AGP Executive Report

Flood Recovery in West Virginia: Severe storms and flooding have destroyed 33 homes in Upshur and Lewis counties, with officials confirming tornado damage in Barbour; Gov. Patrick Morrisey is pushing for an expedited major disaster declaration as cleanup and debris removal ramp up. Local Relief Efforts: Community groups and volunteers are coordinating to deliver essentials and help families affected by the storms, including where to get supplies in Lewis and Upshur. Public Safety & Courts: West Virginia Delegate Elliott Pritt resigned from the House of Delegates after a federal arrest on charges involving a 15-year-old student; he waived hearings and remains in federal custody. Health Access: WVU Medicine’s mobile lung cancer screening unit, LUCAS, is scheduled to visit Randolph and Lewis counties in late August for low-dose CT scans, with appointments required in advance. Energy & Jobs: Dominion Energy announced plans for a new natural gas power plant at Mt. Storm, projecting major construction and permanent jobs. Food Safety: The national Cyclospora outbreak continues to spread, with West Virginia included among states under investigation.

Severe Weather & Flood Recovery: The National Weather Service says multiple rounds of strong to severe thunderstorms could hit West Virginia through Tuesday, with damaging wind gusts, heavy rain, and localized flash flooding risks. Public Health: A free vaccine clinic is underway at Vandalia Health Mon Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital in Weston, offering free tetanus and Hepatitis shots for people exposed during flood recovery and cleanup. Courts & Crime: A federal sentencing date has been set for Jeffrey Phares, a North Central West Virginia cemetery owner who pleaded guilty to wire fraud; he faces up to 20 years and restitution for about 225 victims and more than $600,000 in unfulfilled grave marker orders. Politics: West Virginia Republicans’ executive committee is moving to disavow Del. Elliott Pritt after his arrest on federal charges involving a minor. Sports (WV): WVU football adjusted its schedule—its 2027 opener vs. Ohio will be played as a Week 0 game on Aug. 28. Youth Sports: Mineral County’s 12U All-Stars ended a standout run just short of the state title game, falling 6-5 in the semifinals to Shady Spring. Food Safety: The national cyclosporiasis outbreak linked to contaminated lettuce continues to expand, with Michigan reporting 9,253 cases.

Flood Recovery & Disaster Aid: Gov. Patrick Morrisey formally requested an expedited major disaster declaration after last week’s flooding in Upshur and Lewis counties, seeking federal individual and public assistance plus statewide hazard mitigation. Local Law & Order: A supermajority of House Republicans is pushing for a special session to expel Del. Elliott Pritt after federal charges involving inappropriate contact with a child, while the state’s election officials say he remains eligible unless disqualified. Health Watch: The CDC and FDA expanded the cyclosporiasis outbreak tied to shredded iceberg lettuce to nine states, now including West Virginia, as lawsuits and economic fallout continue. Power & Industry: Pleasants Power Station filed for voluntary Chapter 11 in Delaware to restructure and support a sale process while aiming to keep operations running. Community & Culture: WVU men’s basketball players delivered donations to flood-hit Weston, and the Upper Vandalia Historical Society hosted a discussion on the Underground Railroad. Sports: Bill White, a Warren native, received the Buck O’Neil Lifetime Achievement Award at the Baseball Hall of Fame.

Severe Weather & Recovery: Gov. Patrick Morrisey is seeking expedited federal disaster help for Barbour, Doddridge, Harrison, Lewis, Pleasants, Ritchie and Upshur counties after deadly storms, including tornadoes and catastrophic flooding. Flash Flood Emergency: The National Weather Service upgraded central Upshur County to a Flash Flood Emergency, urging people around Buckhannon and nearby areas to move to higher ground as life-threatening water inundated roads and underpasses. Cyclospora Outbreak: The FDA and CDC expanded the multistate cyclosporiasis investigation tied to recalled iceberg lettuce, now reaching 9 states with nearly 2,000 confirmed illnesses and dozens of hospitalizations, including cases reported in West Virginia. Local Governance & Safety: West Virginia issued a State of Preparedness for all 55 counties as officials warned of damaging winds, severe storms, flash flooding and isolated tornadoes. Community & Sports: West Virginia Week highlighted the flood aftermath, a delegate facing criminal charges, and the 2026 National Scouting Jamboree bringing more than 10,000 scouts to the state.

