Jump to content

  • Greenbrier Journal

    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.

  • News

    Greenbrier Journal News Articles
    Show all categories
    • Local News
      GreenbrierJournal

      Tractor Trailer Truck Strikes Building in Downtown Lewisburg

      GreenbrierJournal

      Earlier today around 9 am, a tractor trailer truck struck a building located at the intersection of R60 and US219 in downtown Lewisburg, causing some damage including broken windows. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries resulting from the incident.
      This accident highlights the ongoing issue of traffic congestion and safety concerns in the downtown area of Lewisburg. Several years ago, the city implemented a no left-hand turn policy in an effort to alleviate traffic congestion, but the policy was ultimately deemed a failure.
      Since then, there has been a proposal to abolish street parking along US219 and construct a center turning lane. This would allow for vehicles to make left-hand turns without causing traffic congestion, while also allowing larger commercial trucks to navigate the sharp turns more easily.
      However, this proposal has faced strong opposition from local business owners in the downtown area, who argue that removing street parking would have a negative impact on their businesses.
      Despite the opposition, many daily commuters who pass through Lewisburg on a regular basis believe that the proposal is necessary to improve traffic flow and safety in the area.
      The recent accident serves as a reminder that action must be taken to address these ongoing issues in downtown Lewisburg. It remains to be seen whether the proposal to abolish street parking and construct a center turning lane will be implemented, but it is clear that the issue is a pressing concern for the community.
      Read more...

      620 • 0

    • Local News
      GreenbrierJournal

      Lewisburg Chocolate Festival - Festival Map and Tasting List Now Available

      GreenbrierJournal

      Chocolate lovers, rejoice! The annual Lewisburg Chocolate Festival is back, and the wait is over for attendees to plan their visit. Festival organizers have announced the release of the Festival Map and Tasting List, and tickets are now available for purchase.
      The festival, which takes place in Lewisburg, West Virginia, is a celebration of all things chocolate. The event features a wide variety of vendors offering an array of chocolate treats, including truffles, cakes, cookies, and more. Attendees will be able to sample these delicious treats at tasting stations located throughout the festival.
      This year's festival promises to be bigger and better than ever before, with more vendors and tasting stations than in previous years. Festival-goers will be able to indulge in their sweet tooth while enjoying live music, a chocolate-themed costume contest, and other activities.
      Tickets for the festival can be purchased online at the United Way Greenbrier Valley website. Tasting tickets are $1 each, and attendees can purchase as many tickets as they would like to sample the various chocolate treats.
      The festival will take place on April 8th, from 11 am to 3 pm. The festival map and tasting list are available on the United Way Greenbrier Valley website for attendees to plan their visit in advance.
      Whether you're a die-hard chocolate lover or simply looking for a fun weekend activity, the Lewisburg Chocolate Festival promises to be a must-attend event. Don't miss your chance to indulge in all the chocolatey goodness!
      Official Announcement: https://www.facebook.com/LewisburgChocolateFestival/photos/a.370311456528/10158886298866529/
      Map & Tastings: https://www.unitedwaygreenbrier.org/.../2023-LCF-MAP-2.pdf
      Purchase Tasting Tickets: https://www.unitedwaygreenbrier.org/LCF
       
      Read more...

