Recreation Funding Through CARES Act a Future Plan By ALAN OLSON Staff Writer Local municipalities are constantly eyeing new improvements to their parks, playgrounds and pools, and are hoping to use funding from the CARES Act to make it happen. Benwood has always taken pride in its recreational service to the community, with its pool a longtime summer hotspot for locals. Renovations to the pool were completed last year, and mayor Walter Yates said work to the municipal park is aimed at finishing up this summer; with the miniature golf course no longer in place, Yates says the city is looking to install a stage and screen for movie showings, plant fresh grass to complement the flowers, and, maybe, live music. “We took the golf course out, and we’re looking to put up a stage, level the ground out, plant grass where our beautiful flag is, and maybe show movies or if we have a band that wants to come play for us,” he said. “People may even want to come by and have some weddings. It’ll be real nice, for the whole community.” The pool renovations alone were reported as coming with a price tag of nearly $1.7 million. How-
Funding ∫ Municipalities didn’t realize it at the start, but they were able to use CARES Act funds to fortify their recreational activities, and did so once they learned of it. ∫ Much of those funds were used to stock up on sanitation supplies, everything from plastic barriers at pools to a John Deere Gator to safely haul trash. ∫ Now that they’re cleared to use the funding as they wish, municipalities are making it a future goal to use it wisely. ever, Yates said Benwood was only informed as recently as early February that the CARES Act funding could go to recreational activities, and that Benwood stands to get around $800,000 back from the state. “I do believe we’re close to $800,000,” Yates said. “There was a lot of work — you have to count everything, all the supplies, what went into the police department. We’re still doing pretty well, our (Business and occupation) taxes are down a bit, but we’re still hanging in there, and hopefully we get a new budget going starting July.”
Across the river in St. Clairsville, Parks and Recreation Director Sean Hanley said the CARES Act funding has gone largely to safety improvements. Chief among them, he said, was a John Deere Gator UTV — “basically a golf cart on steroids” — which provides a better means to move trash away from the Central Park Amphitheater. “That was, I believe, what funded our Gator, which will help us transport trash from our Amphitheater and other areas around our building to the Dumpster, without actually having to put the bio-
Photo by Joselyn King
The Benwood Pool is one of the prides of Marshall County, and Benwood plans to use CARES Act funding to better improve other parts of the municipal park.
hazard trash in the back of my vehicle, which I was having to do for the longest time,” Hanley said. “We also were able to get an eight-camera surveillance system for the building, down at the playground area, as well as at the Amphitheater,” he added. In addition to the technological upgrades and utility vehicle, Hanley said the city, like many, went all-in on using the CARES Act funding to procure sanitation supplies. “We were a big ben-
The resilience and strength of the Ohio Valley
Reimagining the Region
COMMUNITIES
eficiary of that, since we have so many people coming in,” he said. “We’ve got hundreds of pairs of rubber gloves. I’ve got sanitizer coming out my ears. All kidneys of bleach and other cleaning supplies. It’s benefitted us, for sure.” Moundsville reported a similar situation to Benwood, as it wasn’t until January when Moundsville City Manager Rick Healy said the city was fully aware that they were able to use the CARES Act funding for that purpose. “We actually have not utilized any of ours, yet,” Healy said in mid-February. “We’ve been fortunate enough that we’ve been able to put ours in a CARES Act line item of the budget, that the state auditor’s office set up for the money, and it’s kind of just sitting there.” Healy said the lack of utilization of the funds was out of an abundance of caution, not wanting to misapply the funds and cause issues down the line. “There was guidance to do that from the auditor’s office that was de-
layed for a long time, we couldn’t seem to get any good answers. We got the information from the Municipal League in January, or late December, that told us it was general fund reimbursement and could be used as any general fund money could be.” Healy said the city council would move forward, armed with a better idea of how to utilize the funding, but as of February, no action had been taken on that front. The City of Wheeling has put some of the CARES Act funding to use already, though, putting the funding toward better safety features for guests during the COVID-19 pandemic. “We used CARES act funding to purchase thermometers for screenings of employees and guests at our pools and the Nelson Jordan Center. With the funding we were also able to install plastic barriers at the entrances to the pools along with purchasing additional cleaning and disinfecting supplies,” said Rochelle Berry, director of parks and recreation.
Groups Provide Guidance to Businesses Seeking Help By JOSELYN KING Staff Writer Many small businesses struggling through the past year are in need of a little jolt from a “cup of Joe” to help them maneuver a new path into a postCOVID future. The St. Clairsville Chamber of Commerce sponsors “Coffee and Connections” events to bring their members together each month at the St. Clairsville Eagles. It’s a time for them to meet together and share information about what is working out at their business —and what isn’t — during recent trying times. It’s just the beginning of opportunities the St. Clairsville Chamber is providing its members, according to Director Wendy Anderson. “We could have sat on our hands and given the excuse, ‘The pandemic is just killing us right now. We are just going to have to wait,’” she said. “But we don’t wait... If we want to do something, we just do it.” The chamber is working with entities such as the Belmont County Community Improvement Council and Ohio University Eastern to pro-
Business Help ∫ Local businesses are finding new ways to market products, either online or alternatives to in-store traffic, as they navigate the COVID and post-COVID world. ∫ Groups are offering small business owners business education opportunities to show those owners the best strategies for them. ∫ Organizations like Wheeling Heritage are offering grants for small businesses who have plans in place for post-pandemic survival.
