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West Virginia Morning

Whether it’s important news events, interesting features about people and places, the latest in environmental news, stories about education or the economy, West Virginia Public Broadcasting’s team of experienced reporters bring listeners in depth stories and interviews from around the state.

Listen at 7:43 a.m. Monday-Friday on WVPB Radio.

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Episodes

WVPB Staff, About 8 hours ago

Ohio’s Poet Laureate And Our Song Of The Week On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, Kari Gunter-Seymour is Ohio’s third poet laureate. Inside Appalachia Producer Bill Lynch spoke with Gunter-Seymour about poetry, getting published and the Appalachian part of Ohio.

WVPB Staff, Mar. 23, 2023

Teaching Healthy Habits And W.Va. Chefs Nominated For Award On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, more than a decade ago, Huntington made headlines as the “fattest city in the nation.” We listen to an excerpt from our latest episode of Us & Them with host Trey Kay Kay, where we look at continuing efforts to teach healthy habits in West Virginia.

WVPB Staff, Mar. 22, 2023

Banning Books In Prisons On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, news about book bans have been in the spotlight lately, but books are also being banned in prisons without much public attention. The Marshall Project, a nonprofit newsroom focused on the criminal justice system, published a searchable database of the books banned in 18 state prison systems. News Director Eric Douglas spoke with Andrew Calderon about the project and what it means in West Virginia prisons.

WVPB Staff, Mar. 21, 2023

A Conversation About A Unique Celebration’s Historical Significance, This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, Civil War historians are recognizing a unique local celebration that happened during the conflict in the wilds of southern West Virginia, when 20 Jewish Union soldiers came together during the conflict for a Passover feast known as a Seder.

WVPB Staff, Mar. 20, 2023

Banking Concerns And Spring Has Sprung On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, the last few weeks of news from the world of banking has shaken confidence in financial institutions both at home and abroad. Reporter Chris Schulz set out to find what the real impact has been on West Virginia’s financial institutions.

WVPB Staff, Mar. 17, 2023

Yugoslavian Fish Stew And Nellie McKay Has Our Song Of The Week On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, General Steak and Seafood in Charleston is a local staple. Along with scallops, sea bass and salmon, the shop is known for its Yugoslavian Fish Stew, particularly during the season of Lent. Folkways Reporter Zack Harold has the story.

WVPB Staff, Mar. 16, 2023

New Report Shows Coal Utility Challenges During Christmas Holiday, This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, coal’s supporters have bragged about the performance of the fossil fuel during the deep freeze over Christmas weekend. But as Curtis Tate reports, not all coal units were available to help, even in West Virginia. That’s according to a new report from Standard & Poor’s.

WVPB Staff, Mar. 15, 2023

A Forest Project And Senators Reflect On 2023 Legislative Session On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, with the 60-day legislative session over, lawmakers and West Virginians have a chance to reflect on what was accomplished – and look forward to what still needs to be done for the state. Chris Schulz covered the Senate all session and has one last look at the chamber’s activity.

WVPB Staff, Mar. 14, 2023

Fruit Tree Migration And A Final Legislative Wrap On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, several lawmakers called the just completed legislative session historic, while others were concerned over the focus on major economic development rather than helping working West Virginians. Randy Yohe has a final session wrap from the House of Delegates.

WVPB Staff, Mar. 13, 2023

WVPB Reporters Recap 2023 State Legislative Session On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, the 60-day state legislative session ended Saturday night in a quieter fashion than normal. Both chambers finished up all the legislation they intended to pass on Friday and spent Saturday hammering out the differences. On Sunday, the news team came together in the studio to do a final wrap up. News Director Eric Douglas spoke with the reporters on legislative duty.

WVPB Staff, Mar. 10, 2023

Health Legislation And John Inghram Has Our Song Of The Week On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, there have been a number of health issues discussed by the state legislature this session, from reducing the cost of insulin to women’s health. Appalachia Health News Reporter Emily Rice spoke with The Legislature Today host Bob Brunner about some of the bills she’s been following.