      865 • 0

    • Health News
      GreenbrierJournal

      FDA Approves First Over-the-Counter Naloxone Nasal Spray

      GreenbrierJournal

      Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Narcan, 4 milligram (mg) naloxone hydrochloride nasal spray for over-the-counter (OTC), nonprescription, use – the first naloxone product approved for use without a prescription. Naloxone is a medication that rapidly reverses the effects of opioid overdose and is the standard treatment for opioid overdose. Today’s action paves the way for the life-saving medication to reverse an opioid overdose to be sold directly to consumers in places like drug stores, convenience stores, grocery stores and gas stations, as well as online. 
      The timeline for availability and price of this OTC product is determined by the manufacturer. The FDA will work with all stakeholders to help facilitate the continued availability of naloxone nasal spray products during the time needed to implement the Narcan switch from prescription to OTC status, which may take months. Other formulations and dosages of naloxone will remain available by prescription only. 
      Drug overdose persists as a major public health issue in the United States, with more than 101,750 reported fatal overdoses occurring in the 12-month period ending in October 2022, primarily driven by synthetic opioids like illicit fentanyl. 
      “The FDA remains committed to addressing the evolving complexities of the overdose crisis. As part of this work, the agency has used its regulatory authority to facilitate greater access to naloxone by encouraging the development of and approving an over-the-counter naloxone product to address the dire public health need,” said FDA Commissioner Robert M. Califf, M.D. “Today’s approval of OTC naloxone nasal spray will help improve access to naloxone, increase the number of locations where it’s available and help reduce opioid overdose deaths throughout the country. We encourage the manufacturer to make accessibility to the product a priority by making it available as soon as possible and at an affordable price.”   
      Narcan nasal spray was first approved by the FDA in 2015 as a prescription drug. In accordance with a process to change the status of a drug from prescription to nonprescription, the manufacturer provided data demonstrating that the drug is safe and effective for use as directed in its proposed labeling. The manufacturer also showed that consumers can understand how to use the drug safely and effectively without the supervision of a healthcare professional. The application to approve Narcan nasal spray for OTC use was granted priority review status and was the subject of an advisory committee meeting in February 2023, where committee members voted unanimously to recommend it be approved for marketing without a prescription. 
      The approval of OTC Narcan nasal spray will require a change in the labeling for the currently approved 4 mg generic naloxone nasal spray products that rely on Narcan as their reference listed drug product. Manufacturers of these products will be required to submit a supplement to their applications to effectively switch their products to OTC status. The approval may also affect the status of other brand-name naloxone nasal spray products of 4 mg or less, but determinations will be made on a case-by-case basis and the FDA may contact other firms as needed. 
      The use of Narcan nasal spray in individuals who are opioid dependent may result in severe opioid withdrawal characterized by body aches, diarrhea, increased heart rate (tachycardia), fever, runny nose, sneezing, goose bumps, sweating, yawning, nausea or vomiting, nervousness, restlessness or irritability, shivering or trembling, abdominal cramps, weakness and increased blood pressure.
      “Naloxone is a critical tool in addressing opioid overdoses and today’s approval underscores the extensive efforts the agency has undertaken to combat the overdose crisis,” said Patrizia Cavazzoni, M.D., director of the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. “The FDA is working with our federal partners to help ensure continued access to all forms of naloxone during the transition of this product from prescription status to nonprescription/OTC status. Further, we will work with any sponsor seeking to market a nonprescription naloxone product, including through an Rx to OTC switch, and encourage manufacturers to contact the agency as early as possible to initiate discussions.”
      The FDA has taken a series of measures to help facilitate access to naloxone products. In November 2022, the agency announced its preliminary assessment that certain naloxone products, such as the one ultimately approved today, have the potential to be safe and effective for over-the-counter use and encouraged sponsors to submit applications for approval of OTC naloxone products. The agency previously announced in 2019 that it had designed, tested, and validated a model naloxone Drug Facts Label (DFL) with easy-to-understand pictograms on how to use the drug to encourage manufacturers to pursue approval of OTC naloxone products. The model DFL was used to support the approved application along with the results of a simulated use Human Factors validation study designed to assess whether all the components of the product with which a user would interact could be used safely and effectively as intended.
      Through the FDA Overdose Prevention Framework, the agency remains focused on responding to all facets of substance use, misuse, substance use disorders, overdose and death in the U.S. The framework’s priorities include: supporting primary prevention by eliminating unnecessary initial prescription drug exposure and inappropriate prolonged prescribing; encouraging harm reduction through innovation and education; advancing development of evidence-based treatments for substance use disorders; and protecting the public from unapproved, diverted or counterfeit drugs presenting overdose risks.
       
      The FDA granted the OTC approval of Narcan to Emergent BioSolutions.
      https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-first-over-counter-naloxone-nasal-spray
      Read more...

