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Articles by Cole McClanahan
Lee County woman 4-H Young Alumni Award
A Lee County woman was among those honored at the 2024 N.C. 4-H Alumni Awards event Saturday at McKimmon Center in Raleigh. Luz Canseco received the 4-H Young Alumni Award, which is presented to a 4-H alumnus under the age of 30 who has “transitioned from a 4-H member to an outstanding volunteer or Extension Professional,” according to a news release from the N.C. State College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.
Following second COVID-19 exposure, Starbucks temporarily shuts doors
For the second time since opening Aug. 24, the Starbucks in The Market @ UPlace has temporarily closed due to COVID-19 exposure. Less than a week after reopening following an initial COVID-19 exposure, West Virginia University announced Wednesday that the location would temporarily close and go through deep cleaning. The store plans to reopen Thursday, according to the University. The closure of Starbucks follows the recent closures of Hugh Baby’s and Hatfields.
‘Stay at home’ executive order to be lifted, replaced with ‘safer at home’ order
The Safer at Home executive order goes into effect at 12:01 a.m. on Monday. Via WV DHHR West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice announced Thursday the plan for lifting the state’s "stay at home" order and its replacement with a new "safer at home" executive order. Justice said the "safer at home" order goes into effect at 12:01 a.m. Monday.
Glover’s tenure as Mountaineer to begin Friday
Colson Glover holds the musket after being announced as the next Mountaineer mascot on March 7. Photo by James Knable Colson Glover will officially begin his duties as Mountaineer on Friday. Despite beginning his tenure on Friday, Glover will not make an in-person appearance as the Mountaineer “until WVU is able to participate in special events and activities,” the University said in a press release on Thursday.
Sewing continues at Daniel’s of Morgantown to help community
One of the 700 surgical masks produced by Daniel's of Morgantown. Photo submitted by Phil Mauser Phil Mauser said his child’s pediatrician called him and asked if he knew anyone that could make masks. Being the owner of Daniel’s of Morgantown, a men’s clothing store in Morgantown since 1963, he knew his tailors could do it. He just wasn’t sure how they would. “I didn’t really know what all it entailed, so I said to her, 'Can you send me a pattern or a video of it?’” Mauser said of the conversation.
Gov. Justice announces closure of state park campgrounds
West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice announced Monday that all state park campgrounds will be closed in an effort to slow the spread of the coronavirus. “All of this is driven primarily from the standpoint of others coming across our borders that we don’t want them to come,” Justice said in a Monday press briefing.
School of Medicine hosts virtual Match Day to learn of future residencies
All in-person classes and activities may be canceled for the remainder of the semester, but that didn’t stop the School of Medicine from celebrating its students and their future residencies. It was just a little different than usual. “The administrators were still at the University and they did it the same way we would’ve done it in the [in-person] ceremony,” said Philip Hurst, president of the School of Medicine’s 2020 class.
School of Medicine hosts virtual Match Day to learn of future residencies
All in-person classes and activities may be canceled for the remainder of the semester, but that didn’t stop the School of Medicine from celebrating its students and their future residencies. It was just a little different than usual. “The administrators were still at the University and they did it the same way we would’ve done it in the [in-person] ceremony,” said Philip Hurst, president of the School of Medicine’s 2020 class.
Creative Arts Center renamed following Canady family leadership gift
The WVU Creative Arts Center has officially been renamed following a leadership gift made by the Valerie Canady Charitable Foundation, the University announced Wednesday. The CAC, which opened in 1969, will now be known as the Loulie, Valerie and William Canady Creative Arts Center. “The Canady family’s generosity to and in support of the arts is remarkable and an important contribution to what makes Morgantown such a desirable place to be,” WVU President E. Gordon Gee said in a press release.
Ashby to serve as alternate Mountaineer with sights on following year
While Brooke Ashby was still in high school, it was a conversation with former Mountaineer mascot Michael Garcia that truly sparked her interest in the position. Ashby was working an event as her school’s mascot, the Husky, and Garcia was there. The two spoke, and Garcia asked about her plans for the future. When he found out she was planning to attend WVU, he told her he’d be mad if she didn’t apply to be the Mountaineer.