WVPB Staff, Mar. 09, 2023

Education Legislation And Addressing Homelessness On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, the federal government says this year’s count of homeless people shows 40 percent are living on the streets, unsheltered. That’s the highest percentage ever. Many cities are struggling to provide support. In Charleston, West Virginia outdoor encampments have been a focus at the state legislature as debate continues over how to respond.

WVPB Staff, Mar. 08, 2023

Understanding Hospice And Lawmakers Talk Changes To PEIA, This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, we have the next installment in our series on caring for aging parents. News Director Eric Douglas spoke with Katherine Calloway from Hospice Care of West Virginia to find out more. This is a conversation many people don’t want to have with their loved ones, but it is an important one.

WVPB Staff, Mar. 07, 2023

Gender-Affirming Health Care And Sen. Capito Visits Shepherd University On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, one hotly debated bill before the state legislature is one that restricts gender-affirming health care for state youth. It’s slowly moving forward in the Senate. In our latest episode of The Legislature Today, News Director Eric Douglas speaks with reporter Curtis Tate about the bill.

WVPB Staff, Mar. 06, 2023

Model Trains And State Legislature Enters Final Week, This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, model trains have grown from a child’s toy to an enduring passion for adults. Inside Appalachia Folkways reporter Zack Harold visited with the Kanawha Valley Railroad Association and has this story.

WVPB Staff, Mar. 03, 2023

Women’s Health And Our Song Of The Week On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, with the state’s abortion ban clarified and solidified in state code by recent legislation, our Appalachia Health News Reporter Emily Rice talks with Sen. Patricia Rucker, R-Jefferson, and Del. Ric Griffith, D-Wayne, about women’s and maternal health in West Virginia.

WVPB Staff, Mar. 02, 2023

In-Home Care Versus Nursing Homes And Crossover Day At The Legislature On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, we hear the latest installment in News Director Eric Douglas’ series on caring for aging parents. We talk with Chris Braley, the owner of a memory care assisted living facility in Kanawha County, who sheds light on in-home care versus nursing homes.

WVPB Staff, Mar. 01, 2023

PEIA Legislation And COVID-19 Emergency Food Support Ending, This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, some struggling families may now have less government support for food, as COVID-19 pandemic-era emergency allotments come to a close. Appalachia Health News Reporter Emily Rice has more.

WVPB Staff, Feb. 28, 2023

Enhancing Hiking, Biking And Trails On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, Assistant News Director Caroline MacGregor talks with House Minority Leader Doug Skaff, D-Kanawha, and Sen. Mark Maynard, R-Wayne, to learn about what the state legislature has planned to support that growing tourism industry.

WVPB Staff, Feb. 27, 2023

A Look At Chemical Leaks, Train Derailments And PFAS On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, a serious train derailment and chemical release in Ohio has dominated the headlines for the past few weeks. West Virginia has seen its own share of disasters with hazardous materials, including an oil train derailment and fire in 2015. Energy & Environment Reporter Curtis Tate spoke with Jesse Richardson of the West Virginia University Land Use and Sustainable Development Law Clinic about those events.

WVPB Staff, Feb. 24, 2023

Legislation To Combat Flooding And Our Song Of The Week On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, flooding is a problem that plagues the state of West Virginia, but a resiliency officer is now designated to help the state recover. In our latest episode of The Legislature Today, Assistant News Director Caroline MacGregor spoke with Del. Clay Riley, R-Harrison, and Sen. Chandler Swope, R-Mercer, to see how the state legislature can help further.

WVPB Staff, Feb. 23, 2023

Economic Development And Challenges Of Re-Entry On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, there are several ways to look at economic development in West Virginia. One is the traditional method of luring large corporations to the state, and another school of thought is to invest that money in poverty programs and to bring the poorest West Virginians up.

WVPB Staff, Feb. 22, 2023

Roads, Bridges And The State’s First ‘Dementia Friendly’ Town On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, it’s Dementia Friendly Day in St. Albans. The Kanawha County town is the first location in the state that has been recognized as being dementia friendly. For his special radio series, “Getting Into Their Reality: Caring For Aging Parents,” News Director Eric Douglas spoke with Walter Hall, the vice mayor of St. Albans, and one of the founders of the Dementia Friendly program, to find out what it’s all about.

