VOL. 101 – ISSUE 12
THE TRUMPET WEST LIBERTY UNIVERSITY
FEBRUARY 3, 2022
WLU’s Student News Source
Panhandle Performance Zone officially open to West Liberty students - pg. 3 WLU Wrestling wins second straight MEC title - pg. 13 @TheTrumpetWestLiberty
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WEST LIBERTY UNIVERSITY
THE TRUMPET
NEWS
Graphic By: Haley Blakemore
WLU updates contact tracing protocol for spring semester - pg. 5
COVER BY: LACEY DEEM
CULTURE SPORTS Provided By: Dr. Steve Criniti
Dr. Steve Criniti wins 2020 Professor of the Year award, becoming 3rd WLU professor to earn honor in 7 years - pg. 7
THE TRUMPET
The Student Voice of the Hilltop
The Trumpet’s mission is to provide WLU students of all majors an opportunity to learn how to gather and present news information to the campus community, and to serve the campus community with fair and accurate reporting on matters of significance and interest.
Photo Credits: Hilltopper Sports
Women’s basketball continues to rise in MEC - pg. 14
EDITORIAL STAFF Editor-in-Chief
Annalise Murphy
Assistant Editor Brianna Hamon Online Editor Creed Kidney News Editor Olivia Romick Culture Editor Intern Kenley George Opinion Editor Intern Hanna Perry Sports Editor Intern Joshua Spratt Graphic Designer/Photographer Haley Blakemore Graphic Designer/Illustrator Lacey Deem Videographer/Staff Writer Kaitlynn Wheeler News/Sports Writer Anna Johnston Sports Writer Maxwell Fledorczyk Staff Writer Micahel Antley Staff Writer Samantha Bell Staff Writer Lizzy Griffith Director Dr. Danielle Mehlman-Brightwell
Letters to the Editor
To submit a letter to the editor, please email anmurphy@westliberty.edu. Please list your name, address, phone number, and email address; if the piece is published, you will be contacted to confirm your identity.
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NEWS
NEWS FEBRUARY 3, 2022
News Editor Intern: Olivia Romick
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- ogromick ogromick@westliberty.edu @westliberty.edu
Panhandle Performance Zone officially open to West Liberty students In January, West Liberty Univrsity held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Panhandle Performance Zone. The Panhandle Performance Zone is the main strength and conditioning training center for all of West Liberty’s student athletes and houses some of the most up to date equipment available. The ribbon-cutting ceremony paid tribute to the Contraguerro family and Panhandle Cleaning and Restoration as thanks for their contribution and guidance during the construction of the Performance Zone. Alongside the WLU Foundation, the Panhandle Performance Zone was privately funded by generous donors such as the Contraguerro family, Panhandle Cleaning and Restoration, Gary and Flip West and Bucky and Joanne Kopf. Angie Zambito-Hill, the WLU Foundation Executive Director said, “The WLU Foundation worked in partnership with Lynn Ullom, athletic director,WLU Athletics and several donors to identify donors, raise funds and manage those funds to complete the budget for the project.” The ceremony marked the official opening of the Performance Zone. The facility has already been put to use by several of West Liberty’s athletic teams over recent months, but they can now enjoy the officially updated amenities. “We officially cut a ribbon to indicate that the
Panhandle Performance Zone is now open and being used by student athletes from all athletic programs,” said Zambito-Hill. The Performance Zone is a significant upgrade from the aging weight room used by student athletes in previous years. WLU now boasts one of the best facilities in the region with 18 Mondo Deck lifting platforms and 16 Stray Dog posterior chain machines. Among the updated equipment are two complete sets of Iron Grip dumbbells ranging from 5 to 130 pounds. The middle of the gym is taken up by 20-yards of SporTurf artificial turf to provide an area for student athletes to work on sport-specific skills such as speed, agility and power. “The 18 racks with all the attachments are my favorite because it allows multiple smaller teams to workout at the same time and less groups for the bigger teams,” said Dan Hopkins, WLU Football offensive coach. “Also, the turf opens up so much more sport specific training capabilities,” he said. West Liberty’s Panhandle Performance Zone has been a long time in the making. “The planning for the weight room was led by Coach Roger Waialae and Coach Dan Hopkins of WLU Football. It was really their vision,” said Zambito-Hill. Ideas for the new facility from Waialae and Hopkins started brewing shortly after Covid hit in Spring 2020. The process was then one of trial and error before a final goal was settled on. “We worked with an architect to help
From left, WLU Foundation Executive Director Angie Zambito-Hill, Josh Contraguerro, Offensive Coach Dan Hopkins, Bob Contraguerro Jr., Bob and Jody Contraguerro Sr., Head Football Coach Roger Waialae and Athletic Director Lynn Ullom celebrate at the ribbon cutting for the Panhandle Performance Zone. Photo Credit: WLU Media Relations formalize that vision and then several subcontractors to do the work. Panhandle Cleaning and Restoration was instrumental in the renovation of the facility,” said Zambito-Hill. The variety of equipment available in the facility makes the new Performance Zone highly versatile and allows conditioning sessions to be more valuable for the wide variety of student athletes at WLU. Hopkins said, “The influence for the football team is that there are several new options to train more sport specific power and reduce the chance of injury with some of the attachments and equipment that allows us to work on building a stable and balanced athlete.” West Liberty Women’s Soccer Head Coach, Barry Christmas, echoed similar thoughts. “The student athletes are fortu-
nate to have such a facility,” he said. “In season we will have the room and resources to ensure the whole squad can train at the same time and be more efficient with our injury prevention process.” Christmas also mentioned how the increased size of the facility has made scheduling times for the weight-room much easier. Up to 60 student athletes can train in the Panhandle Performance Zone at once, so finding time slots that coordinate with other practices has become much easier for all coaches. “We are excited for our athletic programs to be able to utilize the Panhandle Performance Zone and become better athletes through performance enhancement and injury reduction,” said Hopkins. For updates on all things WLU Athletics, visit Hilltoppersports.com.