Historic trees on campus to be removed beginning this weekend
The American sycamore in front of E. Moore Hall. Photo by Corbin Mills Five historic trees on the downtown campus will soon be removed. The University announced Monday that seven trees were part of a study completed by SavATree, a third-party expert in tree care, and five have been identified for removal due to potential dangers to campus.
Meet Colson Glover, your new Mountaineer
Colson Glover, a sophomore neuroscience student from Lewisburg, was announced as the Mountaineer mascot for the 2020-21 school year on Saturday. Glover spoke with the Daily Athenaeum about his experiences leading up to and during the announcement. The following interview has been edited for length and clarity. What was your reaction when you were named a finalist?
Film Club president brings back Campus Movie Fest
After WVU didn’t renew its contract with Campus Movie Fest, Jeff Boggess stepped in to ensure the event would go on. “I always advocate this event,” Boggess, a junior advertising student, said. “It’s such a great opportunity.” Boggess had participated in and attended CMF in Fall 2017 and 2018, and found out that the event’s contract was not renewed for 2019 through his status as WVU Film Club president.
Renovations, removals possibly coming to WVU Dining
More changes are coming to dining facilities across campus, said Joe Calicchio, director of contract administration for WVU Dining Services. Calicchio said planning has begun on summer projects involving dining facilities, with certain ones having been approved and announced and others being “on hold.” Many of the possible changes involve the Health Sciences Center with one announced project being the renovation and renaming of Cavanaugh’s, a coffee shop in the building.
Summit Grab ‘n Go possibly to close
Students on the downtown campus may soon have fewer dining options as the Summit Hall Grab ‘n Go is being evaluated for closure. Summit’s Grab ‘n Go is the dining to-go choice for many dorm students in the Sunnyside area once Summit Cafe closes at night, but the space is being evaluated for other uses, according to Joe Calicchio, director of contract administration for WVU Dining Services. “What you have to realize is there is to-go now in every dining hall,” Calicchio said.
Health Sciences Which Wich dishes up healthy options, customization
The Which Wich at The Market opened Jan. 27 Photo by Seth Seebaugh With the University in a seemingly constant state of renovation, WVU Dining has been no different recently. After renovating Cafe Evansdale and Hatfields prior to this school year, WVU Dining has turned its focus to The Market at the Health Sciences Center, where a Which Wich Superior Sandwiches recently welcomed customers for the first time. The new restaurant opened Jan.
2020-21 Mountaineer applicants narrowed to four finalists
Two sophomores, a junior and a senior are among the 2020-21 Mountaineer finalists. The list of finalists, all four natives of West Virginia, include Brooke Ashby, Hunter Ayers, Colson Glover and Connor Capron. Following the announcement of the finalists, the final step in the selection process is a cheer-off at the WVU men’s basketball game against Oklahoma on Saturday. Finally, the new Mountaineer is officially announced at the WVU men’s basketball game against Baylor on March 7. Brooke Ashby.
Steps to avoid flu as second round hits
Flu season is strong on campus and across the nation. According to reports from the Associated Press, a second round of flu has come to the United States, mostly affecting children and adolescents, but college-aged people are at risk, too. In total, more than 26 million people have gotten the flu, and 14,000 people have died from the illness this season.
Student opinions varied on possible Coliseum naming rights deal
With a possible name change coming to the WVU Coliseum in the coming years, students across campus have mixed emotions. The Coliseum has been known by that name since it opened in 1970, but, according to a report from Mike Casazza of 247Sports, the athletic department is open to selling the facility’s naming rights.
Sororities grow during Bid Day 2020
With pop music blasting from speakers and crowds gathering throughout downtown, the annual tradition of Panhellenic Bid Day finally came for 2020. The women going through recruitment learned which sorority chapter they had been invited to join, with all eight Panhellenic sororities meeting their recruitment quotas, and then the festivities of the day began.