Flash Flood Emergency: The National Weather Service upgraded central Upshur County to a Flash Flood Emergency, calling it a “Particularly Dangerous Situation” as Buckhannon and nearby areas saw rapid, life-threatening flooding; officials urged residents to move to higher ground and avoid flooded roads. State Response & Recovery: Gov. Patrick Morrisey issued a statewide state of preparedness and is now seeking an expedited major disaster declaration for multiple counties, while crews shift from search-and-rescue to debris removal, road repairs, and damage assessments. Community Impact: In Buckhannon, residents described sudden downtown inundation and swift rescues, with neighbors rallying to donate supplies and help families. Public Safety: West Virginia State Police are investigating a Preston County case involving an unresponsive 8-year-old found in a vehicle; the driver, a Pennsylvania woman, faces child endangerment charges. Health Alert: The CDC and FDA expanded the cyclospora outbreak linked to recalled lettuce to nine states, with West Virginia among those reporting cases. Local News: A Marion County missing resident was found alive after a multi-agency search.

Cyclospora Outbreak Update: The CDC says the multistate cyclospora outbreak tied to recalled iceberg lettuce has now reached nine states, with 1,947 illnesses and 98 hospitalizations linked to Taco Bell-related lettuce, including West Virginia among the affected. Flood Recovery in WV: Gov. Patrick Morrisey is pushing recovery after Tuesday’s tornadoes and flooding, with National Guard crews and state agencies shifting from rescue to cleanup across Upshur and other hard-hit counties. State Government Fallout: Morrisey says he’ll pursue a special session if Fayette Delegate David Elliott Pritt doesn’t resign after federal criminal charges. Local Crime Case: West Virginia State Police charged a Huntington man after a probe turned up a stolen SUV and narcotics. Sports & Local Talent: West Virginia pitcher Bryson Hoff shared his path after offseason surgery for a UCL tear, and West Liberty softball coach Sara Pelegreen was named head coach at Robert Morris. Workforce Pell: A major federal change lets eligible students use Pell Grants for certain short workforce programs as brief as eight weeks.

Cyclospora Outbreak Update: The CDC and FDA expanded the multistate cyclosporiasis investigation tied to shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell, adding Illinois, Kansas, Oklahoma and Pennsylvania to the list of states already including Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio and West Virginia; officials say 1,947 people are sick in nine states, with 98 hospitalizations and no reported deaths, while regulators keep tracing the supply chain and Taylor Farms continues to respond. Flood Recovery in West Virginia: Gov. Patrick Morrisey toured damage with the National Guard and reiterated that search and rescue remains the top priority as recovery shifts to debris removal, infrastructure repairs and damage assessments; state officials report thousands of responders statewide and ongoing hazardous conditions from saturated ground and elevated waterways. Upshur County Flood Deaths Identified: West Virginia State Police released the names of two people who died in the flooding—Judy A. Young, 59, and James J. Harper, 61—after a vehicle was recovered from the Stonecoal Lake area. Severe Weather Confirmed: The National Weather Service confirmed an EF-1 tornado touched down in Hampshire County and moved into Frederick County, leaving a damage path and widespread tree damage. State Public Safety Program: Morrisey launched the Blue Envelope Program, giving drivers with autism, dementia or intellectual/developmental disabilities a blue envelope with key information to help make traffic stops safer and less stressful. Local Governance: Monongalia County approved a zoning map amendment near West Run and Stewartstown roads that would shift parcels from low-density residential to general commercial, despite infrastructure concerns raised by planning and state highway officials. Community & Youth: WVU’s Energy Express won a three-year AmeriCorps grant to expand its free summer literacy and nutrition program for low-income and rural children. Ballot Status: West Virginia Secretary of State Kris Warner said Delegate Elliott Pritt remains eligible for the 2026 ballot unless disqualified under state law.

Cyclospora Update: Federal health officials say the explosive diarrhea parasite outbreak tied to shredded iceberg lettuce has expanded to nine states—Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania and West Virginia—with more than 4,100 lab-confirmed cases nationwide since May 1 and the CDC warning the real number is likely higher because many people recover without testing. Public Health Response: The CDC has sent “disease detectives” to Ohio as cases there keep climbing, while the FDA is also investigating a separate cyclospora cluster affecting at least 72 people. Local Impact: West Virginia is now part of the linked outbreak, and officials continue urging residents to watch for recalled or suspect produce and seek testing if symptoms persist. Politics & Accountability: West Virginia House Speaker Roger Hanshaw is asking Gov. Jim Justice to call a special session to consider expelling Delegate D. Elliott Pritt after his federal arrest on charges involving a minor. Energy & Economy: AAA reports the national gas average jumped 15 cents to $4.09, and a National Coal Council update says new recommendations could support West Virginia’s coal industry and exports. Sports: Bridgeport Little League’s 10-12 team advanced in the state tournament with a no-hitter, setting up Friday’s championship game.