WVPB Staff, Feb. 21, 2023

Campus Carry And Appalachian Writers Workshop To Return, This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, Senate Bill 10 is expected to pass the House of Delegates this week. The bill would allow people with concealed carry permits to have guns on college campuses. Government Reporter Randy Yohe spoke with Del. Evan Hansen, D-Monongalia, and Sen. Mike Stuart, R-Kanawha, to get a better understanding on the bill.

WVPB Staff, Feb. 20, 2023

Reporter Roundtable And New Book On Influential Environmentalist, This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, we listen back to our Friday reporter roundtable on The Legislature Today where our WVPB reporters Randy Yohe and Chris Schulz were joined by veteran TV newsman from WCHS in Charleston Bob Aaron. They discussed some of the big ticket items in the state legislature including campus carry, arming public school teachers and splitting up DHHR.

WVPB Staff, Feb. 17, 2023

Helping West Virginians Regain Sobriety And Joan Osborne Has Our Song Of The Week, This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, substance use disorder, sober living homes, homelessness and mental health treatment are all challenges facing West Virginia when it comes to helping people regain sobriety. In our latest episode of The Legislature Today, Randy Yohe spoke with Del. Mike Pushkin, D-Kanawha, and Del. Scot Heckert, R-Wood, to discuss what’s working and what needs changed.

WVPB Staff, Feb. 16, 2023

School Choice And A New Study Sheds Light On Financial Costs Of Suicide, This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, from the Hope Scholarship to charter schools, West Virginia’s educational landscape has changed in the last few years. Often driven by legislation, supporters of the “school choice” movement have more options now than ever before.

WVPB Staff, Feb. 15, 2023

Health Legislation, Wills And Estate Planning On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, the state recently received some bad health grades from the American Lung Association. Appalachia Health News Reporter Emily Rice sat down with Del. Matthew Rohrbach, R-Cabell, who is also a doctor, to get his thoughts on the state of health in West Virginia and what the legislature can do to help.

WVPB Staff, Feb. 14, 2023

Lawmakers Discuss Judicial Redistricting On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, one issue before the West Virginia Legislature this year is judicial redistricting. That means balancing out the number of judges covering the state to make sure that every case gets heard in a timely manner.

WVPB Staff, Feb. 13, 2023

Tax Cuts And State Poet Laureate Talks Career On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, the biggest story to watch at the West Virginia Legislature this week will be proposed tax cuts. Last Friday, WVPB‘s Chris Schulz and Curtis Tate sat down with Leah Willingham from the Associated Press for a reporter roundtable on The Legislature Today.

WVPB Staff, Feb. 10, 2023

Energy Costs And Janis Ian Has Our Song Of The Week On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, energy costs have gone up for West Virginians in the past couple of years. Local governments in the state have been some of the most vocal opponents of utility rate increases.

WVPB Staff, Feb. 09, 2023

Restructuring DHHR And Youth Voter Turnout Is On The Rise, This West Virginia Morning

Appalachia Health News Reporter Emily Rice sat down with the chairs of the Senate and House Health committees: Del. Amy Summers, R-Taylor, and Sen. Mike Maroney, R-Marshall, to discuss DHHR’s future.

WVPB Staff, Feb. 08, 2023

Understanding Gender-Affirming Care And Discussing Funeral Arrangements With Loved Ones On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, discussing funeral arrangements is never easy, but as News Director Eric Douglas found out through personal experience with his mom, it is much easier to do it in advance than it is after a loved one has passed away.

WVPB Staff, Feb. 07, 2023

Lawmakers Discuss State’s Education Challenges On This West Virginia Morning

Education Reporter Chris Schulz sat down with Sen. Amy Grady, R-Mason, the Senate Education Committee chair, and Del. David Elliot Pritt, D-Fayette, the Minority vice chair of the House Education Committee, to learn more about what is being done to address the state’s education challenges this legislative session.

WVPB Staff, Feb. 06, 2023

Health Legislation And Ending Book Deserts On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, book deserts are places without nearby libraries or bookstores, which can be very hard for children just learning to read. Morgantown High School senior Rania Zuri is trying to fight that and bring books to kids in West Virginia. Inside Appalachia’s Mason Adams spoke with her.

