Community News

The land purchase for the future Morgan County War Memorial Hospital is now complete. The property closing took place on Monday, February 26. Morgan County War Memorial Hospital is a county-owned facility.

The Morgan County Commission purchased the Edmonds/Christaldi land on Fairview Drive at a total cost of $1,458,600. Since the County Commission can't technically own land, the deed will be transferred to the Morgan County Building Commission within 30 days, said hospital administrator John Borg.

Whether you are a long-time resident or a newcomer to Morgan County, you may have heard the Cacapon River is "one of the cleanest rivers east of the Rockies." Even if you recognize this as a gross exaggeration, you may be shocked to know what is really in Cacapon's water.

A new U. S. Geological Survey report, found pesticides, flame retardants, pharmaceuticals and personal-care products, among other problems, in the Cacapon River. Many of these are harmful endocrine disrupters and there was even one substance, hexachlorobenzene, that was banned in 1966.

Water project representative Brian Martin of Thrasher Engineering reported to the Bath Town Council last week that 59% of the waterline project is completed.

This week, two crews will again be working. One crew will install water meters on Congress and Independence streets. The other crew will be digging to install water main up Market Street to Ewing Street and on Pratt Street.

Emily Riggs and Michael Moore were united in marriage on October 28, 2006 at the Macintosh Mansion in Spencer. Pastor Charles Schaeffer performed the double ring ceremony.

The bride is the daughter of Foster (Sonny) and Joyce Riggs of Berkeley Springs. The groom is the son of William and Berneice Moore of Walton.

Assistant Fire Chief Scott Michael from the South Morgan Volunteer Fire Company had some tips for area residents to keep their homes and families safe from fire.

Michael advised people to have dishwashers and other appliances installed by certified electricians. He's heard a lot of horrible wiring stories where homeowners did their own work.

Having just returned from a conference celebrating the 2007 state teachers of the year, it has become apparent to me what an honor this award actually is. It is humbling and energizing to be a part of such a group of education professionals. However, hearing the experiences of the representatives from other states, I am positive that my success is directly attributable to my students, my school, my county and my community.

In the short time I have lived in Morgan County, I have been allowed to teach and learn in ways that truly work for my students and for me. I have been given opportunities to create new curricula and to employ inventive teaching. I have received the administrative support of dedicated professionals and the collegial support of my peers. I have been admired and challenged by some of the best students in the state and I have been engaged in productive work with caring parents.

The Humane Society of Morgan County announces that a small group of generous supporters have donated $5,000 to create a special "Challenge Grant" for the community to match or exceed. These supporters are calling upon individuals, businesses, churches and civic organizations to take part in this challenge to help the animal shelter located on Route 522, south of Berkeley Springs.

These supporters urge the community to send whatever donations they can to try and match or beat their initial $5,000 grant in order to help the Humane Society through this financially-difficult winter period, to raise the community's awareness of the work done by the Humane Society, and to encourage a regular funding stream of donations throughout the year. The challenge kick-off is Wednesday, February 21. The Society hopes to reach or exceed its goal of $10,000 by March 17, St. Patrick's Day. Hence, this fundraiser has been called, "The St. Patrick's Day Matching Challenge."

WILLIAMS

Heather and Scott Williams of Harpers Ferry, announce the birth of their daughter Samantha Marie Williams on December 22, 2006, weighing 9 lbs., 3 oz. They have two other children, Griffith Williams, four years old and Jimmy Williams, two. Maternal grandparents are Kay and Charlie Williams of Berkeley Springs. Paternal grandparents are Carolyn and Danny Moler of Harpers Ferry.

When it comes time to prepare and file your 2006 tax return, make sure you don't overlook the federal excise tax refund credit.

Grebenstein-Casper

Genevieve M. Casper of Martinsburg announces the engagement of her daughter, Sherree Lynn Casper to Robert Alan Grebenstein, son of Barbara A. and Edward B. Grebenstein of Williamsport, Md. Her father is the late Clarence Casper.