Photo provided
Sidewalk sales on warm summer days bring out customers in downtown St. Clairsville.
mote business education classes to business owners wanting them. This learning is especially helpful to new business owners, Anderson said. The classes help them determine whether their strategy is good when they enter a market, or if their financing is going to be enough.
There have been several small businesses to open in St. Clairsville during the pandemic, and they have received assistance from the chamber, according to Anderson. “Whatever they are selling, we market that for them,” she said. “We help them with ribbon cuttings, and give them
contacts with other businesses. If they are asking questions, maybe someone can mentor them. “COVID has been a deterrent for a lot of people,” Anderson said. “It has been something they have to get through to the other side of COVID.” She said she works with the Ohio Attorney
General’s Office to get any pertinent information to member businesses that they need. “If we have a small business that is struggling, we can also point them in the right direction,” Anderson said. Businesses are being encouraged to take advantage of alternatives to in-store traffic. This can include placing their goods online for sale, or offering curb-side pickup to customers. “They are taking advantage of all the opportunities available to their business, and making it stronger,” Anderson said. The chamber spon-
sored “Food Truck Fridays” each week last summer, bringing traffic to the courthouse plaza each week. Downtown St. Clairsville businesses opened up and had specials during that time. There were added attractions on the plaza — such as performances by the St Clairsville High School band, and demonstrations by a yoga studio. “Food Truck Fridays” will start up again in May, and will be joined by “Second Saturdays” events, she said. (Please see GUIDANCE, Page 5)
A Supplement of The Intelligencer, Wheeling News-Register and The Times Leader
Page 2 — Wednesday, February 24, 2021
Wilson, Heslop Funeral Homes Merge, Uniting Two Century-Old Businesses By SHELLEY HANSON Staff Writer Wilson Funeral Home of Bridgeport and Heslop Funeral Home of Martins Ferry recently merged. Both funeral homes have long histories in the Ohio Valley and were founded about the same time near the turn of the century. Wilson Funeral Home was founded in 1898 by Charles Adolph. Heslop Funeral Home was founded in 1896 by Robert Greenwood Heslop. “This is a transition for his family, for him and for us,” said Jason Wilson of Greg Heslop of Heslop Funeral Home. “He’s been very supportive of us working with him and taking over the responsibility that his family has entrusted us with.” Wilson noted the merger was a result of Heslop’s wishes to retire from the business. The Martins Ferry-based funeral home has been renamed Wilson Funeral Home Heslop Chapel. In addition to the Heslop Chapel in Martins Ferry, Wilson Funeral Home’s other locations are located in Bridgeport, Tiltonsville, Dillonvale and Mingo Junction. “The Heslop family is entrusting the Wilson family to serve the Martins Ferry community now and in the future,” Wilson said. Wilson said the funeral homes have two strong legacies that are coming together to serve Martins Ferry and the surrounding communities for years to come. “We will continue to serve people of all faiths in the Martins Ferry community,” Wilson added. Wilson noted during this transition time both funeral homes have also been dealing with challenges brought on by the
Funeral Homes ∫ The Wilson Funeral Home Heslop Chapel in Martins Ferry takes two companies to combine more than 100 years of experience each in the industry. ∫ The newly merged organization has used new technology like virtual meeting platforms to help comfort those dealing with their toughest moments. ∫ It will provide the same important service the community has come to expect and deserve.
“This is a transition for his family, for him and for us. He’s been very supportive of us working with him and taking over the responsibility that his family has entrusted us with.” Photos by Shelley Hanson
Heslop Funeral Home of Martins Ferry has merged with Wilson Funeral Home.
Shown here is the Wilson Funeral Home Heslop Chapel in Martins Ferry. COVID-19 global pandemic. “We’ve been dealing with changes to funeral services, using Zoom and other things we’ve never used before,” he said. Both families’ com-
panies started out also selling furniture while at the same time operating their funeral homes. This was common as funeral homes were known for their casket making skills, which also trans-
lated into skills for making furniture. While Heslop’s no longer makes furniture, Wilson Furniture operates a store in Bridgeport today. When Adolph’s sonin-law, Howard Wilson,
Jason Wilson
joined the company, the Wilson name was adopted as the company’s name. Since then, five generations of the Wilson family have been involved with the funeral home. “The son of Howard Wilson and Adolph’s daughter, Charles Adolph Wilson, founded the Wilson Funeral Home in Dillonvale, which remains in operation today. Their son, Charles A. Wilson, Jr., served as a U.S. Congressman and owner until his death on April 14, 2013. Charlie’s sons Jason and Jarrett Wilson own and operate the family business today,” according to information provided by Wilson’s. Heslop’s founder’s father, Robert G. Heslop, worked as an undertaker in England and also made caskets by hand. He and wife, Susanna Heslop, came to the United States in 1850. They lived in New York City and then
settled in Pomeroy, Ohio, where Robert Greenwood Heslop was born. He moved to Martins Ferry and married Eleanor K. Beymer. They lived on South Fourth Street, which eventually became home of the Heslop Furniture Store. “Mr. Heslop worked in the Exley planing mill on First and Hanover Street where he did hand carving. Robert Greenwood Heslop learned the embalming profession with the Frank Zink firm, where he worked until the owner sold the business. In 1896 he launched his own business in the Henderson Building on Hanover Street and the name was changed to R.G. Heslop Furniture and Undertaking,” according to information from the company. The business was handed down to succeeding generations. Greg Heslop served as president of the Heslop Funeral Home since 1998.