WVPB Staff, Feb. 03, 2023

Student Safety, Success And Our Song Of The Week On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, Education Reporter Chris Schulz sat down with West Virginia teachers Shane Healy and Robin Chancey on our latest episode of The Legislature Today to discuss the state of our schools and some of the proposed changes.

WVPB Staff, Feb. 02, 2023

Budget Surpluses, Taxes And Recycling Plastics On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, Government Reporter Randy Yohe spoke with Gov. Jim Justice during Wednesday night’s episode of The Legislature Today. We listen to part of that conversation where the governor discussed budget surpluses and tax reductions.

WVPB Staff, Feb. 01, 2023

A Discussion Of The State Budget And When To Stop Driving This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, government reporter Randy Yohe spoke with Senate Finance Chair Eric Tarr, R-Putnam, and House Finance committee member Larry Rowe, D-Kanawha, to get the latest on the state budget.

WVPB Staff, Jan. 31, 2023

Staffing Jails And Celebrating Farms, Forests On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, the state’s jail system is stretched to a breaking point. Even with various programs, incentives and pay raises to encourage more West Virginians to serve as correctional officers, there are still severe vacancies.

WVPB Staff, Jan. 30, 2023

A Reporter Roundtable And Expanding Health Care For Veterans On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, we listen back to our Friday reporter roundtable on The Legislature Today. Steven Allen Adams from Ogden Newspapers joined our statehouse reporters Randy Yohe and Chris Schulz in the studio.

WVPB Staff, Jan. 27, 2023

Workforce Challenges And Our Song Of The Week On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, a question facing West Virginia is whether we have enough people to fill the new jobs coming into the state. Government Reporter Randy Yohe explored the issue in a discussion with the chairmen of the Senate and House Workforce committees Sen. Rollan Roberts, R-Raleigh, and Del. Evan Worrell, R-Cabell.

WVPB Staff, Jan. 26, 2023

Energy Issues And Housing Costs On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, West Virginia has long been an energy state. But where that energy comes from is changing. Natural gas is replacing coal in power plants and renewable energy is gaining ground.

WVPB Staff, Jan. 25, 2023

Senior Services And The Coalfield Communities Grant Facilitation Commission On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, many West Virginians have found themselves caring for an aging parent. News Director found himself in that position with his mom and he didn’t know where to turn for help. So, he got to work and is bringing what he found to our broadcast. In our fourth story in Douglas’ series “Getting Into Their Reality: Caring For Aging Parents,” he talks with Vicky Foster, the CEO of Kanawha Valley Senior Services.

WVPB Staff, Jan. 24, 2023

PEIA Concerns And Tourism Day On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, the Public Employees Insurance Agency (PEIA) is the health care benefit for state employees and teachers among others. Rising costs in health care have put the program in jeopardy. Reporter Chris Schulz spoke with Del. Charlie Reynolds, R-Marshall, and Fred Albert, the president of the American Federation of Teachers – West Virginia, to get their perspectives.

WVPB Staff, Jan. 23, 2023

River Ice Jams And Country Musician Morgan Wade On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, our Inside Appalachia Host Mason Adams recently spoke with country musician and Virginia native Morgan Wade. “Wilder Days” is the first track on her country album Reckless. The album was released in 2021 and became a hit, charting at number 14 on Billboard’s Heatseekers charts. We hear about her tour and about coming home to Floyd, Virginia.

Jan. 20, 2023

Improving Early Childhood Literacy And Our Song Of The Week, This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, Government Reporter Randy Yohe talks with Sen. Bob Plymale, D-Wayne, and Del. Joe Statler, R-Monongalia, about proposed early childhood education reforms to ensure literacy. The renewed focus comes after state and national test results in 2022 showed steep declines in reading and math scores.

Jan. 19, 2023

Budget Possibilities And House Passes Income Tax Reduction Proposal On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, reporter Chris Schulz sat down with budget policy expert Sean O’Leary from the West Virginia Center on Budget and Policy to discuss the proposed state budget and the potential possibilities.