FEBRUARY 3, 2022
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NEWS
Campus food pantry receives generous grant from Sodexo
The West Liberty University (WLU) food pantry is restocking their shelves with new selections after recently receiving a generous grant from the Sodexo Stop Hunger Foundation. Sodexo Food Service Manager of WLU, Rebecca Bowman, applied for the grant as a complete surprise to Kate Billings, director of student life and the on-campus food pantry, to alleviate food insecurity among students. Upon acceptance, Bowman presented the $1,000 grant to the University Food Pantry. “It was really great to see our campus partners see that need and support us (the food pantry), “ explained Billings. “$1,000 in a food pantry can go a really long way. When we started off the pantry, we did a $500 purchase which filled up an entire university van, so $1,000 is even crazier to me.” In an article published by Maureen Zambito, director of media relations, Bowman expressed that she was pleased to be accepted and provide students with more options for healthy eating. The food pantry hopes to build their supplies through the purchase of a fridge or freezer that provides microwave-limited stu-
dents with a larger variety in meals. Through the newly received grant, Billings explained that the food pantry can look into these options and achieve their goal of expansion. The Stop Hunger Foundation partners with Sodexo to raise funds for non-profit organizations that work to end hunger for every child in the United States struggling with food challenges. In the past, the foundation distributed over four million meals to people and organizations in need. The recent opening of the WLU food pantry has sparked conversations between WLU and Sodexo regarding a solution to food insecurity on campus. While this plan is not finalized, Billings explained hopes of introducing a swipe donation system where students with unused meal swipes can donate meals to a bank of swipes that are transferred to students in need. The idea of a swipe donation system was brought to light by Aubree Story, a social work major at WLU. Story and Billings explored this situation to eventually find Swipe Out Hunger, a non-profit that directly works with food services like Sodexo. “With this non-profit, you can tailor your program for what best fits your campus. Whether it’s direct donations or meal donation
Rebecca Bowman, Sodexo food service manager, presenting the $1,000 grant to Kate Billings, director of student life. Photo Credit: WLU Media Relations swipes, that percentage of money then goes toward food for the food pantry,” explained Billings.The idea of this collaboration is in the early stages of development, but they hope to introduce this program within the next year. In the past, the food pantry has received monetary donations through their WLU Foundation account, but this is the first grant to be received from a third-party vendor like Sodexo. “Hopefully other people in the community or vendors in the area see this donation as an opportunity to get involved at West Liberty and support our food pantry,” said Billings. The WLU food pantry is a new initiative that resurfaced during the 2021-2022 academic year after closing around 2015. After revaluating the university’s diverse group of students, Billings and members of student life decided to reopen the pantry’s doors on the second floor of the Student Union.
Kate Billings, director of student life, restocking the food pantry. Photo Credit: WLU Media Relations
The food pantry runs on monetary and food donations from community members, staff and students. Students visiting the pantry select what they need through an anonymous process. Those visit-
ing for the first time must fill out a student intake form that asks for their student ID number for future research regarding how to better serve the students visiting the pantry. Students returning to the pantry after their first visit must complete an anonymous inventory sheet that asks for the number of items selected. With the beginning of the semester well underway, the food pantry is fully stocked and welcome to all students. Those interested in the sustainability of the on-campus food pantry can donate by purchasing items from their Amazon wish list. For more information or questions about the food pantry and their recent Sodexo grant, contact members of Student Life at activities@westliberty.edu.
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NEWS
FEBRUARY 3, 2022
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West Liberty University updates contact tracing protocol for spring semester son series or is unvaccinated, then that person has to quarantine for five days and wear a mask for another five. Those who are unable to quarantine will be asked to wear a mask for 10 days. If the individual experiences symptoms, they must get tested immediately or attempt to test on day five of their exposure if no symptoms arise. Students and faculty have the option of contacting Student Health Services to get tested on campus.
With the rates of Covid-19 Omicron variant cases running rampant across the country over the holiday season, administrators at West Liberty University have recently updated the contact tracing guidelines in place. West Liberty University’s Vice President of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management, Scott Cook, explained that these new guidelines follow the Covid-19 protocol of the Ohio County Health Department, which is a requirement for the university. The updated contact tracing guidelines affect all students and faculty regardless of their vaccination status. Those infected by Covid-19 will be contacted by Student Health Services on campus after proof of a positive test and will be required to isolate for the remainder of their quarantine. The new guidelines are Graphic By: Haley Blakemore centered around exposed individuals as they have more than a few options to keep themselves and others safe. The route in which exposed individuals must take all depends on their vaccination and booster status. For example, if a student or faculty member is named an exposed case through contact tracing, and that individual received either the booster shot, the primary series of the Pfizer or Moderna doses within the last five months or the Johnson and Johnson dose within the past two months, then that person has to wear a mask around others for 10 days, monitor for symptoms and test on the fifth day after being exposed to the positive case. If an individual is not boosted after the sixth month of being vaccinated but has completed the Pfizer, Moderna, Johnson and John-
(Photo Credits: XXX)
In addition to updating the contact tracing guidelines, West Liberty students and faculty were required to attend mandatory testing regardless of vaccination status during the first week of the semester. If a student or faculty member contacted Covid-19 before returning to campus and provided evidence of the positive test, they were not required to get tested. All infected individuals are required to fill out a positive request form to show proof of their positive test results. Those infected will be asked to leave campus. However, if they are unable to leave, Marcella Snyder, executive director of housing and student life, will place the infected individual in an on-campus isolation room. Designated quarantine rooms depend on the availability of housing. All meals will be delivered to isolation rooms by the housing staff per the request of the student in isolation. More information about Covid-19 guidelines and the updated protocol, visit this WLU link.