Reimagining the Region Ohio County THINK SPRING!
THANK YOU
Donors & Supporters
ize in Stone Beds & Mulch B l a i c e p eds! Call Today for Your Free We s Spring Clean Up Estimate SERVING THE OHIO VALLEY FOR 17 YEARS!
KREITZER LANDSCAPING
of the
Residential & Commercial
304-231-6839
Fully insured • Eric Kreitzer, Owner/Operator
WINTER FREEZE SHELTER
MUSIC at ST. MATTHEW’S FRIDAY LENTEN CONCERTS Sponsored by St Matthew’s Episcopal Church, Wheeling
St Matthew’s Parish YouTube Channel: “St Matthew’s Episcopal Church, Wheeling, WV” (Concerts listed below will be available for viewing and listening enjoyment beginning on the dates listed.)
FEBRUARY 19 - Edward Washington, Tenor FEBRUARY 26 - Robert Troeger, Organist MARCH 5 - Juan Carlos Jaramillo, Violinist MARCH 12 - Shane Musgrove, Percussionist MARCH 19 - John Alan Rose, Pianist MARCH 26 - Michael Schreffler, Organist APRIL 2 - Good Friday Liturgy with Music by Parish Choir Soloists
304-277-2660
A Supplement of The Intelligencer, Wheeling News-Register and The Times Leader
Wednesday, February 24, 2021 — Page 3
Libraries Recovering From COVID-19 By ROBERT A. DEFRANK Staff Writer The COVID-19 pandemic has made an impact on area libraries, changing how these public outlets serve the community. A casual patrol visiting a local library cannot help but notice new additions such as masks, clear partitions and the simple act of taking a book down from the shelves now requires patrons to set it aside to be cleaned before it can be replaced. With the end of the pandemic hopefully within sight, area libraries are taking stock of their programs and outreach efforts and how to continue offering both in-person and online activities in the future. Stephanie Hilfiker, reference librarian with the Belmont County District Library, said the goal is to be as safe as possible while being as normal as possible. “We’re going to be continuing the things we are already doing. The health and safety of our patrons and the people here at the library are very important to us. We’re going to continue quarantining the books for four days and cleaning them before we put them away,” she said. “We also are hoping to resume our programming in person in March. As part of that, we’re going to do temperature checks. We’re going to do limited attendance so we can make sure to stick to the social distancing guidelines. We’ll have people required to wear masks as they do now in the library,” she said, adding pre-registration will also
Libraries ∫ Technology advances are playing a part at local libraries, as patrons can download books and stream music and movies online. ∫ Safety and health precautions are paramount, so visitors can browse the bookshelves and enjoy books and periodicals without worrying about getting sick. ∫You’ve heard of people quarantining, but libraries are putting books in quarantine to make sure they’re ready for the next person to check out.
Photos by Robert A. DeFrank
Information Service Supervisor Preston Tedrick at the St. Clairsville District Library reshelves books. The libraries are looking to the end of the COVID-19 pandemic, but precautions and the use of technology will continue.
Melody Conaway, left, and Kimberly Reed work behind a clear partition at the Belmont County District Library. The coronavirus pandemic will continue to impact operations going into 2021.
be a requirement for the programs. “As for the actual programs themselves, those are going to vary,” Hilfiker said, adding programs will be placed on the library’s Facebook page as they are scheduled. “We’re very excited for resuming some of those in-person programs. What little we can do.” She hopes to resume popular crafting programs. There will likely
not be in-person speakers, but Bingo and trivia programs may also make a comeback on weekends. Hilfiker said prior to the holidays, the library had resumed some in-person programming and patrons found them very popular. “As much as everybody wants to stay safe and healthy, I think they’re ready to get out a bit more,” she said. “We’ve heard responses from people. We’ve heard how
excited they are.” At the St. Clairsville District, Director Doug Walsh and staff have worked toward making the library a resource central to community life. “We’re continuing to purchase (personal protective equipment) for visitors to the library and doing things to make the services that we provide during COVID safe and reliable,” Walsh said. He pointed out services such as automatic doors openers and newly-installed curbside lockers for 24/7 pickup. “We’re looking at summer reading,” he said. “Hopefully perhaps by summer we could be at a state where we can return to a somewhat normal situation. That’s our busiest time, during the summer, so we hope to have lots of programs.”