      777 • 0

    • Government News
      GreenbrierJournal

      Greenbrier County Commission Scheduled Meeting

      GreenbrierJournal

      The Greenbrier County Commission held its scheduled meeting on March 28, 2023, to discuss several important issues affecting the county. One of the speakers was Mary Carr, a representative from the Children's Home Society, a local nonprofit organization that works to provide support and assistance to children in need, ensuring their safety and well-being. The society also partners with six other organizations in the area to address the issue of child abuse.
      The County Commission also signed a proclamation and agreed to host a Children's Memorial Flag Day Ceremony on April 28th at 12 pm, which will be held at the Greenbrier County Courthouse. The ceremony aims to bring awareness to April being Child Abuse Awareness Month. According to Child Protective Services, there were more than 3.1 million reported cases of child abuse in the US during 2022, an issue the organization is working to address. More information can be found at http://www.childhswv.org/.
      Additionally, during the meeting, the commission discussed the Quinwood broadband project and selected Steptoe & Johnson as the legal firm to work with the county regarding the project. The goal of the project is to expand high-speed internet access in the area and promote economic development. The commission hopes to receive updates on the project's progress and discuss any related issues.
      The commission approved a budget for the year, with an annual revenue of $17,937,037 and expenses totaling nearly $16.951,197. The budget aims to support various programs and services in the county, including public safety and infrastructure.
      Finally, the commission reminded residents that this is the last week to pay their taxes. Anyone who has not paid their taxes by Friday will be considered delinquent. The County Courthouse is open to receive tax payments during regular business hours, or they can be paid online.
      https://www.facebook.com/gbrcourthouse/videos/748552866678196
      Read more...

      594 • 0

    • Local News
      GreenbrierJournal

      The Giant Spring Flea Market Announced

      GreenbrierJournal

      Exciting news for West Virginia residents and visitors alike – The State Fair of West Virginia is pleased to announce the return of the Giant Spring Flea Market for 2023! The event is set to take place from May 19-21 at the State Fairgrounds in Lewisburg, WV.
      The Giant Spring Flea Market is a beloved tradition that draws vendors and shoppers from all over the region. It's an opportunity for people to come together and celebrate the arrival of spring while browsing through a vast selection of unique and interesting items.
      This year's event promises to be bigger and better than ever before, with a wide variety of vendors offering everything from handmade crafts and artisanal goods to vintage clothing and antiques. And with the State Fairgrounds' sprawling outdoor space, there's plenty of room for shoppers to safely explore and discover new treasures.
      Vendors interested in participating in the event can still secure a space by submitting their application before April 21, 2023, to take advantage of the early bird special and reserved spaces. The application is available online at bit.ly/SpringFleaMarket23, and for more information, vendors can call the SFWV Administration office at 304-645-1090.
      The State Fair of West Virginia is thrilled to welcome back the Giant Spring Flea Market and provide a fun and safe opportunity for the community to come together and support small businesses. So mark your calendars and get ready to shop 'til you drop at the Giant Spring Flea Market! #sfwv #westvirginia #lewisburgwv

      Read more...

      784 • 0

    • Sport News
      GreenbrierJournal

      Alderson Elementary Archery Team is going to the Nationals

      GreenbrierJournal

      In exciting news for the community of Alderson, West Virginia, the Alderson Elementary Archery Team has qualified for the National Archery in Schools Program (NASP) Nationals. This talented team of young archers secured their spot in the national tournament after winning the state tournament held over the weekend.
      The Alderson Elementary archery team competed against schools from all over West Virginia in the state tournament, showcasing their impressive skills and dedication to the sport. Their hard work paid off, as they emerged victorious and earned the opportunity to compete on a national stage.
      The NASP Nationals is a highly competitive tournament that brings together the top archery teams from across the United States. The tournament provides an opportunity for student athletes to showcase their talents, while also promoting the sport of archery and encouraging physical activity and healthy competition.
      The Alderson Elementary archery team has been preparing for this moment for months, practicing their aim and perfecting their technique under the guidance of their dedicated coaches. Their success is a testament to their hard work and commitment to excellence, and the entire community is proud of their achievements.
      The team will now turn their focus to preparing for the NASP Nationals, which will be held later this year. They will be up against some of the best archery teams in the country, but they are confident in their abilities and ready to take on the challenge.
      Congratulations to the Alderson Elementary Archery Team on their impressive victory at the state tournament, and best of luck to them as they prepare for the NASP Nationals. The community of Alderson is behind them all the way!
      Read more...

      945 • 0

    • Local News
      GreenbrierJournal

      The Old Seneca Health Services Building Demolish

      GreenbrierJournal

      The demolition work reportedly began on March 21st, with barricades being put up in the days leading up to the event. The demolition process is expected to take several days, with the entire building being razed to the ground.
      The Old Seneca Health Services Inc Building was once a medical center in the heart of downtown Lewisburg. However, after the center moved to a new location in Maxwelton, WV, the building has remained unoccupied for several years, falling into disrepair and becoming an eyesore for the community.
      The demolition of the building has received mixed reactions from the locals. While some have welcomed the decision, others have expressed concerns about what will be constructed in its place. Many have emphasized the need for more parking in downtown Lewisburg, which is often congested due to the limited number of parking spots.
      Only time will tell what will take the place of the old building. However, one thing is for sure: the demolition of the Old Seneca Health Services Inc Building marks the end of an era and the start of a new chapter in the history of downtown Lewisburg.
      Update 3-28-2023: GreenbrierJournal reached out to Lewisburg City Hall. Asking what would be constructed in the place of the old Seneca Healthcare Building. Still have not received a comment back. 