FEBRUARY 3, 2022
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NEWS
Press Release: Smithsonian lights up Main Street Weirton Provided By: Kyle Warmack WEIRTON, W.Va.
The Smithsonian traveling exhibit Crossroads: Change in Rural America will open at the Weirton Area Museum and Cultural Center (WAMCC) on Monday, January 31. A public reception at 5:30pm will be accompanied by refreshments and a talk by local historian Paul Zuros, author of the popular column “History in the Hills.” Sponsored by the West Virginia Humanities Council, the exhibit is part of the Smithsonian’s Museum on Main Street program—and in Weirton, it’ll be situated quite literally at 3149 Main Street until March 7, when it will move south to Wetzel County. “WAMCC Director Savannah Guz has been pulling out all the stops to put together incredible programming,” says Program Officer Kyle Warmack of the Humanities Council. “Musical performances, living history presentations, and talks on Weirton history, you name it. The community has really embraced the opportunity to put Weirton’s past and future in a national context.” The Smithsonian exhibit itself examines the present-day turning point at which many rural American towns find themselves. Since the early 1900s, rural America has experienced significant changes in demographics, educational opportunities, access to services, and economic viability. Today, the population of the nation’s rural areas is less than half of what it was in 1900, yet America’s small towns continue
to creatively focus on new opportunities for growth and development. Economic innovation, including investment in cultural and creative economies, has helped many communities create their own renaissance. The Crossroads tour is made possible through the Museum on Main Street (MOMS) program, an alliance of the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service, the Federation of State Humanities Councils, state humanities councils across the country, and cultural organizations in small, rural communities. Those interested in seeing the exhibit or attending WAMCC events should visit www.weir tonareamuseum.com for more information, or follow WAMCC on Facebook. The West Virginia Humanities Council, an independent nonpartisan nonprofit, is the state affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities. The Council is supported by the NEH, the State of West Virginia, and contributions from the private sector. The purposes of the West Virginia Humanities Council are educational, and its mission is to support a vigorous program in the humanities statewide in West Virginia. For more information, please email Kyle Warmack at warmack@wvhumanities.org
CULTURE
CULTURE FEBRUARY 3, 2022
Culture Editor Intern: Kenley George
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- kcgeorge@westliberty.edu
Dr. Steve Criniti wins 2020 Professor of the Year Award, becoming 3rd WLU professor to earn honor in 7 years
Dr. Steve Criniti, a professor of English at West Liberty University, won the 2020 Professor of the Year award, which was announced at the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission Meeting via Zoom in December 2021. Being announced as one of the five finalists in January 2021, Criniti was “truly humbled” to have been selected as the winner. When the finalists were announced, Criniti says he spent time Googling each candidate to see who he was up against. “I was just so impressed with the qualifications and accomplishments of the other four finalists, that I honestly didn’t think I had a shot. Therefore, it was both
“For me, it’s all about caring, I simply try to care about my students and their learning.” -Dr. Criniti Professor of English surprising and humbling to learn that the committee selected me.” Nominated by fellow faculty members, Dr. Sylvia Senften and Dr. Jeremy Larance in the fall of 2020, Criniti says the process of being a finalist was a “whirlwind.” In February 2021, Criniti participated in a Zoom interview with the selection committee who had planned a banquet for April 2021 where the final winner would be announced. “The award is technically a 2020 award. However, due to the surge in COVID, that banquet was pushed back several times (to June, September and November) before finally being canceled out of an abundance of caution,” Criniti explained. He was finally announced the winner nearly a year after his initial nomination. Criniti has been professing on the Hilltop since the fall of 2008 and has made impacts on the lives of students since his time here.
Provided by: Dr. Steve Criniti Professor of the Year Award
Anna Johnston, senior political science and sociology major, says, “I took a class with Dr. Criniti which I was really nervous about as I’m not an English major,
but he made the class so accessible and fun for students from every background and I ended up getting a lot out of it. He also clearly cares about his students and wants to try and make the class worthwhile for everyone. It was one of my favorite classes that I’ve taken at West Lib and I would recommend him as a professor to anyone!”
Provided by: Dr. Steve Criniti
Criniti himself recalls how a student reached out to him via email last semester to thank him for caring about them and the struggles they were having during the fall.
Criniti has published a “handful” of articles throughout his career but believes the great thing about the Professor of the Year award is how it focuses on rewarding good teaching.
tive literature from the University of Cincinnati, Criniti continues to use his education and expertise in the classroom to create a positive learning experience.
“To be totally honest, I’ve never thought of what I do in the classroom as “award-winning” by any means; I simply do “For me, it’s all about car- what I do for the sake of my stuing. I simply try to care about my dents,” says Criniti. Later he said, students and their learning,” Criniti “It is definitely nice to be recogstated. nized for the work that we do.”
The student was a transfer student and had not experienced that level of care and concern at the university they attended previously. “Knowing that we’ve made a difference in the life of a student, that, to me, is the best reward,” Criniti happily shared. Earning a Bachelor of Arts in English and professional communications from Wheeling Jesuit University, a Master of Arts in English from the University of Dayton and his Ph. D. in English and compara-
“The work I put into my teaching is the work of which I am proudest,” Criniti says. For more information, please contact Annalise Murphy at anmurphy@westliberty.edu. Also check out WLU’s Director of Media Relations, Maureen Zambito’s press release regarding the award by visiting WLU’s News webpage or click this link.
