-
Who is running in Martin County: Early filings set stage for 2026 local elections
BY ROGER SMITH MOUNTAIN CITIZEN INEZ — Candidate filing opened Nov. 5 for local offices that will appear on the 2026 ballot, with early filings showing a mix of crowded contests and largely uncontested races across Martin County. As of Monday, 26 candidates had registered to run for county and city offices. Sheriff The most
-
From shy steps to spotlight: Christmas showcase celebrates dance
BY TAWNY SMITH MOUNTAIN CITIZEN INEZ — Twinkle lights and tiny dance shoes took center stage Saturday in Inez as The Inez Dance Academy brought its annual Christmas Showcase to the Collier Center. The 2025 performance was equal parts tradition and celebration — a chance for young dancers to trade classroom mirrors for a real
-
Solid Waste Board weighs condemnation of properties
BY ROGER SMITH MOUNTAIN CITIZEN INEZ — Slow progress at multiple nuisance properties and a growing number of illegal trash dumps dominated discussion at a recent Martin County Solid Waste Board meeting. Officials weighed the possibility of condemnation and debated how far the county can legally go to address deteriorating and hazardous sites. Code enforcement
-
Martin County arrest report
CITIZEN STAFF REPORT INEZ — Martin County Sheriff John Kirk’s Office reported the following arrests: Lonnie Ray Jude, 49, of Pilgrim, was arrested Dec. 22 on North Wolf Creek Road in Pilgrim on a charge of assault, fourth degree (domestic violence), minor injury. According to the arrest report, Sheriff Kirk responded to a call about
-
Martin County Adult Education opens doors across generations
BY ROGER SMITH MOUNTAIN CITIZEN INEZ — From evening classes held in local schools in the 1960s to current nationally recognized outcomes, Martin County Adult Education (MCAE) has evolved alongside the community it serves, instructor Vicky Jude told the Kiwanis Club during a recent meeting. She said the center’s GED program provides a high school
-
Martin County court dockets
INEZ — Judge John Kevin Holbrook heard cases Dec. 18 in Martin Circuit Court, while Judge John T. Chafin heard cases Dec. 16 in Martin District Court. Circuit Court Shawn Hopkins (change of plea) — 1. Fleeing or evading police, second degree (motor vehicle); 2. Reckless driving: 1. Pleaded guilty, one and one-half years; 2.
-
Appalachia Reach Out brings deeper message to addiction recovery center in Inez
BY ROGER SMITH MOUNTAIN CITIZEN INEZ — An exchange of gift cards carries a deeper message of hope and encouragement for residents at Addiction Recovery Care’s White Oak Hill in Inez. Once again this year, Appalachia Reach Out (ARO) stepped up to see, support and value these neighbors. Earlier this month, ARO Executive Director Dwayne
-
Martin County civil suits and deeds
INEZ — Martin Circuit Clerk Denise Gauze reported 11 civil suits filed in her office from Dec. 5 to Dec. 18. Meanwhile, Martin County Clerk Susie Skyles reported five deeds recorded in her office through Dec. 18. Civil Suits Midland Credit Management Inc. vs. William H. Preece. Capital One NA Successor by Merger T vs.
-
White Oak Hill ladies share Christmas cards at nursing home
INEZ — The ladies at White Oak Hill (Addiction Recovery Care) in Inez brought the Christmas spirit to life. They created handmade cards and shared them with residents at the local nursing home. White Oak Hill and Thrive Community Coalition staff supported and guided the project.
-
Aubry Wilson makes a snowy new friend
Aubry Wilson found a new winter friend—proof that a little snow and a carrot nose can turn an ordinary day into something magical. She is a student at Eden Elementary School. (Submitted photo)
