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Recently the secretive mink has become a hot topic in COVID-19 headlines. SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19) was detected in farmed mink in several countries including the United States. A wild mink tested positive near a farmed mink facility in Utah. While the mink, a mammal similar to weasels and river otters, is prevalent in the Mountain State, Sheldon Owen, wildlife specialist at the West Virginia University Extension Service, says there’s no need for alarm.

As conspiracy theories about COVID-19 vaccines seem to comfort some people, others are anxious to get the shot they believe will protect them from the deadly virus. Social media has played a role in the spread of information and mis-information alike, according to Elizabeth L. Cohen, associate professor in West Virginia University’s Department of Communication Studies.

With the announcement that Mylan Pharmaceuticals is closing its manufacturing facility in Morgantown, West Virginia University’s Bureau of Business and Economics director John Deskins says the “major blow” to the regional economy will be spread beyond job loss.

Research from two West Virginia University experts indicates that investigations into industrial accidents like the Charleston-area chemical plant explosion should be transparent and involve surrounding community members. Martina Angela Caretta, assistant professor in the Department of Geology and Geography, has interviewed hundreds of West Virginians about natural resource extraction over more than four years, noting they are aware of the economic lifeline these industries provide while still having the potential for environmental and chemical disaster. Erin Brock Carlson, assistant professor, Department of English, has researched the effects of industrial development, particularly pipeline construction, on state residents, finding a shared concern about accidents, and how best to protect themselves and their families.

West Virginia University experts are available to comment on the Dec. 8 Charleston-area chemical plant explosion. Harry Finklea, professor emeritus, C. Eugene Bennett Department of Chemistry can offer insights into the chemicals, while Michael McCawley, clinical associate professor in the Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, can comment on the effects of weather and terrain, the history of chemical plants in the area and the importance of vigilance in the areas around the plants.

Dale Olson, Lt. Col. (Ret) of the United States Air Force and adjunct professor in the Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Department at West Virginia University, reflects on the occasions he met his hero, the late Gen. Charles “Chuck” Yeager, an Air Force legend. Yeager, the World War II fighter pilot ace became the first person to fly faster than the speed of sound in 1947, passed away on Monday (Dec. 7) at 97.

West Virginia University experts Mira Danilovich, consumer horticulture specialist and associate professor, WVU Extension Service, and Sven Verlinden, director of plant and soil sciences center and associate professor of horticulture, Davis College of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Design, offer tips and guidance on how to keep your holiday décor long-lasting and safe.

In collaboration with local veteran support organizations, West Virginia University will commemorate the 79th anniversary of Pearl Harbor on Monday, Dec. 7, at 9:30 a.m. including a 21-gun salute with three volleys fired at 9:50 a.m.

4-H club members will have a chance to look away from screens and put pen and paper to use through the West Virginia University Extension Service 4-H Youth Development pen pal program which aims to teach youths about communication while fostering friendships and connections.

During this holiday season, West Virginia University Extension Service Agribusiness Economics Specialist Dee Singh-Knights suggests giving back to your community by purchasing foods and gifts from farms and agribusinesses in your area. She’s provided a few helpful tips for those looking to buy local this year.