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FEBRUARY 3, 2022
CULTURE
Preview of WLU theatre department’s upcoming play The West Liberty University theatre department is presenting “Mr. Burns: A Post-Electric Play.” The play, written by Anne Washburn, is based on an episode of “The Simpsons”. A summary of the play by Concord Theatricals states, “After the collapse of civilization, a group of survivors share a campfire and begin to piece together the plot of The Simpsons episode “Cape Feare” entirely from memory. Seven years later, this and other snippets of pop culture have become the live entertainment of a post-apocalyptic society, sincerely trying to hold onto its past. Seventy-five years later, these are the myths and legends from which new forms of performance are created.” Michael Aulick, the Director of WLU Theatre said, “I chose Mr. Burns for several reasons. First, and always foremost, it was a challenging piece for the students in the program. It really requires three or four different styles of acting. From naturalism, heightened realism, to epic tragedy. There is music and a little dance. Other reasons are that it is a really interesting play that I am fairly sure most people around here haven’t seen.” “The students are doing more than acting,” said Aulick. “Delaney Bird and Len Batson are serving as the musical directors. Andy Dillie has been instrumental on some of the set design. Odessa Hores has handled most of the costuming. Isabella Costantini is the stage manager. Amethyst Alexander and Greyson Grimmet are the assistant stage managers and handle props.” Those involved in “Mr. Burns” have been preparing for the performance for quite some time. “We were supposed to perform this show at the end of
Photo Credit: Greyson Grimmet
last semester. However, the first show had to be delayed a bit due to COVID issues that pushed us to the spring. That meant we had a few weeks of rehearsals last fall, three weeks off for Christmas (we had zoom rehearsal) and then a few weeks in the spring semester,” said Aulick. Hores is a senior theatre student at WLU. They serve as the costume designer and are performing two different characters in the play. “The show itself is fairly wild to tell you the truth. It’s a very creative device for the topic of change and adaptation.” Hores noted that the show is one of the most out of the box pieces they have ever been a part of. “The post-apocalyptic themes on top of “The Simpsons” may seem crazy, but it’s truthfully such a fun show.” Greyson Grimmet is a junior theatre student and serves as the assistant stage manager for the play. “As the assistant stage manager, I essentially help the stage manager with whatever they need. I am either on book to help actors when they call for a line or help take line notes, which assists the actors with what lines they need to study more. Other duties are helping set up for each act, move
set pieces, spike the stage and overall just lend a hand to the stage manager.” Grimmet noted his favorite part of acting and assisting in a play by stating, “It starts off just being a script, words on paper, and we’re able to make it come alive and be something that we’re all a part of. Though, truly my favorite thing about being a theatre major and being in a show is the audience’s reaction. There’s no better feeling than seeing the audience’s faces light up at the wholesome moments, or hearing their laughter at the funny moments. It makes all of the hard work worth it.” “The mission of the theatre program is not to be producing theatre (doing popular plays). The main mission is to train young artists, so we pick plays that will extend their abilities by challenging them with the season selection,” said Aulick. Aulick said he “couldn’t be happier” with the work produced by students putting this play together. From Wednesday, Feb. 2 through Saturday, Feb. 5, the play will begin at 7:30 p.m. On Sunday, Feb. 6, the play will begin at 3:00 p.m. The performance will be located at Kelly Theatre inside the Fine Arts Building.
“The mission of the theatre deparment is not to be producing theatre (doing popular plays.) The main mission is to train young artists, so we pick plays that will extend their abilities by challenging them with the season selection.” -Professor Michael Aulick
Topper Idol Week #1 Recap Contestants moving on to Week #2: - Noah Horvath - Sarah Booth - Mary Thinzar Khine - Katelyn Carnot - Mackenzey Infanti - Sean Ball - Edward Engle Crowd Favorite: Sean Ball’s rendition of Come Together by the Beatles Week #3’s Theme: Favorite Disney Tune
FEBRUARY 3, 2022
CULTURE
PAGE 9
WLU students showcase work at Creative Arts Therapy Exhibit studio).”
On Saturday, Jan. 22, West Liberty University creative arts therapy (CAT) undergraduates and art therapy and counseling graduate students showcased their work at the annual Creative Arts Therapy Exhibit held at the Oglebay Institute’s Towngate Theatre, located in downtown Wheeling, W.Va. While the greater art therapy and counseling program is relatively new to the Hilltop, this is the third year that the gallery has been showcased for the community. Creative Arts Therapy Instructor, Terri Giller, elaborated on this community relationship by sharing that the exhibit hopes to provide awareness, as well as advocate, for the profession of art therapy, as it “can lead to organizations seeking the skills of art therapists to facilitate healing art opportunities for communities… this can [also] improve access to art therapy services for individuals.” From a student perspective, the opportunities that the gallery provides are invaluable not only to their needs as an artist, through showcasing their artwork for the public, but also their needs as a creative arts therapist, as both a practitioner and student. When asked why the exhibit was so significant for CAT students, Giller shared that it affords students the opportunity “to reflect on their own creative process” as well as their artwork in a new way; “[through] observing the piece in a public avenue, witnessing the impact that work has on the community, sharing with family and friends and gaining personal insights upon viewing the artwork in a new setting (outside of the classroom or
While the show is put on for the overall CAT program in general, student involvement is not limited to simply submitting and experiencing their own and others artwork in a new light, as members of the CAT Club choose the artwork they want to be displayed, prepare it for display, set up the show and attend the opening reception.
Photo Credit: Terri Giller
When asked what the process of art making meant to them, many CAT students shared that art is a way for them, not only as artists, but as people, to express what cannot be said through words. Senior Manuela Hoffman of the CAT program spoke on art bring a way for her to “tap into her inner needs”. “Sometimes when I don’t know how to express myself in words or don’t want to, art allows me to process what I need to express in another way, creatively. It brings me satisfaction and peace to be in that safe space. In this place I feel in flow with meeting my needs. Sometimes art is just the process of practice and having fun. Sometimes art helps me express emotions. Art is a daily practice for me. I always enjoy the process. For me it is an act of self-love.” Defined by the American Art Therapy Association as “an integrative mental health and human services profession that enriches the lives of individuals, families and communities through active art-making, creative process, applied psychological theory and human experience,” it is clear to see how much the CAT program here on campus has already brought to the greater campus community.