Jan. 18, 2023

Speaker Hanshaw Shares Session Priorities And Attorney Talks Finances For Aging Parents, This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, many West Virginians at some point are faced with the problem of taking over their parent’s finances and care. As part of his ongoing series, "Getting Into Their Reality: Caring For Aging Parents," News Director Eric Douglas spoke with Franki Parsons, a Charleston attorney who specializes in estate planning and works with families who may need a conservatorship or a guardianship.

Jan. 17, 2023

An Interview With Senate President Blair And An MLK Day Celebration This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, reporter Chris Schulz sits down with Senate President Craig Blair, R-Berkeley, to talk about his plan for this year’s legislative session. Improvements to the state’s educational system, departmental restructuring and promised tax cuts are on Blair’s agenda this year.

Jan. 16, 2023

Concerns Around Funding For 'Crisis Pregnancy Centers' This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, reporter Chris Schulz spoke with Margaret Pomponio, CEO of reproductive health and rights advocacy group WV FREE, to learn more about HB 2002. If passed, the bill would create the West Virginia Mothers and Babies Pregnancy Support program and fund Pregnancy Help Organizations to encourage women to give birth in the case of unplanned pregnancy.The bill comes after the legislature passed a law during last summer’s special session that outlaws abortion with a few exceptions for rape and to preserve the life of the mother.

Jan. 13, 2023

Democrats' Legislative Expectations And Our Song Of The Week This West Virginia Morning

On This West Virginia Morning, West Virginia Public Broadcasting’s show The Legislature Today returned to the air last night with a response to the governor’s State of the State Address. Reporter Chris Schulz spoke with Senate Minority Leader Mike Woelfel and House Minority Leader Doug Skaff to get their reactions.

WVPB Staff, Jan. 12, 2023

The State Of The State And Finding Your Family This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, Gov. Jim Justice’s seventh State of the State address Wednesday night covered a wide range of proposed initiatives, including a personal income tax cut and putting half a billion dollars toward economic development.

Jan. 11, 2023

Explaining Alzheimer’s And Splitting Up DHHR This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, we continue our series “Getting Into Reality: Caring For Aging Parents” with our second interview. News Director Eric Douglas spoke with Teresa Morris, program director for the West Virginia chapter of the Alzheimer's Association. They discussed what Alzheimer's is and what it means for the caregiver.

Jan. 10, 2023

Advocating For Appalachian Agriculture, This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, Martinsburg native and Miss West Virginia Elizabeth Lynch has been making waves nationally as the third-runner up in this year’s Miss America competition, using her platform to be a voice for Appalachian agriculture.

Jan. 09, 2023

New Battery Technology Comes To West Virginia And DIY Magazines, This West Virginia Morning

Reporter Curtis Tate spoke with Halle Cheeseman, program director for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Advanced Research Projects Agency, about the type of iron air batteries set to be manufactured in West Virginia and how they’re used.

Jan. 06, 2023

Washboards And William Matheny Has Our Song Of The Week On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, the washboard is a traditional tool for doing laundry. It’s also a rhythm instrument. At one place in Appalachia, it is seeing a revival. Folkways Reporter Capri Cafaro brought us this story.

Jan. 05, 2023

EMT Mental Health Support And Bird Watching On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, with statewide Emergency Medical Service worker numbers still down a third, there’s plenty of overtime for those often making life and death ambulance runs. With all that overtime, there’s overwhelming stress – and a dire need for more EMS mental health support. Government Reporter Randy Yohe has the story.

Jan. 04, 2023

WVPB Launches New Radio Series On Caring For Aging Parents, This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, the WVPB news team has launched a new, occasional series titled “Getting Into Their Reality: Caring For Aging Parents.” It’s focused on the challenges that come with caring for aging parents in West Virginia — from dementia to Alzheimer’s to mobility issues.

Jan. 03, 2023

Recruiting, Retaining EMS Workers And Tree Identification On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, major challenges remain across the state in recruiting and retaining enough emergency medical service workers to keep ambulances running. Government Reporter Randy Yohe spoke with state Emergency Medical Director Jody Ratliff on all that’s being done to keep the first responder EMT department fully staffed.