Drag Queen Storytime and Show serves as opportunity for “hope” to community
Although it was a simple storytime to the children listening, Thursday night’s Drag Queen Storytime and Show had much more meaning behind it. Put on by WVU’s LGBTQ+ Center and held in the Mountainlair’s Gluck Theatre, the event spotlighted two local drag queens — Dimitria Blackwell and Robin Hearts-Love — as they read to the children and parents of the audience and followed it with a show. All of which was done with one goal in mind: increasing literacy and acceptance.
With change in mind, sorority primary Panhellenic recruitment to begin Friday
The sisterhoods of WVU’s Panhellenic sororities will soon grow as recruitment begins Friday. Recruitment, commonly known as “rush week,” will bring together more than 400 WVU students all looking to join one of the eight Panhellenic sororities on campus, with a large emphasis being placed on joining Greek life as a whole rather than any one particular chapter.
WVU Guitar Club shifting focus among noise, confusion
When 40 people showed up to the first WVU Guitar Club meeting, it soon became hectic with differing styles and levels of expertise. Despite the impressive turn out, by being held in Towers, the meeting’s largest problem was one they are still trying to figure out — noise.
J.W. Ruby Memorial welcomes Mon County’s first baby of 2020
There was little fanfare for the parents of the first baby born at J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital in 2020. Instead, there was just a lot of waiting. They didn’t wake up at midnight and rush to the hospital. They didn’t panic and scramble to find everything they needed to bring. They simply drove to the hospital at their scheduled time and the process began.
The DA's most influential: Patrice Harris
Drawing interest from the television series “Marcus Welby, M.D.,” she knew she wanted to become a physician since the 8th grade. She had a deep care for people, especially children, and it was Marcus Welby’s concern for his own fictional patients that peaked Patrice Harris’ interest in the medical field. “My inspiration was ‘Marcus Welby’ — that was sort of like today’s ‘Grey’s Anatomy,’” Harris said.
WVU completes audit of historic trees on campus to determine next step
Seven historic trees on the WVU downtown campus may be at risk for removal. The trees, many of which date back to at least the 1890s, were the study of an audit performed by SavATree, a third-party consultant hired by the University to determine the health of the trees.
The DA's Most Influential: The Python
Although its current whereabouts are unknown, the Morgantown community still remembers its most favorite pet. A 15-foot python, which was accidentally released by its owner in late May, ran rampant through the city, evading a police officer and civilian search and was never found.
The DA's Most Influential: The Python
Although its current whereabouts are unknown, the Morgantown community still remembers its most favorite pet. A 15-foot python, which was accidentally released by its owner in late May, ran rampant through the city, evading a police officer and civilian search and was never found.
WVU alum stars in London's 'Hamilton'
A career that has spanned nearly two decades started as a way just to get him out of the house. His parents had a love for theater and the arts, but as any other 8-year-old child can attest, he really did not feel the same way. That, however, was soon to change. “It was something to divert my extra energy,” Trevor Dion Nicholas said.
Mountaineer information session to held Tuesday
Mountaineer Mascot Timothy Eads celebrates as the Mountaineers enter the red zone against Oklahoma State at Milan Puskar Stadium on Nov. 23, 2019. Photo by Matthew Green Before Timmy Eads was selected as the 2019-20 Mountaineer, students were contacting then-Mountaineer Trevor Kiess with questions about the position and asking how they could apply.
Sorting through the Mountainlair’s 2018-19 lost and found
With everything going on in the lives of college students, it’s not surprising they often leave things behind. Graphic by Caroline Murphy It’s not done on purpose, but when constantly carrying books, laptops, cell phones and wallets, it’s bound to happen. It’s especially bound to happen in the busiest place on campus — the Mountainlair. “We see things like cell phones. We see things like earphones.
WVU students hold memorial service for Sheetz
1 of 4 Event organizer Kirsten Roys, a sophomore civil engineering student from Baltimore, Maryland, reads a written eulogy during a memorial service for the University Avenue Sheetz on Nov. 19, 2019. 1 of 4 Event organizer Kirsten Roys, a sophomore civil engineering student from Baltimore, Maryland, reads a written eulogy during a memorial service for the University Avenue Sheetz on Nov. 19, 2019.