“Sometimes when I don’t know how to express myself in words or don’t want to, art allows me to process what I need to express in another way, creatively.” -Manuela Hoffman
Photo Credit: Terri Giller
Photo Credit: Terri Giller
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FEBRUARY 3, 2022
CULTURE
WLU faculty and staff display art in the Nutting Gallery on campus
The art faculty and staff at West Liberty University currently have various art pieces on display in the Nutting Gallery, which is located in the Hall of Fine Arts on campus. The faculty members that participated in the art show are Professor Aaron Anslow, Professor Sarah Davis, Professor Tom Estlack, Professor Brian Fencl, Professor Terri Giller, Professor Dr. Jeffrey Grubbs, Professor Moonjung Kang, Dr. Martyna Matusiak and Dr. Susan Ridley. The gallery will be on display until Feb. 16, 2021. There are various types of artwork currently on display like paintings, photographs, sculptures and silkscreens. Professor Brian Fencl said, “The theme of the exhibition is “nature.” As a group, we go through a process of submitting ideas for the theme and then voting until a favorite is picked. What makes the show so interesting is how each faculty member interprets the theme and then pushes their skills to interpret the theme. This is a show that has a lot of contrast to it. From the wild, natural lines of Dr. Grubb’s bringing nature into the gallery contrasted with Thomas Estlack’s geometric tower or my tonal works contrasted with the bright colors in Professor Giller’s paintings, the show just works.” Professor Terri Giller said, “I started a “birds and patterns” series in the spring of 2021, with a goal to create 100 birds and patterns on a small 4x4 inch canvas. I have completed most of those, with some 8x8 paintings and, as you see, a fabric hand-sewn Great Horned Owl. I like experimenting with the juxtaposition of the patterns and the birds. Sometimes I’ll choose patterns that mimic or exaggerate the texture or markings of
Dr. Susan Ridley’s painting “Plastic Oceans.” Photo Credit: Hanna Perry the birds, and sometimes I create Artistically, I specialize in landscapes, patterns that intend to express the seascapes, animals and abstracts inenergy or attitude of the particular spired by nature. Therapeutically, I bird species. My hope with this art believe in the healing power of creseries is to draw attention to comative expression to heal, empower mon bird species, and hopefully, and transform. The Faculty Show get people to pay attention to the was a wonderful opportunity to birds around them.” make a statement about the harmful effects of pollution and a reminder On Professor Thomas Esthat we should all do our best to tlack’s website, he described his limit our carbon footprint and to repiece called “Ephemeralization” spect nature and all who live on this that is on display by saying, “In this beautiful planet.” work, there are very few basic elements, straight lines and the joints Sophomore Creed Kidney used to hold them together. Once who is majoring in both illustration you have that, there are limitless and creative arts therapy said, “I possibilities. I’ve installed numerous loved this year’s show. I mean, evsculptures with these same pieces ery year I think the faculty wow all over and over again. The mirrors the art students, and just students are duplicating what is above them, in general with what they’ve been with no effort. The piece reaches working on in their own personal into the ceiling as if it’s continuing time as artists, which I really think to grow.” is the coolest part about the show. These are artists and designers that Dr. Susan Ridley said in a teach us every day and seeing them quote regarding her painting called get to work at their craft and also “Plastic Oceans”, “This artwork is have a space to exhibit it is so awea commentary on the pollution of some. It just shows us what talented our oceans and its devastating imand devoted faculty we have here at pact on the ecosystem. The inspiWest Liberty.” ration for the painting came from a YouTube video on animals that ask The hours of the Nutting for help. There was a video segGallery are Monday through Friday ment of a sea turtle covered in netfrom 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. If you haven’t ting and the people who helped to gotten a chance to visit this year’s cut the net and set the turtle free. exhibition, it isn’t too late!
Professor Thomas Estlack’s sculpture “Ephemeralization.” Photo Credit: Hanna Perry
OPINION
OPINION FEBRUARY 3, 2022
Opinion Editor Intern: Hanna Perry
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- heperry@westliberty.edu
Drive safely during snowy weather with these tips
The winter months in the Ohio Valley tend to bring a lot of unwanted snow. Snow can cause hazardous conditions while driving on roadways, so drivers must be cautious and patient during the winter season. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) stated, “In 2019, there were 440 fatal crashes, and an estimated 33,000 injury crashes that occurred in wintry conditions. Preparing yourself – and your vehicle – for winter weather is key.” In an interview, West Liberty University’s Health & Safety Specialist, Anthony Salatino, gave the following safety tips for winter driving: 1. Avoid cruise control in wintry conditions The Globe and Mail stated, “For Instance, Subaru’s 2018 EyeSight manual says to avoid cruise control on “frozen roads, snow-covered roads or other slippery road surfaces because the tires may spin, causing loss of control of the vehicle.” 2. Steer in the direction of a skid, so when your wheels regain traction, you don’t have to overcorrect to stay in your lane. Aceable stated, “Stay calm. Keep your foot off the pedals. Gently steer in the direction you want to go- don’t oversteer or jerk the wheel too quickly.” 3. Accelerate and decelerate slowly. The Ironton Tribune stated, “Accelerate and decelerate slowly. Apply the gas slowly to regain trac-
tion and avoid skids. Don’t try to 5. If possible, don’t stop when get moving in a hurry and take time going uphill to slow down for a stoplight.” eSafety stated, “Getting a heavy car 4. Increase the following moving on a steep, icy hill is difficult distance to eight to 10 seconds. and dangerous. Whenever possible, (When following a person, pick a get some momentum going on a flat spot that they’re at and count to 10 roadway before you carefully cruise before you reach that same spot.) up the hill.” Drive-Safely.Net stated, “Relax, back off, and keep your distance. While driving in hazardous conditions, you shouldn’t be concerned with what time you arrive at your destination. You should be concerned with simply arriving there.” Photo Credits: Haley Blakemore
6. Remove all snow and ice from the car and windows by using an ice scraper. 7. Keep a full tank of gas in case you get stuck in traffic or stranded somewhere. 8. Fill up your vehicle’s wind-
shield wiper fluid. Having windshield washer fluid in your vehicle will help you be able to clear off your windows in the winter when snow and ice melt onto your window while you are driving. 9. When the car is parked outside, pull the windshield wipers off the windshield so they don’t freeze. The Farmers Almanac stated, “Propping your windshield wipers up prevents damage to the wiper motor, should you turn on the ignition and have accidentally left the wipers on (and they’re frozen to the windshield), prevents damaging the rubber, when you have to chisel them away from the windshield, and makes clearing away snow and ice from the windshield easier.” 10. Be on the lookout for black ice and deer. These safety tips for winter driving not only help you but protect other drivers on the road. Follow these tips and stay safe while driving in these terrible winter conditions.