Dec. 23, 2022

A Greek-Appalachian Cookie Recipe And Our Song Of The Week On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, parishioners at St. Mary’s Orthodox Church in Bluefield spend 40 days before Christmas abstaining from eggs, meat and dairy – but that doesn’t mean they still can’t enjoy something a little sweet. Folkways Reporter Connie Bailey Kitts has this story about a Greek-Appalachian cookie recipe.

Dec. 22, 2022

Naloxone Accessibility And 'Us & Them' Looks At The State Of America, This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, the holidays can be a difficult time for many people, including those in recovery from substance use disorder. Monongalia County Health Department Threat Preparedness specialist Joe Klass sat down with reporter Chris Schulz to remind listeners of the accessibility and usefulness of the overdose-reversing medication naloxone.

Dec. 21, 2022

A Farm-To-Table Recipe And Training Women To Work In Trades On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, the Infrastructure Investment Act is bringing millions of dollars for construction and development across the state. As Chris Schulz reports, thanks to a training program, West Virginia is well positioned to meet the demand for more workers with skilled women.

Dec. 20, 2022

A Conversation With The State’s New Commerce Secretary On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, Government Reporter Randy Yohe spoke with West Virginia's new Commerce Secretary James Bailey on the challenges of managing a diverse department that includes everything from forestry to rehabilitation services.

Dec. 19, 2022

National Diving Comes To W.Va. And Environmental Justice Concerns On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, we hear from Justin Nobel, an investigative reporter covering the oil and gas industry in Appalachia. Inside Appalachia host Mason Adams caught up with Nobel, who has been writing about health and environmental justice concerns at a facility in eastern Ohio that processes radioactive oilfield waste.

Dec. 16, 2022

Celebrating Mountain Stage's Larry Groce On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, our very own Larry Groce contributed to the local music scene even before he helped found Mountain Stage. He has received honors and accolades for his work, but this weekend he is receiving something unexpected. He is going to receive an honorary doctoral degree from WVU.

Dec. 15, 2022

A Look At The Ups And Downs Of The Salvation Army's Red Kettle Donations On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, reporter Amelia Knisely spoke with Major Joseph May, area commander for the Salvation Army of Central West Virginia, which serves Boone, Clay, Kanawha, Logan, Mingo, Putnam and Roane counties.

Dec. 14, 2022

Shifts In Power At The State Legislature And Navigating Dementia During The Holidays On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, as lawmakers prepare for the upcoming 2023 regular state legislative session, they do so with a near historic imbalance of political party power. Government Reporter Randy Yohe spoke with the leaders of both state political parties on what brought them to this point and their expectations for the future.

Dec. 13, 2022

Addressing The Mountain State's School Bus Shortage On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, the state has not been immune to a countrywide shortage of certified bus drivers to provide transportation for students. As Education Reporter Chris Schulz reports, the problem and its solution lies with each county and its school system.

Dec. 12, 2022

Mountaineer Apprenticeships And A W.Va. Christmas Book On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, the state is among the national leaders in apprenticeships. Government Reporter Randy Yohe reports on a growing vocational trend that seems well fitted to the Mountain State’s workforce. Also, in this show, we learn about a new Christmas book that celebrates West Virginia's counties.

Dec. 09, 2022

A College Football Championship Bid And Our Song Of The Week This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, college football in West Virginia is usually associated with the West Virginia Mountaineers and Marshall Thundering Herd. But Shepherd University’s loyal fans in the Eastern Panhandle will cheer on their football program when they play in the Division II semifinals this weekend.

Dec. 08, 2022

Drug Courts And An Update On DHHR's Reorganization, This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, the Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) is now working to implement recommendations from the independent McChrystal analysis group to improve internal communications and client outcomes. Government Reporter Randy Yohe spoke with DHHR Cabinet Secretary Bill Crouch on the progress so far.

Dec. 07, 2022

Protecting Loved Ones From Illness During The Holidays On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, News Director Eric Douglas spoke with Dr. Michael Stevens, WVU Health System's Healthcare Epidemiologist, about flu, COVID-19 and keeping your family safe this holiday season.