Severe Weather & Flood Recovery: West Virginia’s flash-flood disaster in Upshur and surrounding counties has moved into recovery, but the toll is now confirmed: two deaths reported, with search-and-rescue still underway and the National Guard deployed across the state as roads reopen and power returns. Food Safety: A nationwide cyclosporiasis surge tied to lettuce continues to ripple through West Virginia and beyond, with health officials tracking cases and warning residents to wash produce carefully while investigators work to pin down sources. Elections & Voting Rights: The Trump DOJ is appealing losses in voter-roll cases, pushing its fight into more federal appeals courts after failing to win orders requiring states to hand over unredacted voter files. Sports & Community: Bridgeport Little League is headed to the state championship after a no-hitter, while Gov. Morrisey welcomed more than 15,000 Scouts to the National Scout Jamboree at the Summit Bechtel Reserve. Local Government: Kanawha County’s commission vacancy remains unresolved for now, moving to the Republican Executive Committee after commissioners couldn’t agree on an appointee.

Flood Recovery in West Virginia: Torrential storms brought flash flooding and damaging winds across the state, leading Gov. Patrick Morrisey to declare a state of emergency for all 55 counties and deploy hundreds of National Guard members as search-and-rescue continues; officials say about 1,000 homes and businesses were damaged and at least two people were unaccounted for. Disaster Relief & Scams: The Red Cross is expanding shelter and cleanup support, while WVRC Media is holding a flood supply drive Friday; officials also warn residents to watch for disaster-related scams and to verify any contractor or charity. Legal Fallout in Fayette County: West Virginia Delegate Elliott Pritt, a teacher, will remain in federal custody after a federal charge alleging enticement of a minor, with a preliminary hearing set for July 27. Elections Watch: West Virginia voters will decide in November whether to add a citizenship requirement to the state Constitution for voting. Public Health Alert (Cyclospora): The FDA is investigating a new cyclospora cluster affecting at least 72 people as nationwide cases keep climbing, with federal officials still working to identify sources amid the broader outbreak. Invasive Species: Spotted lanternfly has been confirmed in Kanawha County for the first time, prompting residents to report sightings.

Severe Weather & Flood Response: West Virginia is reeling after torrential rain triggered catastrophic flash flooding, washing out roads and bridges and forcing dozens of rescues; Gov. Patrick Morrisey declared a state of emergency for all 55 counties and sent hundreds of National Guard members as officials warned some residents may be unaccounted for. Local Relief Efforts: In Upshur and Lewis counties, officials say 911 lines were down at one point and shelters opened, with specific hotlines and donation drop-offs announced for flood victims. Storm Aftermath Outlook: With the worst storms moving on, the region is seeing calmer conditions, but more rain chances are expected later in the week. Community & Culture: The West Virginia Black Heritage Festival announced its 2026 lineup and weekend schedule in Clarksburg, featuring tribute acts and local performers. Sports: Bridgeport Little League advanced to the state 10-12 semifinals after a dominant win, and the National Scout Jamboree is set to bring about 12,000 scouts to Fayette County at Bechtel Summit.

Flash Flood Emergency: Severe storms slammed West Virginia with flash flooding, landslides, and washed-out roads, leading Gov. Patrick Morrisey to declare a state of emergency for all 55 counties and deploy the National Guard for rescues and debris pickup; officials reported 85 DNR rescues and 310 Guard personnel, with shelters opened and 911/phone disruptions reported in hard-hit areas. Public Safety & Recovery: The National Weather Service issued life-threatening warnings, including a “Particularly Dangerous Situation” flash flood alert, as crews worked through the night and Interstate 79 stayed closed in the Weston area. Health Watch: A multistate cyclosporiasis outbreak tied to recalled lettuce continues to surge, with CDC reporting more than 11,500 cases across 41 states and ongoing uncertainty about the full scope. State Utility Update: The West Virginia Public Service Commission approved a plan to set aside $60 million to preserve landline phone service, while keeping final project and disbursement approvals with the commission. Community & Culture: Clarksburg’s West Virginia Black Heritage Festival is set for Sept. 11-13 with live music, dance, and tribute shows. Sports: Bridgeport advanced in Little League with a shutout win and will play for a state semifinal spot, while local youth programs like Shoot Hoops drew crowds despite the wet weather.