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FEBRUARY 3, 2022
Dorm room friendly TikTok recipes
OPINION
er five minutes. Cut the potato in half and use a fork to smash the inside, add your preferred amounts of salt, pepper, butter and shredded cheese and microwave it for another 35 seconds.
Graphic By: Annalise Murphy
After removing the potato from the microwave, cut the slice of bacon and sprinkle it on the top. Chives and sour cream are other delicious options for toppings. For more dinner recipes follow @theres.food. at.home on TikTok.
Living in a dorm comes with many challenges, and one we all face is figuring out what to eat. Though we have several dining options on campus, sometimes winter temperatures can prevent us from leaving our room. This doesn’t mean we have to eat unhealthy meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner because many healthy options can be made from the comfort of a dorm.
As the day winds down and you find yourself craving something sweet, instead of turning to the vending machines, why not make dessert yourself? Mug brownies are not only delicious, but all of their ingredients can be bought for a dollar or less.
Whether you’re waking up early for a 7 a.m. class or sleeping in before attending afternoon classes, fitting breakfast into your schedule can be a challenge. A healthy, low-cost and quick breakfast option is overnight oats.
For the perfect mug brownie, take two tablespoons of sugar, one and one-half tablespoons of all-purpose flour, two tablespoons of cocoa, two tablespoons of water, two tablespoons of vegetable oil, a pinch of salt and a splash of vanilla into a large mug.
This specific recipe calls for a half cup of old-fashioned oats, a half cup of milk, a three-fourths tablespoon of chia seeds, a fourth cup of strawberries and a three-fourth tablespoon of chocolate chips.
Mix until fully combined, then add as many chocolate chips as you prefer. Microwave the mug cake for 40 seconds and then enjoy this amazing dorm room dessert! For more dessert recipes follow @ellarosebakes on TikTok.
Overnight oats taste good with a variety of toppings so feel free to be
creative with your choices. After combining the ingredients and storing it in the fridge overnight, microwave for 45 to 60 seconds and enjoy! For more easy breakfast ideas, follow @bransclean on TikTok.
chopped tomato and mozzarella, and enjoy! If you struggle with folding wraps, there is a quick fix.
Eating healthy isn’t usually a top priority amidst homework, shortened sleep schedules and living on a budget. This wrap, however, is simple and of little cost to prepare.
Start from one end folding upwards about one-thirds of the way, then press down on this section with your thumb as you fold the ends into the middle. Now your wrap is fully encased and ready for you to eat! For more healthy lunch options, follow @its.chloeh on TikTok.
All you need is a tortilla, a tablespoon of hummus (feel free to add more), a handful of spinach or another leafy green, half of a Roma tomato and as much mozzarella cheese as you see fit. The recipe is straightforward and all you need to do is spread the hummus on the tortilla, add the greens, add your
An easy dinner option is a loaded baked potato. Begin by washing the potato and poking holes throughout with a fork or knife. Cover with olive oil and microwave the potato for five minutes. Flip the potato over and add a slice of bacon to your plate and continue to microwave for anoth-
SPORTS
SPORTS FEBRUARY 3, 2022
Sports Editor Intern: Joshua Spratt
PAGE 13
- jtspratt@westliberty.edu
WLU Wrestling wins second straight MEC title Last Saturday, the West Liberty University wrestling team won the Mountain East Conference Championship for the second consecutive year. The event was held at WLU in the ASRC where the Toppers were successfully able to defend their championship title at home. The No.4 ranked Hilltoppers were victorious in four out of ten weight classes and finished the day with 131.5 points, 14 points clear of Glenville State College in second place. Notre Dame College (Ohio) finished in third place followed by Davis and Elkins College, Alderson Broaddus University, Fairmont State University and Wheeling University in fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh respectively. Including the four individual victors, eight of Head Coach Danny Irwin’s squad earned MEC honors for their efforts. The firstplace finishes came from defending national champion Cole Laya, 2021 MEC runner-up Chase Morgan, No. 3 ranked Ty McGeary and No.6 ranked Francesco Borsellino. Laya provided the first championship victory for the Hilltoppers, toppling Glenville’s Kevin Meloni. Laya won 17-0 following a technical fall. The win sees Laya holding a strong position as he looks to maintain his regional and national titles later this season. Morgan was able to turn last years upset around and finish first in the 165-pound weight class. Morgan was able to snag the title of MEC Champion after a close match-up with Davis and Elkins Whiley Houser. This is the senior
Photo Credits: Hilltopper Sports from Ripley, W.Va.’s first time as champion. After getting his year off to a slow start, Chase is starting to come into his own again,” said Irwin to Hilltopper Sports. “It was exciting to see him wrestle the way he did today.” No.3 Ranked McGeary earned his win at 174-pounds in a 10-3 victory over Hunter DeLong from Glenville State. McGeary’s win was the tipping point for the Toppers and gave them the crucial points to ensure overall victory for the team. This is the first time the sophomore from McDonal, Pa., has earned the title of MEC Champion after a third-place finish last season during his freshman year at West Liberty. At 285-pounds, Borsellino closed out the winning streak for the Hilltoppers by successfully pinning Notre Dame’s Laron Parks in the third minute. Borsellino’s victo-