Orsagos, Leadmon named Mr. and Ms. Mountaineer
WVU has a new Mr. and Ms. Mountaineer. To cap off WVU’s annual Mountaineer Week, Pat Orsagos and Caroline Leadmon were named Mr. and Ms. Mountaineer at halftime of the WVU football game against Texas Tech on Saturday. “When they said my name, I was just shocked. I think I said, ‘Oh my gosh,’ and then I didn’t know where to walk,” Orsagos, a senior journalism student from Avon, Ohio, said. “My hands were shaking.
Popeyes chicken sandwich proves popular despite hiatus
The chicken has finally crossed the road. Following a 2-month hiatus, the instantly-famous chicken sandwich has returned to Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen stores nationwide. After selling out in late August, the sandwich’s return has created the same fanfare it did two months prior. “It’s guaranteed by like 8:30, 9 [p.m.], that just for that day, we’re going to run out of thawed chicken,” said Bassam Abulaban, owner of the Morgantown Popeyes franchise.
Mountainlair video arcade removed due to lack of use
After increased competition in recent years, the video arcade in the Mountainlair is no more. The arcade, which was located in the basement near the Lair’s bowling alley, was removed in mid-October due to a lack of use from students, said Mark Wise, assistant director of operations for the Mountainlair. “Prior to that, we had noticed not a lot of usage — [the removal] had to do with usage,” Wise said.
WVU cancels Mountaineer Idol, Dancing with our Mountaineer Stars
Dancing with our Mountaineers Stars and Mountaineer Idol will not be held this year, said Eric Andrews, WVU director of arts and entertainment, on Sunday. Junior Jamie Devine performs “She Used to Be Mine” by Sarah Bareilles during the third elimination round of Mountaineer Idol in 2018. Devine later went on to win the competition. Photo by Cody Nespor “I think it was decided to kind of pause it this year and reassess those programs,” Andrews said.
Hoang seeks to 'represent and expose' diversity at WVU as Homecoming queen
The realization that she won may never kick in. It certainly didn’t in the moment or in the days following the announcement at WVU’s Homecoming football game. “Whenever they announced Homecoming queen, they kind of took a really long pause before they said my name,” said Teresa Hoang, WVU’s 2019 Homecoming queen.
Connections key in Dillie’s Homecoming victory
Standing in the center of Milan Puskar Stadium, at halftime of a WVU football game and in front of 62,000 people, he wasn’t sure if he was going to win. He didn’t think he had a great shot at becoming Homecoming king, but he wasn’t completely counting himself out, either. And when he did win, he couldn’t help but laugh. “I was stunned.
Homecoming voting to begin Tuesday
People are standing outside the Mountainlair with signs, handing out free candy and trying to initiate conversation with random people. Homecoming week has arrived at WVU. The Homecoming Court was announced by WVU on Sept. 23 and is headlined by five candidates for King and five for Queen, all of which will participate in the Homecoming parade on Friday.
Mountaineers finish last in Big 12 Championship
The West Virginia golf team concluded play at the Big 12 Championship on Sunday with a 10th place finish. The Mountaineers shot a three-day 24-over par for the tournament, including a nine-over par performance in the final round on Sunday. Leading West Virginia in the tournament was sophomore Matthew Sharpstene, who shot an even par over the three days, with a four-under par outing in the final round. “I couldn’t be more proud of him,” WVU head coach Sean Covich said of Sharpstene.
WVU holds off late rally, beats Texas 9-8
The No. 17 West Virginia Mountaineers clinched their weekend series against Texas on Saturday with a 9-8 win. Texas (24-21, 5-11 Big 12) opened the scoring in the first inning with a single from Ryan Reynolds which scored Masen Hibbeler, but the lead would be short-lived as the Mountaineers responded in the third inning. A Brandon White single in the third scored Tevin Tucker to the tie the game, and then with the bases loaded, a two-RBI single from Ivan Gonzalez gave West Virginia a 3-1 lead.
