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David Sibray

David Sibray is the founder, publisher and editor-in-chief of West Virginia Explorer, a news and travel magazine devoted to the state’s history, tourism, outdoor recreation and economic development. For more information, he may be reached at 304-575-7390 or at editor@wvexplorer.com
Communities

WVU researcher to help send swarm of robots beneath ocean ice

by David Sibray

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — Research from West Virginia University mechanical and aerospace engineer Xi Yu could help scientists reach ocean waters hidden away beneath ice shelves. The inaccessible waters under ocean ice contain information critical to understanding the impact of climate change, and Yu said she believes multiple marine robots, carried and coordinated by an intelligent … Read more

WVU At Macys Parade in West Virginia
Communities

WVU Marching Band to perform in Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade

by David Sibray

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — Representing West Virginia University and the Mountain State,  the Mountaineer Marching Band will participate in the 2024 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, marking the second appearance for the band in the historic parade. Macy’s Parade officials were in Morgantown, West Virginia, on September 16 to surprise band members with the news of their selection … Read more

Urban Forestry In West Virginia
Botany and Forestry

U.S. Forest Service to plant trees in W.Va. disadvantaged communities

by David Sibray

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The U.S. Forest Service has been awarded $1.5 million to plant trees in disadvantaged communities in West Virginia. Though the state is renowned for its forests, many cities and towns lack trees, especially in disadvantaged areas where trees have been removed. Wealthy neighborhoods, with tree-lined streets, are often more shaded than their … Read more

West Virginia Makes Festival in West Virginia
Arts

W.Va. Makes Festival offers $10,000 in prizes to makers of all ages

by David Sibray

HUNTINGTON, W.Va. — To celebrate the 10th anniversary of the West Virginia Makes Festival, scheduled for Oct. 6, 2023, the Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center is offering $10,000 in cash prizes to winners of this year’s design challenge. According to Kara Mullins, coordinator of the festival, makers of all kinds — artisans, inventors, manufacturers, and students … Read more

West Virginia Coal
Communities

Fallen Heroes emergency response drill underway in West Virginia

by David Sibray

JULIAN, W.Va. — The Fallen Heroes Mine Emergency Response Drill is underway in the southern coalfields of West Virginia, bringing together mining experts, safety professionals, and mine rescue teams. The growing event, now in its third year, is dedicated to enhancing safety preparedness and response strategies while commemorating the individuals who have committed their lives … Read more

Vacationers Lodge In A Cabin At Snowshoe Mountain in West Virginia
Recreation

Snowshoe Mountain to open skiing, snowboarding by Thanksgiving

by David Sibray

SNOWSHOE, W.Va. — In advance of a strong El Niño, officials at Snowshoe Mountain have announced plans to open skiing and snowboarding on the day before Thanksgiving, weather permitting, featuring a new chairlift and an action-packed 2023-2024 events calendar. Snowshoe president Patti Duncan says crews are installing a new chair lift in advance of the … Read more

Chelsea Ruby And Governor Celebrate Tourism Boom
Communities

W.Va. officials announce record $7 billion annual tourism impact

by David Sibray

DAVIS, W.Va. — Officials are celebrating a record $7 billion annual tourism impact in West Virginia in 2022 — a 17 percent increase in visitor spending compared to pre-pandemic levels, far higher than the national overall 1 percent post-pandemic tourism recovery. Gov. Jim Justice joined more than 300 tourism-industry members to announce “West Virginia’s best … Read more

Elk In West Virginia
Attractions

Elk management tours return to Chief Logan State Park in West Virginia

by David Sibray

LOGAN, W.Va. — Tickets for guided tours of southern West Virginia’s elk management area are available and expected to sell out quickly, according to state officials. The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources and West Virginia State Parks announce the much-anticipated return of Elk Management Tours, which allow nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers to witness … Read more