ry was met with a standing applause from the crowd after a stellar performance from the no.6 ranked junior. Tyler Warner earned himself a runner-up medal in the 141-pound weight class as Glenville State’s Ethan Hardy managed to topple the reigning NCAA Division II National Champion. Though not quite claiming the top spot, Warner took silver and earned second-team All-MEC honors. At 184-pounds and 197-pounds respectively, Drake Kendrex and Logan Kemp earned third place medals and honorable mention All-MEC honors. Kendrex overpowered Davis and Elkin’s Michael Schneider in a 6-4 victory while no.4 ranked Kemp defeated Notre Dame’s Thomas Schmitt 14-1. All West Liberty wrestlers who competed in the championship finished in the top four of their weight class and won at least one match during the day. The Hilltopper
squad is strong but they hold a high personal standard and are constantly seeking improvement. When talking to Hilltopper Sports, Irwin said, “if we are going to reach the goals we set for ourselves as a team, we have to get better. Happy with the win today, but we have two priorities going forward. We need to figure out who we want in our starting 10 and we have to lock down our last few areas of improvement. We have a lot of guys capable of answering the bell. It’s up to us to identify who’s going to be there for us in the end.” The Toppers return to competition on the mat on Feb. 5 in Berea Ohio at Baldwin Wallace University as part of the John Summa Memorial Tournament. The team then returns to home action on Friday, Feb. 15 in the ASRC. To keep up to date with all things WLU Wrestling, check out hilltoppersports.com and follow the team on twitter. Post with #ClimbTheHill to show your support for the black and gold!
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FEBRUARY 3, 2022
SPORTS
Women’s Basketball continues to rise in MEC drey Tingle has been performing on a completely different level against her competition, potentially pushing her in the running for MEC Player of the Year.
Photo Credits: Hilltopper Sports
The West Liberty University Women’s basketball team continues to turn heads throughout the Mountain East Conference (MEC), as Head Coach Kyle Cooper and Associate Head Coach Cassie Seth’s team are continuing to find ways to win critical conference match-ups in the final stretch of their regular season.
Tingle has experienced the best accolades this season compared to any other year in her career, as she currently leads all Division II women in triple-doubles, double-doubles, assists and ranks seventh in the nation in rebounds despite her 5’6 frame. Her 22 point, 14 rebound double-double against Fairmont State University, along with her near triple-double against Wheeling University, showcases her consistent plays on a nightly basis.
To recap, the youthful Lady Hilltoppers began their season with a record of 3-2 in their first five games, in which the team used those games to find their footing and build team chemistry for the matchups to come. Eventually the chemistry came, and the Lady Toppers began to mesh, with the biggest sign of improvement coming from the phenomenal team efforts against the University of Charleston on Dec. 8, 2021. Coming into the matchup, West Liberty knew the task that was ahead of them when facing Charleston, as the Golden Eagles had represented the MEC in the Elite Eight in last year’s NCAA Division II Tournament. Likewise, with the efforts of playmakers such as Dakota Reeves and Markyia McCormick, West Liberty knew they had a challenge ahead of them as they laid host for the conference contest. However, it ultimately was the Lady Hilltopper playmakers who rose to the occasion, as seasoned veteran Audrey Tingle dropped season highs in points (28), minutes (43), field goals made (9) and free throws attempted (11). Right alongside her was Corrine Thomas, the long range sharpshooter who contributed an additional 15 points. Although WLU only shot 35% from the floor, the 52% clip from the three point arc proved to be the difference. Along with
Anybody following the team and knowing about how Cooper and Seth’s team have operated over the years, would understand that they are focused on selfless, team oriented basketball performances.
stellar defensive efforts, the Hilltoppers earned every bit of a 7874 victory in overtime to move to 6-2 on the season. The Charleston victory was a catalyst of confidence for the progression of the season. The Lady Hilltoppers have gone on to win eight of their last 11 games since that matchup. Major games throughout that stretch have included wins against Malone University, Fairmont State University and arch-rival Wheeling University. The victory against Malone University served as the Hilltoppers’ signature out of conference win before a 16 straight MEC opponent tilt began as phenomenal efforts from standout forward Arriana Manzay led the way for the black and gold. While shooting 1013, Manzay put up 21 points while snagging 13 rebounds. Manzay’s efforts against Malone, along with a school record breaking and perfect 11-11 shooting performance against
Ohio Dominican University, earned herself a MEC Player of the Week accolade. Reigning back–to-back MEC Player of the Week honoree Au-
Currently sitting at 14-5 on the season, the idea of being a family oriented team remains at the forefront of priorities, as the remaining nine games of the regular season will put it all to the test. For more information, please visit hilltoppersports.com or email Fiedorcxyk at mrfiedorczyk@ westliberty.edu.
SPORTS
FEBRUARY 3, 2022
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West Liberty Men’s Basketball ranked 7th in the Nation is continuing to show their dominance as a top-10 team in the nation. With the season in its final third, West Liberty looks to finish strong, aiming their focus on the conference tournament and regional tournament, with the ultimate goal of bringing a championship back to the Hilltop.
Photo Credits: Hilltopper Sports
The West Liberty University Men’s basketball team continues on with their strong season, a year that has featured a season high 10-game winning streak, which has been good for an overall record of 17-2.
