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With autumn quickly approaching, the West Virginia Department of Tourism has unveiled its highly anticipated fall foliage projection map. Created in collaboration with the West Virginia Division of Forestry, this map predicts when and where fall foliage will appear across the state, helping travelers plan the perfect autumn trip to the third most forested state in the U.S. Summer rainfall totals have set the stage for exceptional color this season.
“West Virginia’s mountains are poised to put on one of their most breathtaking shows yet,” said West Virginia Division of Forestry Director Jeremey Jones.

“With the wet summer and perfect mix of warm days and crisp nights, we’re expecting vibrant reds, brilliant oranges, and golden yellows to sweep across the hillsides this fall.”
Starting mid-September, the Department of Tourism will roll out weekly travel-ready itineraries highlighting some of the best destinations and adventures for enjoying vibrant color.
These curated itineraries can be found on West Virginia Tourism’s social media channels and at wvtourism.com/press-releases.
Join the West Virginia Tourism Instagram Broadcast Channel to be among the first to hear about fall happenings in West Virginia and unlock exclusive offers.
An invite will be sent to all followers, or they can access the join link under the “Fall” highlight.
“There are still a few weeks of summer left, but it’s never too early to start planning a trip to experience West Virginia’s stunning fall foliage,” said West Virginia Department of Tourism Secretary Chelsea Ruby.
“Thanks to above-average rainfall this summer, the fall colors are expected to really show off. Head to our website for inspirational fall content and trip planning tips. There’s no better place to spend this season than in Almost Heaven!”
Travelers are invited to share their autumn photos using #AlmostHeaven for a chance to be featured on social media channels.
Beginning late September, the department’s live leaf tracker will also showcase photos shared with #AlmostHeaven and will be updated in real time, offering a glimpse into the current conditions.
In addition, the Department of Tourism plans to re-launch the popular statewide Paranormal Trail and feature new spine-chilling stops.
To keep tabs on all things autumn in Almost Heaven, visit wvtourism.com/fall.
Photo credit: W.Va. Department of Tourism.

Deputy apprehends suspect after observing reckless driving

On July 3, 2025, Grant County Sheriff’s Deputy, J.M. Rohrbaugh, was stationed at Sheetz, located at 299 Bryan Street in Petersburg. Rohrbaugh observed a red Kia SUV pull into a parking spot across from him with a male driver, Roger Wayne Mongold, whom Deputy Rohrbaugh identified from prior interactions. To the deputy’s knowledge, Mongold did not possess a valid driver’s license. A check of his plate revealed his license was currently suspended.

WVU Medicine Grant Memorial Hospital recently hosted a community leader meeting and luncheon to discuss the latest developments. The hospital is continuing to grow its services for the community, with several new additions already in place and more on the horizon.
The hospital is now staffed with WVU Emergency Medicine Physicians as of August 1. Services now provide a 3T MRI on-site, as well as outpatient sleep studies and a virtual ICU. Additionally, there has been an expansion of lab testing services, which now include iron studies, urine drug screens, fentanyl drug testing, and B12 testing, among others.

Family Traditions Café, located on Virginia Avenue beside the long-standing Family Traditions Restaurant, is quickly becoming a local favorite for coffee, smoothies and more.
Owner Jordan Ketterman says the café is about more than just drinks. Her mission is to create a welcoming space. As someone who has struggled in the past, Jordan wants to help break the stigma surrounding mental health and open up lines of communication with her customers and the community.

BACK IN TIME - Fort Mulligan Day took place in Petersburg, featuring a live history lesson and various engaging activities for visitors

Bambino’s has entered a new chapter. The restaurant’s new owner brings 23 years of experience, a passion for the restaurant business, and an appreciation for this small community. 
The menu that locals know and love remains the same. However, the owner encourages customers to try his personal favorite: the hearty Spaghetti Bambino meal. Guests can also look forward to daily specials, an upcoming parking lot upgrade, and the addition of an alcohol license that is currently in progress.
Bambino’s provides dine-in, carry-out, and DoorDash delivery options for your convenience, continuing to offer delicious food in a welcoming atmosphere. 
Carlos wishes to express his sincere appreciation to Mateo and Ada Romero for allowing him to start his own business, rent the building, and ultimately purchase it. He would also like to thank every customer and the entire community for their support throughout this journey. He is grateful to be part of such a welcoming town. 

During the most recent board of education meeting of the Grant County school district, it was announced that the Pre-K students will be moving into their new facility just before or immediately after Labor Day. Students and staff can move into the facility when it reaches 95% completion; contractors can finish the remaining work on weekends or during Thanksgiving break. 
The gym floor at PES is not scheduled to be waxed as a new one is planned for installation. The cafeteria will not be waxed until Thanksgiving break due to ongoing construction and traffic issues.