Online tools have enabled the library to continue some programs. “We adjusted what we could to a virtual state,” Walsh said. “The attendance and participation in those book clubs is just the same as it was before. They go into Zoom and discuss the book in that manner. We’re starting a children’s program, a preschool book club as well, and that’ll be virtual.” Walsh noted one recent virtual visit to the Pittsburgh Zoo and an upcoming antiques roadshow. “People can from their home show something, an antique, a family heirloom and get it appraised. We’re looking for virtual programs that are interactive and can appear to all ages,” Walsh said. “Libraries right now are quarantining books
and videos when they are returned. It’s a lot of extra work. St. Clairsville keeps them in bins four days before we get them ready for the next person to borrow. We also keep our newspapers out for just one day rather than in a stack for a whole week,” he said. “Also, people are borrowing a lot more online books and audiobooks in 2020, and we are using more of our budget to buy ebooks. People are finding how convenient it is to get things from the library without leaving home. I think that trend will continue long after covid is done. Besides e-books we added streaming music and movies that people can borrow from the library online. We also set things up so that people can get a new library card online.”
INCOME TAX RETURN SALE
SHOP - PLAY - STAY
OVER 7,500 SQ. FT. OF FURNITURE SHOPPING FUN. SERVING THE OHIO VALLEY FOR OVER 20 YEARS.
SAVE BIG! SAVE BIG!
ON OUR COMPLETE LAY-A-WAY NOW AND SELECTION PAY WHEN YOU OF TWO SIDED BEDDING RECEIVE YOUR INCOME TAX RETURN
SOFAS LOVESEATS CHAIRS RECLINERS LIFT RECLINERS TABLE & CHAIR SETS DRESSERS CHESTS NIGHT STANDS BEDROOM SUITES ODD DINING CHAIRS END TABLES COCKTAIL TABLES DESKS TV STANDS LAMPS PICTURES MATTRESS PROTECTORS BAR STOOLS BUNK BEDS KING’S BLINGZ JEWELERY
DOUBLE SIDED MATTRESS
WE DELIVER TO A VERY LARGE AREA INCLUDING WOODSFIELD, CALDWELL, CAMBRIDGE, MARIETTA, STEUBENVILLE, WEIRTON, WHEELING, ST CLAIRSVILLE, MOUNDSVILLE, PARKERSBURG, RIPLEY, CLARKSBURG, FAIRMONT, THEIR SURROUNDING AREAS AND ALL IN BETWEEN. OVER 99% OF OUR DELIVERIES ARE FREE. IF NEEDED, WE WILL DISPOSE OF YOUR OLD BEDDING OR FURNITURE AT NO CHARGE.
OVER 99% OF OUR DELIVERIES ARE
FREE
PLUS MUCH MUCH MORE!
Look for our Entertainment Schedule coming soon!!!
304-797-7001 www.topofwv.com
717 MAIN STREET,
SISTERSVILLE, WV 26175
304-652-4030 304-652-3032
A Supplement of The Intelligencer, Wheeling News-Register and The Times Leader
Page 4 — Wednesday, February 24, 2021
Tourism Councils, Groups Work To Stay Relevant During Pandemic Tourism ∫ Tourism councils are keeping people engaged with things like geocaching games and virtual tours of sites and virtual puzzles. ∫ Groups are taking their events to the great outdoors, allowing residents to see what those groups have to offer in a safe environment. ∫ Social media has become even more important, as tourism councils and groups use those social media sites to keep people informed.
CHAMBERS & JAMES Funeral, Pet & Cremation Services
We are pleased to announce that we, Chambers and James Funeral Homes, has been selected as one of America’s Best Funeral Homes because we are leaders in the funeral service profession with unparalleled experience in working with families from all walks of life. We pledge to be a resource for the entire community and accept the responsibilities entrusted to us with the greatest measure of integrity, compassion & respect. Give us a call to learn about our signature services.
304-737-3551 • 304-527-1717 www.chambersandjames.com Eric L. Fithyan L.I.C.
By SHELLEY HANSON Staff Writer Although travel restrictions have been lifted in Ohio and other states, many people still are staying at home in order to avoid possibly catching the COVID-19 virus. With this in mind, local tourism councils and groups have been reaching out to people via the internet and television, reminding them of safer ways they can enjoy life and what local attractions and businesses can offer. The Belmont County Tourism Council has provided people with fun, interactive ways to enjoy the county. For example, it set up a geocaching game that allows people to visit different historic sites in a treasure-hunt like manner. And for those who don’t want to go out at all, the tourism council also has provided virtual tours of sites, along with virtual puzzles as well. In her February newsletter, Barb Ballint, Belmont County Tourism Council executive director, said this is the time of year her group would be traveling and promoting the county’s attractions and events. But because of the coronavirus much of what may happen in 2021 still remains to be seen. “Last year during this time, we had already placed over 3,000 of our travel guides into the hands of potential visitors. Unfortunately, travel expos and shows have been cancelled. But the office continues to ele-
Photo Provided
The Black Horse Inn was past Belmont County GeoTour site, part of the Belmont County Tourism Council’s geocaching game.
vate recognition of Belmont County through our social media platforms and by way of mailings,” she wrote. Ballint noted a new geocaching tour is going to be launched, featuring 30 different locations across the county. Those who find all 30 caches, she said, can get a Belmont County GeoTour coin. She noted the council is continuing to offer its Grant Assistance Program, which helps nonprofit organizations continue funding fairs, festivals and museums. “So, even though we have not participated in the annual travel shows, it has still been a busy and exciting time of year for us,” Ballint wrote. To help support its member businesses and the community, the St. Clairsville Chamber of Commerce helped host and promote shopping events in downtown St.