Grier, Cajuste drafted in third round of 2019 NFL Draft
Sept. 1, 2018; Will Grier running the ball late in the second quarter against Tennessee John Lowe Sept. 1, 2018; Yodny Cajuste flexing after WVU's 40-14 win over Tennessee John Lowe After no West Virginia players were drafted in the first-round of the 2019 NFL Draft on Thursday night, two Mountaineers heard their names called in the third-round on Friday — Will Grier and Yodny Cajuste.
Mountaineers searching for NCAA at-large bid in Big 12 Championship
In only the fourth season since golf returned to West Virginia University, the Mountaineers are hosting the Big 12 Championship, beginning Friday morning at The Greenbrier. Max Sears attempting to read the line of his next put. Staff Photo “First of all, to play in this prestigious championship, you’ve got the best teams and the best players in all of college golf — it’s a great opportunity,” WVU head coach Sean Covich said.
Mountaineers add pair of shooters in McNeil, Sherman
West Virginia announced the signing of two men’s basketball players on Wednesday afternoon, beginning the day with Sean McNeil and finishing with Tajzmel Sherman. West Virginia coach Bob Huggins gestures during the first half of the team's NCAA college basketball game against Iowa State, Wednesday, Jan. 30, 2019, in Ames, Iowa.
Transfer quarterback likely to lead WVU once again
West Virginia is exiting spring without a clear decision on who will start at quarterback, but its recent trend of having a transfer behind center is likely to continue. Austin Kendall lined up and ready to take the snap from the center. Photo by Temitayo Adesokan WVU has three quarterbacks on scholarship entering the fall, but two — Jack Allison and Austin Kendall — are former transfers and have separated themselves for the starting job.
Gold-Blue Game Notebook
Offense Quarterbacks The Blue team’s offense lines up against the Gold team’s defense during the spring game on Saturday. Photo by Temitayo Adesokan Austin Kendall was the first quarterback to take the field as he received the start for the Gold team. With a strong read, the Oklahoma transfer was able to connect with TJ Simmons for a 60-yard touchdown toward the end of the first quarter. Kendall ended the afternoon going five for eight passing for 109 yards and one touchdown.
Mountaineers looking to ‘show out’ during Gold-Blue Game
The first spring for new West Virginia head coach Neal Brown concludes on Saturday with the annual Gold-Blue Game. It will be the first opportunity of 2019 for fans to see the Mountaineers at Milan Puskar Stadium under the direction of Brown, and the last chance for WVU to practice before heading into the summer when there is little contact between the coaching staff and players. “It’s huge,” said WVU inside linebackers coach Blake Seiler. “This is the last week of spring ball.
Mountaineers dominate early in 11-1 win over No. 24 Oklahoma State
The West Virginia baseball team recorded its fourth straight victory on Friday night with an 11-1 win over No. 24 Oklahoma State. The Mountaineers were in command early after scoring three runs in the first inning and the Cowboys were unable to recover. “We’ve been playing pretty well here the last three, four, games, and starting to swing it offensively,” WVU head coach Randy Mazey said.
Ground game not developing amidst injuries, position changes
Kennedy McCoy waiting for the next instruction. Photo by Temitayo Adesokan Individually, delayed development can be expected along an offensive line when an entirely new coaching staff is brought in. It can also be expected when a team is faced with replacing three starters along its front. West Virginia has to deal with both of those problems this spring. Will Grier under offensive line during the game against Texas on Nov. 13, 2018.
Marques Inman leads WVU to 5-1 series-clinching win over OU
Mar. 31, 2019; The WVU dugout celebrates after Marques Inman's two-run homer in the third inning against Oklahoma. John Lowe The weather may have changed significantly from Saturday to Sunday, but the Mountaineers gaining victories over the Sooners did not as West Virginia picked up its second straight win over No. 22 Oklahoma, 5-1. WVU clinched the weekend series behind three RBI and a homerun from redshirt junior infielder Marques Inman, all of which happened within the first four innings.
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