Good morning, Morgantown.

The community observed the 82nd anniversary of the Shinnston Tornado, West Virginia’s deadliest storm that struck on June 23, 1944, devastating neighborhoods and claiming 100 lives.

Historians note that wartime emergency readiness helped speed the life-saving response and remind residents to stay prepared for severe weather.

An NWS report confirmed a tornado touched down northeast of downtown Fairmont Monday night, and survey teams are assessing damage along Speedway Avenue and the 1300 block of Bunners Ridge Road while DOH crews repaired impassable roads near Flaggy Meadow Road in Monongalia County with no serious injuries reported.

Father Charles Carroll’s legacy at All Saints Parish in Bridgeport has sparked a cause for his canonization as West Virginia’s first saint—community members are invited to submit testimonies that may support his designation as a Servant of God.

Aaron Whitford was approved Tuesday night as the new athletic director at University High School and will start his full-time role on July 1.

He replaces longtime director Jeff Bailey, who retired after 28 years leading a program that captured several state championships.

The National Writing Project at WVU and School of Education and Counseling will host a teacher’s day of poetry featuring West Virginia Poet Laureate Marc Harshman on July 23 at Mountainlair.

The free event is tailored for teachers (open to the public) to celebrate creative expression.

WVU physicists are using laser techniques to map plasma behavior with a new NSF grant — they plan to build diagnostic systems and train students over the next three years, work that may improve processes from microchip manufacturing to spacecraft propulsion.

State Treasurer Larry Pack announced Monday that 26,617 students applied for full funding in the Hope Scholarship Program for the 2026-2027 school year, nearly doubling from previous counts, with the program’s cost estimated at $155 million (costs may rise with more approvals).

A federal judge on Monday blocked West Virginia's SNAP soda ban that began Jan.

1 — ruling that the USDA overstepped its authority in approving Gov. Patrick Morrisey's waiver request — and the decision protects SNAP recipients' ability to buy necessary foods.

Today's West Virginia Morning broadcast explored caregiver support for aging adults, noting that one in 10 Americans care for a parent age 65 and older, according to Pew research.

The report by Blake Farmer & Cara Anthony also mentioned state lawmakers supporting a federal ban on greyhound racing, a new Corridor H segment and details for America250 Capital City Celebration.

WVU expert Dr. Vlad Codrea advises that people spending time outdoors should use SPF 50+ sunscreen every two hours and wear protective gear to help prevent long-term skin damage.

He also recommends wide-brimmed hats, wraparound sunglasses plus lightweight long-sleeved clothes for extra defense.

Adelheid Schaupp opened Eisgarten, a seasonal German-inspired ice cream shop by Jack Roberts Park in the First Ward this past weekend to offer families unique treats like Spaghetti Eis and a garden-themed space; it will operate Tuesday through Sunday from noon to 9 p.m. during the summer.

After an undefeated season culminating in a D1 state championship, Morgantown High School boys lacrosse players Luke Quigley and Charlie Peters were named to the 2026 USA Lacrosse All-American team on Tuesday; the honor comes after a 17-0 campaign that showcased their top performance.

WVU athletics will retire former QB Pat White’s No. 5 jersey on Sept.

5 at the season opener against Coastal Carolina. Season ticket holders who purchase tickets before Aug. 1 will receive a commemorative ticket (acrylic case included) celebrating the milestone.

Freshman infielder Zahir Barjam, expected to start in 2027, entered the transfer portal after last week's season in Morgantown & coaches begin rebuilding the team with new signings and transfers.

Live Music with Fret Buzz at Tropics

6:30-9 p.m. — Tropics — $15 — Experience a night of energetic live music featuring a rotating lineup from rock to country as part of the summer concert series.

MR 4 on the 4th

8 a.m.–2 p.m. — Morgantown Running — Registration fees apply — Celebrate Independence Day with a festive 4-mile run and kids race in Morgantown.

John R. Miller & William Matheny Concert

8 p.m. — 123 Pleasant Street — Ticket pricing varies — Enjoy a night of live music from talented artists John R. Miller and William Matheny.