Clairsville during warm weather months during the pandemic. Businesses were encouraged to feature some of their wares on the sidewalks in front of their businesses. And local vendors, artists and food trucks also could participate. In a similar vein, starting in March, the chamber plans to kick off St. Clairsville Second Saturdays, a weekly event to allow vendors and musicians to show off their wares and talents in the downtown and around the city. There is a reservation fee required. The Harrison County Visitors Center, Cadiz, continues to promote its county’s attractions and activities via Facebook. Because of pandemic restrictions, it helped promote a new way to hold a Christmas parade last year — a drive-by parade. The floats were stationary allowing people to drive-by
and look at them safely. Also in Harrison County, the pandemic didn’t keep the Clark Gable Museum from celebrating the Cadiz native and movie star’s 120th birthday this year, either. In addition to celebrating at the house on Feb. 1, the museum was also featured on Sal’s Virtual Road Trip, a program that can be viewed on YouTube. In Jefferson County, the Steubenville Visitor Center also continues to keep people informed and entertained via its use of social media. The city also went ahead with its Nutcracker Village in downtown Steubenville during the holidays. Though at one point public health officials raised some concerns about crowds there, the event continued with officials enforcing social distancing and mask guidelines to the best of their abilities.
Photo Provided
The Schaeffer-Campbell covered bridge is one the sites that Belmont County Tourism Council officials encourage people to visit during the pandemic.
A Supplement of The Intelligencer, Wheeling News-Register and The Times Leader
Wednesday, February 24, 2021 — Page 5
Businesses are finding new ways to market their products in order to remain profitable while still complying with COVID-19 restrictions. Photo by Joselyn King
• Moundsville
• Clarington
• Bellaire
• Wheeling/Bethlehem
• New Martinsville
• Sardis
Connie E. Grisell, LIC
w w w. g r i s e l l f u n e r a l h o m e s . c o m
Guidance (Continued from Page 1)
Across the river in West Virginia, Wheeling Heritage is continuing its plans to assist both existing small businesses and those wanting to become business owners. Since the start of the pandemic, the community improvement group has administered two rounds of CARES Act awards to small businesses. The first round last spring saw $29,000 in grants awarded to the city’s artists, entertainers and small businesses. Wheeling Heritage recently received $50,000 for a second round of awards. This time the money will be distributed to businesses who have demonstrated a plan to survive post-pandemic, but could use a financial boost to make it happen. Alex Panas, communications and development manager at Wheeling Heritage, said the grants are in addition to two important programs the group offers new and developing businesses. She said the first is its Co-Starters Program, a
10-week program during which participants learn about such topics as branding, marketing and price structuring. “The Co-Starters Program is for any business that already exists, or others who are toying with the idea of starting a business,” she said. “It walks them through the process of building a business plan from start to finish, and getting input from other business owners on what worked and didn’t work for them.” Financial experts also provide advice regarding financing and marketing. “And you are going through it with like-minded business owners who all just want to see each other succeed,” Panas said. Wheeling Heritage has also organized “Show of Hands” events in recent years, where four finalists present their ideas for a new business or expanding a new business. These events — sponsored by the law firm of Orrick, Herrington and Sutcliffe — often attract as many as 400 people
who pay to vote on the best presentation. Winners take home all money donated, and are guaranteed at least $4,000 to as-
sist in their idea. But two of the events were cancelled in 2020, and the fall event took place online.
Ohio Valley / Eastern Ohio Regional Transportation Authority 21 S. Huron Street Wheeling, WV 26003 (304) 232-2190
We’re keeping it Simple! • NO check writing fee • NO monthly fee if you maintain a $25,000 average daily balance and even if your balance falls below $25,000 the fee is only $10.00. • No Hidden Fees!
Base Fare $1.30 Age 65+/Disabled/Medicare Card 65¢ Bus Passes Regular.........$42.00 Special.........$21.00 Students.........$21.00
** The average daily balance is calculated by adding the principal in the account for each day of the period and dividing that figure by the number of days in the period.
