Good morning, Huntington.

Marshall University's Community Cares Week is underway as students, staff, alumni and community members help beautify campus and local neighborhoods by painting dorms, planting flowers and spray washing sidewalks.

Volunteers received free shirts + free lunch and the event will run until Friday.

A $500,000 donation from Huntington native Berridge Long Copen will fund a new Founders Club at Keith Albee Theater, which is under renovation and expected to reopen later this year.

The club, designed as a VIP space with two floors (including a speakeasy), is planned to open early next year and host events such as Marshall University’s freshman convocation.

Huntington native Berridge Long Copen pledged $500,000 to the Keith Albee Theater on May 21 — the donation will support upcoming theater initiatives.

Dr. Ashley Stephens from Cabell County Schools visited First Look at Four in Huntington to share fun kitchen ideas for kids this summer and to help teach them valuable life skills—her tips focused on simple recipes and cooking activities for families.

The Cabell County Board of Education approved the 2026 fiscal year budget of $22,845,864 amid a nearly 10-year enrollment decline and a $7.1 million funding decrease to maintain long-term support for students and staff.

The budget, which factors in COVID recovery fund changes and recent staffing cuts, will take effect on July 1 pending state board approval + may lead to further staff reductions.

On May 19, 2025, park visitors spotted two fledgling red-shoulder hawks and an adult flying near a nest in Ritter Park.

Officials at Three Rivers Avian Center advised people to keep their distance—since the hawk might swoop if it feels its chicks are in danger.

New Department of Human Services Secretary Alex Mayer — who came from South Dakota — said today he believes West Virginia's foster care system can be fixed despite staffing shortages, an overwhelmed judicial system and little support.

He promised changes to help children who have suffered from these challenges.

Jay Webb Live Performance

8-10:30 p.m. — The Loud — Ticket info required — Experience Alabama native Jay Webb's unfiltered country music with raw, relatable lyrics.

Brew Grass West Virginia 2025

1-7 p.m. — Taps at Heritage — Unlimited pours with ticket — Celebrate craft beers and live music from the Appalachian region.

R&B Soul Block Party 2025

6-10 p.m. — Heritage Station — Admission details not specified — Groove to the smooth sounds of R&B and soul music at an epic block party.

Origami Angel Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — The Loud — Ticket prices vary — Experience the defining sound of Origami Angel's latest record, Feeling Not Found.

Kindred Valley Concert

7-9:30 p.m. — The Loud — Not specified — Experience indie folk tunes from the talented Kindred Valley band formed by Marshall University alumni.

Open Mic Night

9:00 – 10:30 p.m. — The Loud — Tickets start at $50 — Enjoy a night of diverse performances at the local open mic event.