, and have since recorded or performed with notable artists Delbert McClinton, Black Keys, Martina McBride, Eric Church, Patty Griffin, Buddy Miller, Jonny Lang, Robert Randolph, The Winans, Donnie McClurkin, Rosanne Cash, Carrie Underwood, Hank Williams Jr., Dr. John, Widespread Panic, Sheryl Crow, Maren Morris, Gregg Allman and many more.

      Their own recordings previous to these include a single "Amazing Grace" (2021), and albums A Very McCrary Christmas (2019), Live (2017), Let’s Go (2015), All The Way (2013), Our Journey (2011).
      Tickets are $35. Thanks to the Carnegie Cardinal Fund, Greenbrier County Students attend for free, but still must reserve a seat. Discounts are available for Carnegie Hall members, senior citizens, and military. 
      To purchase tickets, call Carnegie Hall Box Office at 304.645.7917, visit www.carnegiehallwv.org, or stop by at 611 Church Street, Lewisburg, West Virginia.  Carnegie Hall Box Office is open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.
      Carnegie Hall WV is a nonprofit organization supported by individual contributions, grants, and fundraising efforts such as TOOT and The Carnegie Hall Gala. The Hall is located at 611 Church Street, Lewisburg, WV.  For more information, please call 304.645.7917 or visit www.carnegiehallwv.org.
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    • Local News
      GreenbrierJournal

      Lion Days in Alderson

      GreenbrierJournal

      Most people in this area know of the story about the lion cub, born in Alderson during a visit by a circus, raised and who roamed free on the streets until he frightened a visitor. The Town Council then passed an ordinance requiring that all lions be on a leash.  
      Alderson Main Street is holding its Second Annual Lion Days from April 12-19 with many lion themed activities planned during Spring Break week so students and parents will find it easier to attend.  Businesses and restaurants have been encouraged to have lion themed sales and food items during this time.  A local favorite is the “Lion Club” sandwich which can be found at Jessie’s Market.  Residents have been encouraged to decorate with a lion theme.
      On Tuesday, April 15 at 2:00 pm at the Alderson Opportunity Center (old cafeteria building) at 277 Elmwood Avenue, there will be Lion Mural Painting for Kids.  All supplies will be provided free by Alderson Main Street and the event is under the guidance of Cheryl Mansley.  Pre-registration is required in order to have enough materials.  Please contact Cheryl Mansley at 304-702-0554 or [email protected].

      On Wednesday, April 16 at 2:00 pm there will be a free performance of Always Keep Your Lion on a Leash, a play from the Greenbrier Valley Theatre at the cafetorium of the Alderson Elementary School.  Please enter the front of the school on Chestnut Avenue.  This original play was written by Dorothy Jo Oberfoell, Education Director at GVT.  Puppet Palooza, a puppet making workshop, will take place after the play.  Copies of the new novel, Lion on a Leash, by Charles Ryan will be available for sale at this event.  This is a fictionalized account of French, the Alderson lion, and people who surrounded him throughout his life.  The 11th volume of the Alderson History Highlights and Tantalizing Tidbits “French, the Friendly Lion” by Belinda Anderson will also be available for sale.

      On Saturday, April 19, from 4:30-5:30, the kids who painted lion murals will be able to pick them up at the Historic 1896 C&O Depot.  From 6-7:30 pm, the monthly Writer’s Station will be held with an Open Mic for original written material.  Cheryl Mansley will be reading excerpts from Ryan’s book, Always Keep Your Lion on a Leash, which will again be for sale along with Anderson’s French, the Friendly Lion.  
      Alderson Main Street President Don Sutherland said, “We are excited to see the growth of “Lion Days” this year with a play and two publications telling the lion story.  Please join us to learn more and have some fun!”
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    • Politics & Opinions
      GreenbrierJournal

      Greenbrier County Republican Club Discusses Chemtrails, Food Dye Legislation, and More During Regular Meeting

      GreenbrierJournal

      The Greenbrier County Republican Club gathered for its regular monthly meeting Thursday evening, April 3, at 6:30 PM, with a full agenda that ranged from new state laws on food safety and gender identity to growing concerns about geoengineering and foreign land ownership.
      The meeting was called to order by Club President Brentz Thompson, followed by an invocation led by Mindy Fuchs and the Pledge of Allegiance by Frank Tuckwiller. Minutes from the previous meeting were approved without amendment.
      Treasurer’s Report: Strong Fundraising Success
      Allie Smith, joining by phone, delivered the treasurer’s report. The Club’s recent dinner was a notable success, raising:
      141 tickets sold: $7,050
      Ad sales: $3,800 (with $500 still outstanding)
      Donations: $1,500
      Total income: $12,350
      Expenses included:
      Dutch Haus catering: $5,555
      Postnet printing & materials: $680
      In-kind donations: $232.97
      After expenses, the Club earned a net income of $6,115, with $500 in ad revenue still expected. As of March 31, the Club’s bank balance stood at $11,772.23.
      Legislation Updates: Banning Harmful Food Additives & Defining Gender
      Brentz Thompson provided an update on two recently signed state bills:
      House Bill 2354, which prohibits certain food dyes and additives linked to health concerns. These dyes must be removed from school meals by August 1, 2025, and from all food sold in West Virginia by January 1, 2027. The bill mirrors bans already in place in parts of Europe.
      Senate Bill 456, which redefines male and female identity in West Virginia law based on biological sex at birth. The bill becomes effective June 9, 2025, and applies to gender-specific spaces like restrooms and locker rooms.
      Discussion also touched on Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin, who has vetoed 158 bills this year, earning him the nickname “Veto Corleone.”
      Geoengineering Awareness: Club Members Launch Clean Air Initiative
      One of the evening’s main topics was a growing concern over geoengineering and so-called “chemtrails.” Members of the Club have formed a new group, West Virginians for Clean Air, aimed at educating the public about materials being introduced into the atmosphere under the banner of weather modification.
      The discussion noted that Tennessee passed legislation in 2024 to ban chemical aerial spraying. Although similar bills introduced in West Virginia this year did not make it out of committee, supporters said the issue will return next session with broader support.
      To raise public awareness, the group will sponsor a free screening of the documentary “The Dimming” at 6:30 PM on Thursday, April 24 at The Clingman Center in downtown Lewisburg. Seating is limited to 150 attendees.
      Other Business: Property Ownership and Scholarship Efforts
      David Fuchs raised a concern about foreign ownership of West Virginia land, particularly by Chinese nationals. Trey Holland explained that current law prohibits individuals on the federal watch list from purchasing tax-delinquent property, but noted it doesn't prevent private purchases. Club members discussed the potential for new legislation modeled after laws passed in Missouri and other states.
      An update on the Club’s scholarship fund revealed ongoing challenges in locating a Republican-affiliated attorney willing to form a 501(c)(3) nonprofit at no cost. The Club currently operates as a 501(c)(4), which does not allow for tax-deductible donations.
      Public Engagement Concerns
      Members also expressed frustration over the elimination of public comment during the first reading of state bills. Concerns were raised about the transparency of the legislative process and the lack of opportunities for citizens to provide real-time feedback.
      Closing
      The meeting concluded with a group singing of “God Bless America,” followed by adjournment.
      The next meeting of the Greenbrier County Republican Club is scheduled for Thursday, May 1, 2025, at 6:30 PM at Cook’s Country Kitchen. Attendees are encouraged to come early for dinner and fellowship.
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