🌱 Wood County Votes Against American Water + New And Free Art Exhibit

Morning, neighbors. Danielle Fallon-O'Leary here with your fresh copy of the Parkersburg Patch newsletter, filled with all the things you need to know about what's happening in town.

But first, your local weather:

• Wednesday: Mostly sunny and beautiful. High: 72 Low: 39.
• Thursday: Mostly sunny and delightful. High: 80 Low: 57.

Here are the top three stories in Parkersburg today:

1. The Wood County Commission has decided to end discussions with West Virginia American Water regarding the potential purchase of their local public service districts. The commission voted against the water company's proposal due to concerns about potential rate increases for ratepayers in West Virginia. The commission expressed a desire to maintain control over local water and sewage rates and is exploring the consolidation of public service districts to lower costs. (WV Metro News)
2. "The Artistic Buffet" exhibit featuring the works of two West Virginia-based women artists, Jerre Watkins and Sandra King, will open at the Parkersburg Art Center on Friday. The exhibit showcases their nature-inspired art and vibrant abstractions, offering something for everyone's taste. The exhibit can be viewed from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday until Jun. 23, with free entry sponsored by WVU Medicine Camden Clark. (Parkersburg Sentinel)
3. The Fraternal Order of Police Officers Lodge 79 conducted its annual wreath-laying ceremony at the Parkersburg City Building to commemorate National Police Week. The ceremony also included an awards presentation with guest speaker Auditor J.B. McCuskey, who spoke about how West Virginia honors and respects police officers and how that has made the state a more desirable place to live for some. (Parkersburg Sentinel)

Today and tomorrow in and around Parkersburg:

Wednesday, May 17:

• Book Club For Kids At The Castle (3:00 PM)

Thursday, May 18:

• Open Sew/Machine Basics At BB2C Makerspace (5:30 PM)

From my notebook:

• The Taste of Parkersburg is a festival that combines food, wines, and music, making for a unique and unforgettable experience. Each year, the event continues to gain popularity, attracting food, wine, and beer enthusiasts from the region and beyond. This year's festival will take place on Saturday, Jun. 3. (Greater Parkersburg)
• Located in downtown Parkersburg, Julia-Ann Square is the largest and oldest historic district in West Virginia. Interested in exploring the area? Swing by the Welcome Center in Point Park to pick up a walking guide. (Greater Parkersburg CVB via Facebook)
• The Ohio River Sternwheel Festival 5K Run and Walk will be back in nearby Marrietta on May 27! The race begins at 8:00 a.m. and the first 250 participants will receive a t-shirt. (Facebook Events)

You're all caught up for today! I'll catch up with you bright and early soon with another update.

— Danielle Fallon-O'Leary

About me: Danielle Fallon-O’Leary is a content manager with content creation agency Lightning Media Partners and assists Patch.com with community newsletter curation. Danielle also holds a Master’s Degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders and works part-time as a pediatric speech therapist.