West Virginia Attorney General JB McCuskey announced earlier this week that the state has agreed to sign on to a $7.4 billion settlement with Purdue Pharma and its owners, the Sackler Family.  Fifty-five US states and territories are part of the settlement, with Maryland set to receive up to $90 million, and West Virginia set to receive as much as $53 million from the settlement, but on an accelerated payment schedule due to the disproportionate impact opioid drugs have had on the state, according to McCuskey.  The settlement also ends the Sacklers’ control of Purdue Pharma and their ability to…

The story reported by a local radio station and posted on social media regarding Chief Chuck Ternent’s employment status with the City of Cumberland needs correction and clarification.  After 32 years of loyal service to the City of Cumberland and its citizens,  Chief Ternent has, for some time, been contemplating retirement in order to pursue other career opportunities which have become available. Recently, Chief Ternent has been off work addressing some health issues. In his absence, Lt. Eric Bonner will serve as Acting Chief.

On Thursday June 19th,2025 the Cumberland Police Department arrested Aaron Lee Dersin, 37, of Cumberland, MD. Dersin was arrested as a fugitive from justice when it was learned that he had an active arrest warrant issued for him in Mineral County, WV. The original West Virginia Warrant charges Dersin with felony conspiracy. He was taken before a District Court Commissioner for an Initial Appearance where he was remanded to the Allegany County Detention Center. He is currently being held without bond, and is awaiting extradition.  ARRESTED:  Aaron Lee Dersin  Age: 37 CHARGES: Fugitive From Justice 

Housing at the new Villages at Campobello will offer something for everyone looking for a new home.  Builder D.R. Horton plans three models that Adam Strott of Allegany County Economic Development has seen in Winchester and Martinsburg…    “I’ve had a chance to tour every model that they’re going to market at this site including the rancher as well as the villa which is primarily first-story living. So villa, townhome, and then the Deerfield which is a two-story.” Strott said the build-out is above basic in material and amenity…     “All granite countertops for example, a dedicated laundry room….

The American Red Cross is always looking for individuals willing to give blood and during summer vacation season there is usually a slump in giving due to pattern changes in regular givers, according to Jason Keeling from the American Red Cross…     “The need for blood is constant, but there are certain times throughout the year where making a donation is even more needed. During holiday seasons and summer, people tend to be on vacation, schools are out, and so places that we normally collect may not be as active.”

Cumberland Economic Development Director Matt Miller has been recognized by Jaycees International as one of JCI USA’s Ten Outstanding Young Americans for 2025. The honor goes to individuals who exemplify excellence in leadership, service, and impact. Miller serves on the board of the ACM Foundation, the Western Maryland Jaycees and is instrumental in the annual Tri-State Wing Off in addition to his support for economic development.

Local provider SkyPacket is continuing to roll out improvements to their fixed wireless internet services.  SkyPacket has been located in the Cumberland area since 2004, serving most Allegany and Mineral county households.  CEO Todd Tanner spoke with WCBC recently, saying that internet service starts at $35 a month and the company has been expanding its reach…      “We have 4g and 5g. We have CBRS. We have some great technology that’s being deployed. Our newest one, which is a lot of fun, is up on top of Dans Mountain and it has a great reach. And it just came…

Both the US Senate and House of Representatives are mulling war powers resolutions preventing the country from becoming directly involved in the conflict between Iran and Israel.  The US has provided weaponry and intelligence to the Israelis while President Trump – so far – has taken a diplomatic route to finding a peace.  According to Maryland Senator and Democrat Chris Van Hollen, the Republican Party is split on a declaration of war…     “Among Republicans, there’s a real split on the issue. You’ve got the bombs-away on Iran today group and then you’ve got those who said, you know,…

The flooding in mind-May had minimal impact on most of Cumberland, but the Riverside Recreation Area in South Cumberland was hit hard. The area has been closed for weeks, forcing softball and soccer teams to find alternate venues for practice and play. Parks and Recreation Director Ryan Mackey says that progress has been slowed by continued rainfall…    “We’re trying to open it back up. The issue is this rain. Like, we have grass down there that’s just up to your knees because with it being so close to the river it’s just not draining out and there’s a clay…

Spending cuts that were avoided at the state level this fiscal year may be unavoidable in the future, according to the lobbyist for the cities of Cumberland and Frostburg. Rich Reinhardt of Percy Public Affairs says the key will be whether state revenues continue to see a downfall. He says legislators need to look at finances closely in the coming years, choosing where to cut expenses…     “We certainly are in a fiscal calamity at this point, and the only way out of it is by some of us arguing that we need more cuts to the state budget,…