(WTAP) – Here’s a look at your afternoon headlines for Monday, March 30.
Warmer weather and rain are in the forecast this week Overall, we’re looking at a very warm and wet week in the MOV. We have more than one 80-degree day forecasted for the week, with the first one on Tuesday. We’re also looking at plenty of rain this week, with most of the rain expected Wednesday and Sunday, with off and on showers every day in-between. At this time, the heaviest of the rain will fall to our west and north, so we are not currently looking at any major flooding in the MOV as of yet
Several initiatives across the Mid-Ohio Valley are bringing new support to local families, students, and public safety – from expanded youth programming and rural health training to championship recognition and the return of an EMS service.
Parkersburg allocates $20,000 for YMCA youth scholarships The City of Parkersburg is putting $20,000 toward youth scholarships at the Parkersburg YMCA, aiming to expand access to after-school and summer programming for families who may not be able to afford it. Mayor Tom Joyce presented the check Monday morning at the YMCA. The money will support the YMCA’s Youth Scholarship Program, which the city said serves about 100 children each year through summer camp and another 200 through after-school programs. Officials said many participants come from low- to moderate-income households or are in the foster care system. The funding comes through the federal Community Development Block Grant program. Joyce said the investment also ties into broader workforce concerns. “Childcare availability is a real workforce and economic development issue,” Joyce said. “The YMCA offers programs that care for and educate children while allowing parents to work – it’s a win-win for families and employers alike.”
Ohio University and Anthem expand partnership to boost rural health care workforce training Ohio University and Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield announced an expansion of their partnership, adding $400,000 over three years to strengthen and broaden experiential learning opportunities for students preparing to serve rural and underserved communities. The additional funding will bolster an existing program focused on aging populations and create an expanded track to serve other vulnerable groups, including adults with chronic conditions and individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. University and Anthem officials said the expansion will embed at least 15 apprenticeship positions annually in approved community organizations and specialized medical providers, including Federally Qualified Health Centers serving Southeastern Ohio and the Athens region. Funding will help cover certification and training costs, faculty oversight and mentorship support, and provide resources to community partners who host students. Students from multiple programs are expected to participate, including Social Work, Public Health, Nursing, Food and Nutrition, Environmental Health, and Speech-Language Pathology. Since 2021, Anthem has pledged to invest nearly $500,000 in Ohio University’s rural health workforce efforts, including an endowment and microgrants, according to the university.
Wood County Commission honors three girls basketball teams The Wood County Commission started its Monday meeting by honoring three local girls basketball teams that represented the county at the state tournament earlier this month. Commissioners presented plaques to players and coaches from Parkersburg High, Parkersburg South, and Williamstown High schools. – Parkersburg High won the Class AAAA state title – Parkersburg South finished runner-up in Class AAAA – Williamstown High finished runner-up in Class AA Commissioner Jim Hamric, who organized the recognition, noted 2026 marks the 50th anniversary of girls basketball in West Virginia and said the local teams’ accomplishments deserved special recognition. Hamric also proclaimed Girls Basketball Day in Wood County, highlighting that Parkersburg High and South meeting in a championship game was the first time the two schools had faced off for a state title in any sport.
Newport EMS resumes operations Newport EMS has resumed operations as of March 26, according to board treasurer Justin Tidd. Tidd said the service has responded to four calls as of Monday morning. He said 10 EMT positions have been filled, with two more applicants still being processed. Newport EMS is still seeking paramedics to join the service.