Banking is easy with us! Call Us Today to open a Business Checking Account! 800-225-1620 hcsbank.com
ROOF INSPECTIONS FREE
& ESTIMATES
Q u h s a i m A EXTERIORSlity Specializing in Shingle & Metal Roofing
• Clean and Efficient • Licensed And Insured • Experienced Amish Roofers Call Merlin 330-763-3350 or Justin 330-988-4840
WIND & HAIL INSPECTION
A Supplement of The Intelligencer, Wheeling News-Register and The Times Leader
Page 6 — Wednesday, February 24, 2021
Local Parks Offer Variety of Safe Outdoor Activities in Midst of Pandemic By SCOTT McCLOSKEY Staff Writer Local community parks continue to offer visitors a variety of activities for those who are looking for safe and socially distant outdoor activities in the midst of the ongoing pandemic, according to local park officials. Since state and local restrictions began emerging at the onset of the pandemic last year — Oglebay and Wheeling Park in Ohio County and Grand Vue Park in Marshall County continue to be popular destination choices for locals and visiting guests. Whether it’s fishing, hiking, or just a drive through Oglebay’s annual Winter Festival of Lights, Wheeling Park Commission Executive Vice President Rod Haley said Oglebay and Wheeling Park have continued to see an increase in people taking advantage of the many outdoor activities offered at both parks. “We try to maintain our trails and a lot of people are hiking on the hardwood trails as well as the asphalt trails,” Haley said. He added that Oglebay
Local Parks ∫ Local parks have been open throughout the pandemic to provide a safe, fun experience close to home. ∫ Though there is safety in open spaces, those parks have not shirked their responsibility of keeping sites clean. ∫ Those parks have put into motion building even more amenities at their properties to keep guests coming back and happy. had a very strong Festival of Lights this past holiday season because it was an activity that allowed families to drive through the park in their own cars and remain away from crowds. “All of the activities and events that we plan, we keep in mind the social distancing and spacing, so we changed our activities to reflect that,” Haley explained. Just around the Schenk Lake area alone, visitors were able to enjoy activities like fishing, paddle boats, kayaks and the near-
by aerial challenge. “We were able to do all that,” Haley said. “It just required a lot more sanitation between uses and more spacing.” Haley said the both parks have continued to closely follow safety guidelines set by local and state health officials. “It’s just working very closely with the (Wheeling-Ohio County) Health Department, the West Virginia Governor’s office and the CDC and trying to make sure we can adapt to all the guidelines the best
OGLEBAY PARK we can,” Haley explained. to come and play in a safe He said both parks fol- environment.” low all the normal guideCraig White, general lines that involve cleaning manager of Grand Vue and disinfecting, masks, Park in Moundsville said and social distancing. the park has become an Haley said while park even more popular destiofficials remain hopeful nation for area residents things will continue to im- as they search for safe outprove in 2021 and beyond, door activities in the midst they will continue to follow of the pandemic. the necessary guidelines in White said that, with all place for the safety of their the safety protocols they visitors and employees. have put in place with the “If we still have to deal tremendous assistance of with some of the require- Marshall County Health ments, we’ll adapt,” he Department Administrator said, “but we’ll still give Tom Cook and his staff, the community somewhere they were able to move
Make 2021 A Year Without Pain! At Valley Rehab Center we offer hands on care using the most current and effective treatment for pain and loss of function.
Valley Rehab Center
Our services include:
• Dry Needling • Class IV Laser Therapy • Infrared Light Therapy • Postural re-education through use of kinesio-tape • Manual therapy and deep tissue massage • Infrared Sauna Space for Chronic Pain, Fibromyalgia, Multiple Joint Arthritis.
Join us for Workshop Wednesdays, the second Wednesday of each month, for a free workshop on various health topics!
Contact us at 740-325-1120 for details and be on your way to a healthier life!
Jerry Fiutem
“The Right Choice”
Mary Fran Kowalo REALTOR®
Kevin McGilton/Broker
931 Charles Street, Wellsburg, WV 26070 Office: (304) 737-0037 • Cell: (304) 639-1253 Fax: (304) 737-0034 frannykk@aol.com
Families... Ours and Yours
For five generations our family has been there when you needed us. “...because the memory will live forever.”
Since 1898
• Bridgeport • Dillonvale • Tiltonsville • Mingo Junction 740-635-0651 www.wilsonfuneralhomes.com
forward by continuing to offer many of their outdoor activities. “We did everything based on what the governor said … and then we went down and met with Tom (Cook) and we tried to figure the best way to make that happen,” White explained while talking about safety protocols put in place last year and the reopening of the park’s swimming pool. He said they continue to spray down and sanitize surfaces and facilities after each use. “So we’ve gone through the process that has been approved through Tom (Cook) and CDC regulations,” White commented. He said many of the popular activities were things that people could do by themselves or in small groups and easily socially distant from others. Some of those activities included walking, hiking, mountain biking and disc golf. “We did open the zip lines and follow the state guidelines the state put out for rafting and ziplining and we were able to go forward with that,” White said. He said since weddings were considered to be essential under state guidelines they were still able to conduct wedding receptions at a 50-percent capacity based on the same rules that restaurants have in place. White is quick to point out that not only is he excited about the activities and events they currently offer at the park for visitors, but he is also excited about some positive announcements the park has made this week concerning the construction of a new 40 site RV park, the revitalization of the swimming pool, and the addition of a new “hammock garden” this year.
