By Leann Ray | Editor-in-chief
“It may be a blessing in disguise — that’s what my friend said. It might be. Because before we just kept fixing up and picking up, and we can’t do it this time.” — Rhonda Walker, of Charleston, West Virginia, on the most recent flooding of her home
Rhonda Walker (left) and a friend go through Walker’s household items to determine what they can salvage and what to throw away after Sunday’s flood on Tuesday, Aug. 18, 2026. (Photo by Lori Kersey/West Virginia Watch)
By Lori Kersey and Caity Coyne
After 30 years of living in the same house on Garrison Avenue, Rhonda and Jerry Walker are planning to leave their Charleston home following Sunday’s flash flooding.
The couple suffered two previous flooding events, including losing everything to storms and flooding in April 2024. After that, they replaced the home’s floors and everything underneath them, she said.
Kayla Kessinger speaks at a news conference Tuesday, Aug. 18, 2026, following her appointment by Gov. Patrick Morrisey to head the state’s tourism agency. (West Virginia Office of Gov. Patrick Morrisey video screenshot)
By Caity Coyne
Gov. Patrick Morrisey announced Tuesday that Kayla Kessinger, a former member of the West Virginia House of Delegates, will take over as secretary for the state’s Department of Tourism following the departure of Chelsea Ruby.
NATIONAL
Dr. William Smock, medical director of the Training Institute on Strangulation Prevention, part of the Alliance for HOPE International, speaks to students about evidence and how to detect staged scenes during a mock crime scene exercise. This year, at least five states have considered “hidden homicide” legislation. (Photo courtesy of Gael Strack/Alliance for HOPE International)
By Amanda Watford
Families who believe local officials prematurely ruled their loved ones’ deaths suicides or accidents — rather than investigating whether domestic violence played a role — are pushing lawmakers in a growing number of states to require additional scrutiny.
By Ashley Murray
WASHINGTON — Historic preservationists asked the U.S. Supreme Court Tuesday to deny President Donald Trump’s appeal to continue construction on his $400 million White House ballroom on the grounds of the demolished East Wing.
ICYMI
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