Even with a couple falters, this team still reigns one of the most premier programs in the country, as Head Coach Ben Howlett and his team show it game after game.
To recap, the Hilltoppers began their season ranked 7th in the country for Division II, mainly due to their returning cast from last season, in which the team made a deep postseason tournament run into the Elite Eight. Notable returners for the black and gold include the likes of Bryce Butler, Pat Robinson, Malik Mckinney and Will Yoakum, who looks to debut this season after recovering from a knee injury that sidelined him for the majority of last season. West Liberty provided a statement win in their first game of the season, defeating Winston-Salem State University by the final score of 104-82. During the 100th career win for Ben Howlett, 2020-21 All-MEC selection Pat Robinson led the scoring with 22 points. West Liberty began the season 4-0, which included a win against Mountain East foe Alderson Broaddus.
For more information, visit hilltoppersports.com. West Liberty Basketball Upcoming Schedule West Liberty answered flawlessly by winning their next ten games in a row. The winning streak included a massive win against the University of Charleston on Dec. 8, 2021. After the first half, Charleston went into the locker room holding on to a 48-44 lead, and shot a staggering 60% from the floor. The Golden Eagles eventually simmered out though, and were outscored by fifteen points in the second half, eventually falling to the Hilltoppers by the final score of 8978. For West Liberty, this was a massive victory for the team at this point of the season that continued to propel them upwards.
They soon ran into trouble against Notre Dame College, which ultimately resulted in an upset for the Falcons over the Hilltoppers. The game was quite the back and forth tilt, featuring seven lead changes.
Their next big test was a top 20 matchup against the 18th ranked Fairmont State Falcons. For West Liberty, the game began with a fifteen point lead into the locker room at halftime. West Liberty held an impressive 77-58 lead with thirteen minutes left in the game.
Down by a point with seven seconds left in the game, the Hilltoppers had a chance to win it at the buzzer, but the shot by Christian Montague could not fall, giving the Hilltoppers their first loss in conference play.
However, Fairmont State began to finally hit their mark, and came storming back in surprising fashion to stun and ultimately upset West Liberty. Much like a couple opponents West Liberty has faced in close games this year, Fairmont State
shot an incredible 63% clip from the floor in the second half of the game. With over 6 out of ten shots finding their way for a score, West Liberty saw a massive lead slip from their fingers. Although it was a tough pill to swallow, West Liberty has bounced back yet again, and continues to find wins throughout the Mountain East Conference. It was quite the feat to be as impressive as the team was last year, but this West Liberty team in particular
Feb. 5 @ Charleston Feb. 9 vs. Glenville State Feb. 12 @ Concord Feb. 16 vs. Frostburg State Feb. 19 @ Fairmont State
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FEBRUARY 3, 2022
WLU Track and Field returns to Youngstown for Mid-Major Invitational event. Hawthorne put up an impressive 9.90-meter score in the shot put event, placing her in third place.
The West Liberty University Indoor Track team travelled to Youngstown State University this past weekend to compete in the YSU National Mid-Major Invitational. This marked the sixth meet of the season for the Hilltoppers, and their first two-day event of the 2021-2022 calendar. This meet came just one week after the Toppers set multiple school records at Youngstown State last weekend at the YSU College Indoor Invitational. One major highlight of the weekend for West Liberty came in the men’s Heptathlon where Adam O’Donnell finished second overall and top-three in six out of seven events. O’Donnell held the lead until the penultimate event, the pole vault, but was defeated by Slippery Rock’s Jason Goodman after Goodman put up first-place results in the last two events. In the women’s Pentathlon, Meghan Hawthorne finished 16th, while Zayne Brakeall finished 20th in-part due to a disqualification for running around a hurdle in the 60 meter hurdle Photo Credits: Hilltopper Sports
Senior Michael Harriman won the Men’s 800 Meter Run event for West Liberty, beating IUP’s Kendall Brennan to the line by 0.27 seconds. The victory for Harriman comes just one week after he set the West Liberty school record in the One Mile Run at Youngstown. Harriman’s time of 1:53.91 was just 0.16 seconds off of the WLU school record of 1:53.75 in the event, which was set by Tavian Richardson in 2020. Other highlights of the weekend for the Hilltoppers included a ninth-place finish for Kelsi Hulit in the women’s Weight Throw event with a score of 14.45 meters, an eighth-place finish for freshman Mikhi Anderson in the men’s 60 Meter Hurdles event, a seventh-place finish by Hailey Carreon in the women’s 60 Meter Hurdles and a third-place finish in the seeded men’s High Jump event by freshman Liam Vinskovich, who turned in a score of 1.95 meters.
MEC was represented well by a victory in the men’s 4x400 Relay for Wheeling University as well as a win by Jabez Reeves for Wheeling in the men’s 60 Meter Dash. Also representing the MEC was men’s One Mile Winner Carter McKenna for Davis & Elkins and West Virginia Wesleyan’s Oliver French, who scored a victory in the 60 Meter Dash portion of the men’s Heptathlon.
SPORTS
Just one event remains before the National Qualifiers in the indoor portion of West Liberty’s track season, next Saturday, Feb. 5, in Alliance, Ohio at the University of Mount Union for the Jim Wuske Invitational. The event will begin at 10 a.m. in the Peterson Fieldhouse. For more information about West Liberty Track and Field, visit hilltoppersports.com.
The Hilltop’s Athlete of the Week
Adam O’Donnell
Also present at the meet were Mountain East Conference foes Davis & Elkins, Frostburg State, Glenville State, West Virginia Wesleyan and Wheeling University. The Photo Credits: Hilltopper Sports
Track and Field Year: Graduate Student Hometown: Martinsburg, W.Va. About O’Donnell: O’Donnell broke his own school record in the men’s heptathlon with a score of 4,894 points, best in the Mountain East Conference this season and 20th in the nation.