Severe Weather & Flooding: Gov. Patrick Morrisey declared a statewide State of Emergency for all 55 West Virginia counties as flash flooding, landslides, and road closures spread. I-79 shut down between Weston and Jane Lew, and DNR reported 33 water rescues. In central Upshur County, the National Weather Service upgraded conditions to a Flash Flood Emergency, warning residents to move to higher ground. Cyclospora Update: The CDC says cyclosporiasis cases have surged to 4,173 lab-confirmed cases across 41 states, with hundreds hospitalized. The outbreak remains tied to shredded iceberg lettuce linked to Taylor Farms, even as regulators and company statements continue to shift. State Government: Morrisey named Carl E. Ayers as the new Human Services secretary. Education Oversight: The West Virginia Board of Education approved a partial state intervention in Harrison County Schools after concerns over staffing, governance, and special education standards. Public Safety: A DUI wreck in Barbour County injured two elderly people. Local Crime: Cabell County authorities say a mother and her two children were stabbed to death; a suspect faces first-degree murder charges.

Water & Utilities: A new look at West Virginia’s water problem says many small systems are failing, with nearly 30% of issues tied to Drinking Water Act violations and weak enforcement. Public Health: The cyclospora outbreak tied to shredded iceberg lettuce remains under investigation, even as Mexico’s health minister says there’s no proof Mexican lettuce caused the U.S. illnesses and FDA has said one earlier positive test was a false positive; cases are still being reported across multiple states including West Virginia. Invasive Species: Spotted lanternfly has been confirmed in Kanawha County, with officials urging residents to report sightings and noting the pest has few natural predators here. Local Government Oversight: PSC staff reviewed complaints against Preston County Public Service District No. 1, found no misconduct for a criminal referral, but issued eight recommendations to fix oversight and internal controls. Community & Culture: Bluefield’s Hotel Thelma’s Cafe is set for rehabilitation after a $100,000 grant aimed at preserving Black history. Weather & Safety: Severe storms and flooding risk are highlighted for West Virginia Tuesday, and WVDNR is reminding boaters and swimmers at Cheat Lake to wear life jackets and plan ahead. SNAP: August 2026 SNAP payments begin next week, with dates varying by state.

Food Safety Update: Federal regulators say a Taylor Farms lettuce test was a “false positive” for cyclospora, but the FDA insists the outbreak investigation still points to shredded iceberg lettuce from central Mexico, keeping the recall in place as cases tied to Taco Bell-linked lettuce continue across Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio and West Virginia. Public Health Numbers: Virginia’s confirmed cyclosporiasis cases have risen to 79, with the state saying it’s not an “outbreak” by CDC definitions, while Alabama reported 28 cases as of July 20. Local Government: Charleston City Council approved lighting, sidewalk and road repair projects, including major funding for Charleston Fire Department station renovations and sidewalk improvements. Energy & Infrastructure: The West Virginia PSC announced broadband expansion progress and opened a public comment period on electric grid capacity requirement governance; in Weston, council formally opposed the Valley North Transmission Line. School Clothing: West Virginia’s School Clothing Voucher applications opened Monday after delays tied to a TANF review, helping families prepare for the new school year. Weather & Safety: Western Pennsylvania remains under air quality and severe storm concerns, and West Virginia officials continue pushing for safety upgrades like cable barriers on dangerous I-77 stretches.

Emergency Response: Gov. Jim Morrisey declared a State of Emergency for Barbour County after severe flooding washed out bridges, damaged water lines and forced road closures; the order lets state agencies coordinate and mobilize help for recovery. New DHS Leadership: Morrisey named Carl E. Ayers as the new West Virginia Department of Human Services secretary, tasking him with modernizing operations and improving services for children and families. Public Safety—Health: Salem Correctional Center is dealing with air conditioning problems in some housing units, with temporary fixes and monitoring underway. Food Safety: The FDA walked back a Cyclospora link tied to Taylor Farms lettuce, calling the positive test a false positive, but the company’s voluntary recall remains as investigators keep searching for the true source; the outbreak has sickened people across five states including West Virginia. Weather Watch: Tuesday brings a high risk of damaging winds, heavy rain and possible tornadoes, with flash flooding concerns. Local Notes: School Clothing Allowance applications are open again; West Virginia’s Sales Tax Holiday runs July 31–Aug. 3.