A Supplement of The Intelligencer, Wheeling News-Register and The Times Leader
Wednesday, February 24, 2021 — Page 7
Cancellation of Popular Events Serves Biggest Blow to Local Landmarks By ERIC AYRES Staff Writer Local museums in the Ohio Valley have all been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, and many have found different ways to adapt to the changes brought about by safety concerns. While all area museum curators are eager to see things safely return to a pre-pandemic sense of normalcy, baby steps are being taken in many cases this year to keep visitors engaged and coming in to see local landmarks and the many treasures they have on display. Like most businesses deemed “non-essential,” museums were forced to close their doors when the pandemic first hit back in March of 2020. “We were closed to the public until after Memorial Day,” Christin Byrum, director of museums at Oglebay, said, noting that the staff began working on preparations for their eventual reopening from day one. “It actually gave us time to prepare and put safety protocols in place.” At Oglebay’s Mansion Museum and the Oglebay Institute Glass Museum, safety measures that were implemented included tough-free cash registers, strategic traffic-flow patterns inside the facilities, digitized materials and other safety features, along with hand sanitizing stations and required wearing of masks.
Photo by Eric Ayres
The Belmont County Heritage Museum in St. Clairsville had to close its doors to regular public visitation last year because of health and safety concerns related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We were able to adapt fairly well,” Byrum said, noting that the museum community across the country and around the world found itself connecting online and sharing ideas and inventive ways to best deal with the pandemic. “The biggest thing has been not being able to have group events. That’s been the biggest disappointment.” Last year, Oglebay’s annual Antique Show and Sale was set to celebrate its 65th year. The museum’s biggest annual fundraiser and largest antique show in the state had to be scrapped. Bigger gathers at Oglebay Park typically help draw crowds to the museum, too, but major traffic through group tours and motor coach visits could not be hosted last year during the peak season. Yet day trippers helped
balance out the loss of bus visitors, as walk-in traffic from local visitors and one-tank-trip tourists actually increased during the pandemic, Byrum said. Debbie Jones, site manager at West Virginia Independence Hall in downtown Wheeling, agreed that the larger groups and bus tours have been greatly missed. “Since last March, the school groups that we typically host just didn’t get to come,” Jones said. “None of them have been in. Most of the people we see are on short, getaway trips from Columbus or Pittsburgh. Major events at West Virginia Independence Hall also had to cancel over the past year. Big draws like the annual History Bowl, Constitution Day and West Virginia Day were all nixed in light of safety concerns for mass gatherings. Yet, the
historic facility remains open, and according to pandemic guidelines related to space, between 60-65 people can be in Independence Hall at any given time. “We are open, and we are here,” Jones said. “The doors are open, and it’s free for anyone to come take a look around. For a while, it was just the UPS man showing up, but this past weekend, we had about 15 to 20 folks come in. A lot of people are interested in our history, even folks from outside the area. I think people are looking for a reason to thaw out and get out. Hopefully the worst is behind us.” Museums have had to adapt by hosting smaller events instead of relying on their biggest annual draws. Some facilities —
like West Virginia Independence Hall, which is funded through the state — don’t have to rely on visitors and paid admission to keep afloat. Many other museums, however, depend on donations and admissions to fund their operations. In Belmont County, there are several museums to visit from smaller historic landmarks like the Great Western School on National Road near Ohio University Eastern to newer attractions like the TriState Military Veterans Museum in Belmont. “Unfortunately, most museums survive on events,” Barbara Ballint, executive director of the Belmont County Tourism Council, said. “Some people may visit a museum once to check it out for the
Museums ∫ With visitation slowed at many museums because of the pandemic, they are trying to drum up business by stepping up their online presence and networking better. ∫ They also have moved to scheduling visits by appointments. That way they can keep people coming through the doors, but keep the numbers at appropriate levels. ∫ Instead of major annual events, museums are booking smaller groups to make up the difference.
first time, but it’s the special events that give them a reason to come back.” Big events with guest speakers and annual displays with larger gatherings all had to be canceled because of the pandemic, Ballint noted. The pandemic has affected tourism in general that brings buses and outside dollars into the county with people visiting attractions like the National Imperial Glass Museum in Bellaire, the Stillwater Meeting House and Watt Center for History & the Arts in Barnesville, the Underground Railroad Museum in Flushing and the Sedgwick House Museum in Martins Ferry. Many have opened to limited guests on a callahead, pre-arranged basis. Facilities like the Belmont County Heritage Museum in downtown St. Clairsville did open doors to the public last year, only to make the “tough decision to close” again later when coronavirus cases continued to warrant health concerns. “It’s been really sad, because the events really help our museums,” Ballint said. “But the situation has forced us to be more creative, more innovative and to think outside of the box.” Ballint noted that the “Virtual Tours” section at visitbelmontcounty.com has been greatly enhanced and is a popular way to visit local landmarks under the circumstances.
