Local Elections

Local governments must operate in the public eye A West Virginia deputy attorney general says that the town of Hedgesville's new budget may be illegal because elected officials violated the state's open meetings law when they adopted it. Town officials need to take corrective action as soon as possible. According to Deputy Attorney General Dawn Warfield, Hedgesville officials didn't notify the media of a special meeting that was held March 26 to pass the town's 2001-2002 budget.

It's two days before Christmas, but for many who've had the traditional tree up for several weeks, a pile of gifts stacked beneath its branches, there's still that nagging feeling that there's still something left undone. Let us suggest that perhaps it's time to spend a moment thinking about the needs of the community. We're talking about Washington County's United Way charitable appeal, which has now raised $1.2 million toward its $1.7 million goal. If you haven't made a pledge, it's important to do so now. The United Way's message of caring and community was harder for its volunteers to deliver this year, not only because of the local elections, but also due to events taking place on the national and international stage.

By JENNIFER LAM photos: RIC DUGAN / staff photographer Ever wonder what really happens at the polls during election days? This year, instead of munching on your cold cereal while watching your parents pull out of the driveway, go with them and vote yourself. Thanks to Kids Voting, a nationally recognized program that engages the parents and students in the democratic process, you can participate. --cont. from lifestyle youth-- The project is modeled after a program in Costa Rica, the country with the highest voter turnout of any Western democracy.