Good morning, Morgantown.

Service dogs Oliver, Cooper and Maggie will join their partnered veterans for a graduation ceremony hosted by the Hearts of Gold program on Saturday, March 28 at the Natural Resources Center in Preston County, celebrating their hard work (and the support from foster parents and donors).

The WVU Research Office has appointed Elizabeth Meek as director of the Office of Animal Welfare.

She brings over 20 years of experience in animal care programs plus a strong record with USDA leadership to advance ethical research at WVU.

State lawmakers passed H.B.

5168 to deliver $12 million from lottery funds for county EMS services, helping agencies maintain equipment and pay staff; Gov. Patrick Morrisey has not yet signed the bill (final approval is pending).

A proposed transmission line project has its cost estimate doubled to $960 million, putting heavy ratepayer burdens front and center.

The Mid-Atlantic Resiliency Link spans 105 miles (Monongalia, Preston, Mineral, and Hampshire) and awaits regulatory approval with hearings set for late Oct, early Nov and decision by Mar. 6.

Morgantown Municipal Airport is asking for gift card donations to support TSA agents working without pay during the government shutdown — a show of local care — as drop-offs are accepted daily — 4:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. —.

The Morgantown Utility Board will use $2 million in federal funding for a $16.6 million sewer project that will connect 375 homes on Van Voorhis & Bakers Ridge Roads to the Star City Wastewater Treatment Plant while eliminating four failing package plants.

Timelines will be shared as design advances.

The WVU Women’s Resource Center highlights Women’s History Month and offers support for childcare, healthy living and lactation needs through over 100 online resource pages and personalized referrals — initiatives include the Free Period Cup Campaign.

Lauren’s Wish, a nonprofit drug triage center at Hazel’s House of Hope established in 2020, has treated 1,400 people—about 80% entered long-term treatment—and founder Michael Cole hosts local fundraisers to support its mission and honor his daughter’s vision.

Mya Dunlap and Lydia Dunlap—junior and freshman at James Monroe—were named co-captains on the WVSWA Class AA First-Team All-State girls basketball team by local sports writers.

They led the Mavericks to a state title with strong performances against other all-state players.

The West Virginia Sports Writers Association announced the Class A all-state girls basketball teams, naming Brynnley Bulluck (state champion St. Marys) as captain of the first team.

Players from Gilmer County, Tug Valley and other regions were also honored.

Four Mountaineer players, including cornerback ChaMarryus Bomar, wide receiver Armoni Weaver, offensive lineman Malik Agbo and defensive lineman Corey McIntyre, will appear at Meadowbrook Mall’s Boscov’s Court on Saturday, March 28 from 1 to 3 PM so fans can chat, get autographs + enjoy free entertainment.

Spring sports are underway in Morgantown as baseball, softball, track and field and lacrosse teams post early wins.

University and local softball squads remain unbeaten while lacrosse teams scored high ahead of Wednesday evening games (including a head-to-head matchup) in the community.

Stavros Halkias Live Comedy Show

7-10 p.m. — Metropolitan Theatre — Tickets available — Enjoy a night filled with unforgettable laughs from acclaimed comedian Stavros Halkias.

IDeA State Cancer Trainee Research Conference

April 13-15 — Morgantown Marriott at Waterfront Place — Registration required — A unique symposium focusing on advancing cancer research through trainee collaboration.

Ducks Unlimited: WVU Sportsman's Night Out

— Morgantown Elks Lodge #411 — Registration details to be announced — Enjoy a social evening focused on outdoor sports and conservation.