Blame It On A “Stretched Polar Vortex”

January 21, 2026 5:56 pm

WASHINGTON (AP) — Meteorologists warn that a stretched polar vortex could bring severe winter weather to much of the United States. This week, warm Arctic waters and cold continental land are combining to send subzero temperatures, heavy snow, and ice across the eastern two-thirds of the country. The frigid conditions are expected to persist through January and into early February. Experts say the atmospheric pattern is set, with the potential for crippling ice and snow. The National Weather Service cautions about power outages and treacherous travel conditions. The Midwest and North could see temperatures as low as 30 degrees below zero.  (Photo:  AP)

Nemacolin Woodlands Announces Mass Layoffs

January 21, 2026 5:45 pm

One of the region’s biggest employers is letting go of a large group of employees. According to reports that have not been confirmed by the officials, at least 144 employees of Nemacolin Woodlands Resort were informed on Tuesday that they were being dismissed. As for why, a statement from the Fayette County resort said the workforce reduction followed changes in available room inventory that have impacted guest volume and operational demand. Officials there said that, while difficult, these adjustments are intended to position Nemacolin for long-term stability, and the company extends its sincere appreciation to all associates for their dedication and service. The resort is now owned by Maggie Hardy, the owner and CEO of 84 Lumber. Her father, Joseph hardy, founded both 84 Lumber and Nemacolin Woodlands.

One Man In Custody After Brief Stand-Off

January 21, 2026 5:16 pm

Washington Police say they were called out, along with several other departments, around twelve-thirty Wednesday morning, to assist police in East Washington Borough following reports of shots fired in the area of the four-hundred block of East Beau Street. Authorities say shots were fired but there were no reports of any injuries, and after a short stand-off, an adult male was taken into custody. Police say no further information is being released at this time.

Trump Cancels Tariff Threat In Bid For Greenland

January 21, 2026 2:47 pm

DAVOS, Switzerland (AP) — President Donald Trump says he’s canceling his tariff threat on several European nations in his push for U.S. control of Greenland after coming to terms with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte on a “framework of a future deal” on Arctic security. Trump’s announcement Wednesday on social media came soon after he said in a speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos that he was backing off his threat of using military force to seize the Danish territory that he says is crucial to U.S. national security.  (Photo:  AP)

Man In Custody After Reported Standoff

January 20, 2026 4:50 am

Few details are available but Police are investigating a reported standoff in the 400 block of East Beau Street in East Washington early Wednesday morning.   Washington County 9-1-1 confirmed that shots were fired but it is unclear if they were fired at police. According to reports, a suspect was wanted on an outstanding warrant.  An unidentified man is said to be in custody.

City Police Search For Credit Card Fraud Suspects

January 21, 2026 5:05 am

Washington City Police are looking for help to identify two male suspects in connection with a recent fraud-related incident.  Police say it happened Saturday evening at a local business in the 600-block of Jefferson Avenue.  Police say they tried to buy more than $400 worth of merchandise by a asking the cashier to manually enter the credit card numbers rather than using a physical card.  A short time later,  police say they returned and asked to make another similar purchase using a different card number.  While that transaction was being processed the business received a call from someone outside the United States saying that their card had just been used without authorization.  Both transactions were voided and most of the merchandise was returned.  The men then fled the scene.  Police are asking anyone with information to contact them.

Area Man Takes Plea In Apartment Building Arson

January 21, 2026 2:29 am

A California man accused of setting fire to his own apartment and then jumping from the building entered a guilty plea to one count of arson. Christopher Grasty, 40 will receive 3-6 years in prison. According to court records, in March of 2024, Grasty started a fire in his unit of the California Manor. The 30 unit complex is owned by the Washington County Housing Authority. The fire damaged 6 apartments and displaced 29 other residents and caused $750,000 in damage. In taking the plea to the single charge, Grasty avoided punishment on several other charges. He was charged with 27 counts of arson, 26 counts of reckless endangerment along with causing a catastrophe, risking a catastrophe and criminal mischief.

North Strabane Gets New Year Started

January 21, 2026 4:45 am

North Strabane Township is not waiting to get their new year started. Items discussed at their agenda meeting will have supervisors considering several operational measures. They will consider authorizing the advertisement for the road paving program. They will also approve preliminary steps to hire a police lieutenant and a firefighter. Advertisements to authorize an ordinance that will allow the dissolution of the Parks and Recreation Board will also be considered. Finally, supervisors will look to approve amendments to their licenses and permits ordinance that governs fees for amusement devices. Voting will take place on January 27.

Trump Says He Won’t Use Force To Acquire Greenland

January 20, 2026 5:19 am

DAVOS, Switzerland (AP) — President Donald Trump insists he won’t use force to acquire Greenland. Trump was speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, where he criticized Europe and emphasized the U.S. should have control over Greenland. Trump’s comments come amid tensions with allies over potential tariffs on Denmark and others. Trump’s arrival in Davos was delayed by an electrical issue on Air Force One. He plans to discuss housing affordability and the “Board of Peace” to oversee a ceasefire in Israel’s conflict with Hamas. European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, have expressed concerns over Trump’s policies and their impact on global stability.

Trump’s Greenland Threats Spark Outrage

January 20, 2026 5:22 am

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump’s push to control Greenland has sparked major tensions with Europe. Leaders there are warning Trump’s threat of tariffs over Greenland policy could damage the NATO alliance. On Tuesday, the EU’s top official called Trump’s planned tariffs a “mistake.” French President Emmanuel Macron suggested the EU might retaliate with a trade “bazooka.” Trump is set to attend the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. European leaders are determined to defend Denmark’s control over Greenland. Greenland’s leader insists on respect for its territorial integrity. Trump’s actions have led to diplomatic tensions and potential countermeasures from Europe.