Dec. 06, 2022

The Ins And Outs Of Declaring Political Candidacy On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, it didn’t take long after the recent general election for several political candidates to announce they’re running for state and federal offices in 2024. More are expected to announce in the next few weeks. But are they officially on the ballot? Government Reporter Randy Yohe spoke with State Election Director Deak Kersey from Secretary of State Mac Warner’s office on how declaring yourself a political candidate really works.

Dec. 05, 2022

Pro Football's Appalachian Roots And Communities Tackling Opioids On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, the Monongalia County Quick Response Team was launched in 2019 as a collaboration among public health, first responders, and other health care and private partners. As Chris Schulz reports, robust community responses efforts like these have been built to tackle the state’s opioid epidemic head on.

Dec. 02, 2022

Experimental Family Courts Are Reuniting Families On This West Virginia Morning

Drug and alcohol abuse has torn West Virginia families apart and separated parents from their children. But a recent family court graduation shows how a community can come together to change that. Ten parents in Nicholas County celebrated a big milestone in their sobriety as they’ve been reunited with their children. Amelia Knisely has the story.

Dec. 01, 2022

State's Film Industry Making Gains After New Law On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, earlier this year, the state legislature revitalized the West Virginia Film Office, as well as the state’s film tax credits. The bill went into effect in July and as Chris Schulz reports, in just five months, the state’s film industry is already seeing a bump.

Nov. 30, 2022

Black Lung Regulations And W.Va.'s Education Debate On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, there are two schools of thought dominating the politics of improving West Virginia’s education systems. Some promote non-traditional education, while others say public schools must be prioritized. Government Reporter Randy Yohe offers some points and counterpoints on the state’s education debate.

Nov. 29, 2022

The Impact Of State's Declining Birthing Centers On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, another birthing center in a hospital has closed, worsening West Virginia’s critical shortage of care for its mothers and babies. Amelia Knisely has the story.

Nov. 28, 2022

DHHR Responds To Patient Mistreatment Allegations And New Project Aims To Boost Civic Empathy, This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, William R. Sharpe Hospital is a state-run facility for patients with mental illnesses. Some have raised concerns about the care provided at the hospital and DHHR Secretary Bill Crouch came into our studio to respond. News Director Eric Douglas sat down with him last week.

Nov. 23, 2022

Food Pantries Hit By Inflation And Reimagining The Upper Kanawha Valley On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, most of us think of Thanksgiving as a time to get together with family for a large meal. But many West Virginians struggle this time of year, and the food banks are struggling to keep up, too. Assistant News Director Caroline MacGregor has the story.

Nov. 22, 2022

The Asian Appalachian Experience And House Leaders Lay Out Priorities On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, economic development and education are two issues that loom large as state legislators prepare for the 2023 regular session. Randy Yohe reports that leaders in the West Virginia House of Delegates from both parties have different views on the varied priority issues that need to be addressed.

Nov. 21, 2022

Two New Books Explore Coal And Appalachia On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, we talk with two authors about their new books. One, from folklorist Emily Hilliard, explores visionary folklore and everyday culture in Appalachia. The second book, from West Virginia University’s James Van Nostrand looks at West Virginia’s reluctance to let go of coal.

Nov. 18, 2022

New Book Challenges LGBTQ Appalachian Stereotypes And We Listen To Our Song Of The Week, This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, a new book called “Y’all Means All: Emerging Voices Queering Appalachia” is challenging the stereotypes and marginalization faced by LGBTQ Appalachians. It shows how the public perception is changing. Mason Adams has the story.

Nov. 17, 2022

After Historic Flooding, Some Kentuckians Are Reconnecting With Their Music Traditions On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, historic flooding in southeastern Kentucky this summer took lives, destroyed property and at least temporarily cut people off from some of their traditions — like playing music in church. With the help of friends and neighbors, some of these musicians have been able to reconnect with their music.

Nov. 16, 2022

Bringing An Appalachian Sense Of Community To Urban Places On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, throughout the 20th century, people left Appalachia in search of jobs and opportunities. Some Appalachians came to a part of Atlanta, Georgia for work, bringing with them their mountain culture. Jess Maydor has this story about Cabbagetown.

