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Observer Weekly

jefferson county commission meets with wv legislators

Governor Pushes Tax Cuts, Flu Spreads, Libraries Full Of Activities

Observer Weekly January 8, 2026 Jefferson County, WV news & events The Governor and state legislators are heading to Charleston next week to open the 2026 legislative session. The House of Delegates wants to talk about investing for job creation and the Governor wants to talk about tax cuts. Nobody wants to talk about funding cuts. We’ll be following these conversations over the next two months, so stay tuned. In the meantime, stay healthy! — Steve Pearson If you value local journalism,...

Jefferson County Commission at meeting table

A Look Ahead At 2026

Observer Weekly January 1, 2026 Jefferson County, WV news & events For our first story of the year, we take a look at the key issues likely to dominate the County Commission’s discussions as it works on next year’s budget. We’ve also been tracking several local utility rate cases now under review by the WV Public Service Commission. In today’s story, we break down how two different methods of setting water and sewer rates work — and what they could mean for customers’ monthly bills. — Steve...

dog  bench in shepherdstown

Year-end Events & A Look Back At 2025

Observer Weekly December 24, 2025 Jefferson County, WV news & events In today’s issue, we look back at 2025 and share ideas for local, last-minute gifts. For The Observer, a 2025 highlight was being voted Best Small Local Newspaper in WV Living’s Best of West Virginia awards. If you enjoy our weekly publication, consider forwarding it to a friend or two — it’s free, thoughtful, and a personal recommendation from a reader is one of the best ways to support independent local journalism. Warm...

Ranson mayor Ken Suits and Charles Town mayor Mike George with Wally Goose

Wawa Comes To Town, Bike Path Plans, plus Last-Minute Shopping Options

Observer Weekly December 18, 2025 Jefferson County, WV news & events We’re excited to see that new businesses are coming to Jefferson County and our local governments are making plans to improve the livability of the community. As we prepare to wrap up 2025, we’d like to note our appreciation for the local businesses who advertise in the Observer Weekly. If you’d like to join them in promoting your business to our engaged readers across Jefferson County, you can email us at...

local charities receive donations from Rotary

Vigils, Donations, and Looking Forward To Legislative Session

Observer Weekly December 11, 2025 Jefferson County, WV news & events We’ve attended many holiday events and community gatherings this week. What we’re seeing around the county is a lot of festivity and a lot of generosity. The weather may be a bit cold, but there are a lot of warm hearts around here. — Steve Pearson Every week, The Observer digs into the details that matter in Jefferson County. Our content is free for everyone to read, but producing well-researched local news isn’t free. If...

mrs claus and santa during parade

Housing Growth Sets Record, Another Roundabout, and Lots of Events

Observer Weekly December 4, 2025 Jefferson County, WV news & events There are lots of holiday festivities this weekend. On Friday evening, Bolivar & Harpers Ferry kick off Olde Tyme Christmas. The Shepherdstown Christmas Parade is Saturday morning, followed by the Charles Town-Ranson Christmas Parade on Saturday afternoon. Scroll down for our complete Activities & Events listings. — Steve Pearson Every week, The Observer digs into the details that matter in Jefferson County. Our content is...

fiber optic cables being buried in ground

Data Center Rules Published, Summit Point Grant Gets Green Light

Observer Weekly November 26, 2025 Jefferson County, WV news & events Happy Thanksgiving! We’re publishing a day early this week so we can enjoy some time with our family on Thursday. We hope to see you around the county this weekend for the many festivities that kick off the holiday season. — Steve Pearson Every week, The Observer digs into the details that matter in Jefferson County. Our content is free for everyone to read, but producing well-researched local news isn’t free. If you value...