      Read more...

      627 • 0

    • State News
      GreenbrierJournal

      Gov. Justice announces return of Gold Rush stockings

      GreenbrierJournal

      Gov. Jim Justice announced today that the West Virginia Gold Rush will return for its sixth year on March 28, giving anglers 12 days to catch golden rainbow trout and win prizes.

      “Every year our incredible Gold Rush stockings bring more and more people to West Virginia to experience all of the goodness we have to offer,” Gov. Justice said. “As someone who’s fished his entire life, I can say that our beautiful lakes, streams, parks, and forests are truly special, and I can’t wait for folks to get out and enjoy them during the spring.”

      From March 28 to April 8, the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources will stock 50,000 golden rainbow trout at 68 lakes and streams around the state, including waters in or near 15 state parks and forests. Stocking locations and details about the Gold Rush can be found at WVdnr.gov/goldrush.

      Gov. Justice will kick off Gold Rush 2023 by ceremonially stocking the first fish on Monday, March 27, at Babcock State Park.
      https://governor.wv.gov/News/press-releases/2023/Pages/Gov.-Justice-announces-return-of-Gold-Rush-stockings.aspx
      Read more...

      485 • 0

    • Business News
      GreenbrierJournal

      Starbucks Scheduled To Open On March 31st 2023

      GreenbrierJournal

      Starbucks is scheduled to open its Lewisburg, WV location on March 31st, 2023. The highly anticipated opening of the new store has been met with mixed reactions from the community. While many people are excited about the arrival of the popular coffee chain, some business owners are concerned about the impact it could have on their establishments.
      The Greenbrier Journal reached out to Starbucks for a press inquiry but did not receive a response. However, after speaking with contractors currently working on the project, it has been confirmed that the new Starbucks store is indeed scheduled to open on March 31st, 2023. The contractors did mention that there could be potential construction delays, which is why an official announcement has not yet been made.
      Despite concerns from some business owners, many people in the community are eagerly anticipating the arrival of Starbucks. For coffee lovers, this is a dream come true. However, the Wild Bean local coffee shop in downtown Lewisburg has expressed concerns about the potential impact on their business.
      Another concern that has been raised is the location of the new Starbucks store. Some community members worry that it was placed in a bad location, which could lead to an increase in accidents at the intersection and even require a new stoplight. These concerns are yet to be addressed by the local authorities.
      Overall, the opening of the new Starbucks store is sure to generate buzz in Lewisburg. Whether you're excited about the new business coming to town or have concerns about its impact, there is no denying that Starbucks has a dedicated following and will likely attract many customers when it opens its doors on March 31st, 2023.
      Read more...

      7212 • 2

    • Business News
      GreenbrierJournal

      Greenbrier Valley Brewing Company To Close

      GreenbrierJournal

      As a craft brewery, Greenbrier Valley Brewing Company had a loyal following of customers who appreciated the quality of their beer. Their beers were known for their unique flavors and luxurious taste. However, as inflation rates rose, the cost of producing such high-quality beers became increasingly unaffordable.
      Furthermore, the COVID pandemic had a significant impact on tourism in West Virginia, which was another major source of income for the brewery. With people opting to travel to larger tourist destinations, Greenbrier Valley Brewing Company faced a lack of buyers for their products. The availability of record discounts by airlines also made it more enticing for consumers to travel elsewhere.
      Thomas Perkins, a former senate candidate, had previously warned against over-reliance on tourism. However, the brewery had put most of its eggs in one basket, and as tourism declined, the company faced financial difficulties.
      In its social media statement, the company expressed its gratitude to its customers, partners, and distributors for their support over the years. The statement also acknowledged the hard work of the employees who were the heart of the company and the soul of the finished product.
      Despite the closure, Greenbrier Valley Brewing Company remains optimistic about the future and hopes to return to the market in the future. In the meantime, the company urges consumers to support other West Virginia craft breweries, drink local, get out, explore, and bring beer.
      Read more...

      1148 • 0

  • Albums

×
×
  • Create New...