Nov. 15, 2022

Respiratory Infection Concerns And Affrilachian Poet Frank X. Walker Talks Latest Work, This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, News Director Eric Douglas talks with Affrilachian poet Frank X. Walker about coining the term “Affrilachia” and about his latest work — a children’s book that uses the alphabet to identify and focus on people of color who grew up in Appalachia. It’s called A is For Appalachia.

Nov. 14, 2022

Singing At Funerals And Cleaning Up Coal Ash On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, for many Black communities, music is an essential component of end-of-life rituals. When a loved one dies, families often call on a singer to perform at a funeral to offer comfort and healing. Inside Appalachia Folkways Reporter Leeshia Lee spoke with her cousin, Michelle Dyess, about being a funeral singer in Charleston.

Nov. 10, 2022

Us & Them Looks At A World Post-Roe And We Listen To Our Song Of The Week, This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, some states this fall are redefining their laws and policies on abortion. The move comes in the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court ruling that overturned Roe v. Wade. In our newest episode of Us & Them, host Trey Kay takes a look at where things stand.

Nov. 09, 2022

A Recap Of The 2022 General Election On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, voters made their voices heard in the 2022 General Election. The GOP has maintained its control of the West Virginia Legislature, U.S. Reps. Carol Miller and Alex Mooney have held onto their seats in Congress, and West Virginia voters have rejected all four proposed amendments to the state constitution. Randy Yohe joins Teresa Wills to discuss the results.

Nov. 08, 2022

Amendment 2 And Higher Ed Mental Health On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, Government Reporter Randy Yohe brings us this final preview of ‘Amendment 2’ as voters head to the polls for the 2022 General Election.

Nov. 07, 2022

Single-Member Districts And Flood Recovery Research, This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, West Virginians will vote Tuesday in new districts after the state redistricting in 2021. For some voters, it will be the first time they elect only one delegate to the House.

Nov. 04, 2022

Snake Handling Church Music And Our Song Of The Week On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, snake handling churches play a style of Appalachian music few know much about. That music is the subject of a new podcast called “Alabama Astronaut.” Folkways Reporter Zack Harold recently spoke with co-host Abe Partridge about how a project intended to document this music ended up being about a whole lot more.

Nov. 03, 2022

Allegations Of Abuse Surface In State-Run Facilities, This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, people with disabilities are being abused in state-run facilities, and lawmakers want answers from the state health department. Amelia Knisely has the story.

Nov. 02, 2022

Exploring Amendment 1 And Tales Of Cryptid Sightings This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, we take a look at Amendment 1, which relates to the checks and balances of the legislative and judicial branches of state government. Randy Yohe previews a voter's decision-making process on what’s fair or not fair regarding impeachment procedures.

Nov. 01, 2022

Explaining Amendment 3 And Education After The Pandemic, This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, Amendment 3 asks West Virginia voters if churches should be allowed to incorporate, and Deputy Superintendent Michele Blatt talks about education after the pandemic.

Oct. 28, 2022

Mothman Returns In A Local Film And Our Song Of The Week, This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, the state’s best-known cryptid is back in the locally produced movie “Return of the Mothman.” Inside Appalachia producer Bill Lynch spoke with film director Herb Gardner about why people are still interested in the Mothman.

Oct. 27, 2022

COVID-19 Deaths And 'Us & Them' Dinner Party Talks Politics On This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, West Virginia surpassed 7,500 COVID-19 deaths earlier this week, and this has affected some counties in the state differently than others. Chris Schulz has the story.

Oct. 26, 2022

County With The Highest Rate Of COVID-19 Deaths And The Health Of The Chesapeake Bay, This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, Wetzel County has seen the state's highest rate of COVID-19 deaths. Amelia Knisely explored how the pandemic has impacted its community.

Oct. 25, 2022

Kentucky’s Recovery And New Book Profiles Storer College’s Longest Serving Black Teacher, This West Virginia Morning

On this West Virginia Morning, Lynn Pechuekonis in 2017 moved into her residence in Harpers Ferry, soon discovering it was the previous home of the longest serving Black teacher at the historic Storer College. Pechuekonis’ curiosity and research led her to create a biography about that teacher, William Saunders. Reporter Shepherd Snyder spoke with Pechuekonis about her book Man of Sterling Worth: Professor William A. Saunders of Storer College.