Reimagining the Region Remembering You Cemetery Spring Clean-Up
We will be conducting our Spring clean-up at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Wheeling, W.Va., weather permitting, beginning March l and concluding March 15. All items will be removed throughout the entire cemetery (graves and mausoleums). Items in vases on the graves will be removed too. Please remove any items you wish to keep by February 28. After February 28 all items will be removed. Please do not place any items in the cemetery until March 16th. Further information is available at Mount Calvary Cemetery Office by calling (304) 242-0460. Copies of the rules and regulations are available at Mount Calvary Cemetery’s Main Office. Burial of the faithful and care for their final Catholic resting places with dignity, honor and respect. Mount Calvary offers grave space, mausoleum crypts, niche space and a full line of monuments, grave markers, benches and cameos.
ST. CLAIRSVILLE UNION CEMETERY Lots Available At Reasonable Rates
Call us for more information 740-695-1260
BLACKBURN Funeral Homes — Family Owned & Operated —
Hopedale 740-937-2461
• Pre-arrangement counseling • Offering cremations, full services & arrangements to fit every family’s needs • Director Claren Blackburn
blackburnfuneralhomes.com
The Ohio Valleys most distinguished perpetual care cemetery
Jerry Fiutem
• Moundsville
• Clarington
• Bellaire
• Wheeling/Bethlehem
• New Martinsville
Holly Memorial Gardens Contact us about our current pre-need offers & discounts 740-546-3351
• Sardis
Connie E. Grisell, LIC
w w w. g r i s e l l f u n e r a l h o m e s . c o m
Families... Ours and Yours
For five generations our family has been there when you needed us. “...because the memory will live forever.”
Since 1898
141 S. Marietta St., St. Clairsville, Ohio
740-695-1905
49480 OR & W. Station Rd., Jacobsburg, Ohio 73360 PLEASANT GROVE ROAD COLERAIN, OH 43916
WWW.DIGNITYMEMORIAL.COM
740-686-2525
We serve every family as if they were our very own
• Bridgeport • Dillonvale • Tiltonsville • Mingo Junction 740-635-0651 www.wilsonfuneralhomes.com
A Supplement of The Intelligencer, Wheeling News-Register and The Times Leader
Page 8 — Wednesday, February 24, 2021
Outdoor Activities Attracting More Visitors to State Parks By SCOTT McCLOSKEY Staff Writer Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, experts have said some of the safest places around are wide-open spaces away from the crowds. State parks are among the sites that best provide those features … and some fun along with it. Fishing, boating, camping and hiking are just a few of the outdoor activities that have attracted many people to state parks since the onset of the pandemic, according to local tourism and Ohio Department of Natural Resources spokespeople. Belmont County Tourism Office Executive Director Barb Ballint said her office gets a lot of calls from people interested in information about the local state parks. “We get phone calls a lot about hiking trails, bike trails, places to camp,” she explained. Ballint said from participating in online webinars she has learned that since the onset of the pandemic, state parks have been much busier with people looking for those outdoor adventures where they can socially distance from crowds. “Safety is at the forefront now,” she said.”When people can control their environment they feel safe.” Ballint said that, early
safely on the DNR’s web- household. Gathering in site ohiodnr.gov. When groups larger than 10 is visiting their website, prohibited. ∫ Avoiding crowded guests should click the red bar at the top of the home- areas. If a parking lot is page and the guidance full, move on to a different documents are on the right area or come back later. Cars parked illegally on side of the page. The Ohio DNR has roadways or grassy areas asked guests to protect will be ticketed or towed. ∫ Sanitizing. Bring themselves and others hand sanitizer with you from COVID-19 by: ∫ Staying home if you and use it and/or wash your hands with soap and are sick. ∫ Wearing a mask. water before and after you Masks are required when participate in an activity you are indoors or when outdoors. O’Grady said that, for you are outdoors and unable to maintain 6 feet of state parks overnight visitors, they have reduced distance from others. ∫ Keeping your dis- interactions with staff by tance. Maintain at least 6 making all their campsites, Photo Provided feet of distance between including horse camps, reBarkcamp State Park has experienced an increase in people looking for outdoor yourself and other visitors. servable through visiting ∫ Keeping it small. the website reserveohio. activities where they can socially distance since the onset of the pandemic last Visitors should only gath- com. She said this has led year. er with people in their to quicker check-ins for on in the pandemic, more ities this past year,” she parks have implemented and more people began said. “Our parks saw a to better accommodate showing an interest in the big increase in visitors in guests in the pandemic. many outdoor activities at the spring and summer of ”It’s important to keep places like Barkcamp and 2020 and they remained safety in mind when you Salt Fork state parks. busy as the weather got head outdoors,” she said. “They do have a lot of colder in the winter.” “(The) ODNR maximized people who come in with O’Grady said In the social distancing on some their campers and bring warmer months, camp- of its most popular trails, their trailers in and camp grounds saw dramatic such as those at Hocking there because of the horse- upticks and, despite being Hills and Maumee Bay State Parks back (riding) trails,” Ball- closed for several months state parks, by developing ∫ With COVID-19 making congregating inint explained. in the spring, statewide one-way trails so visitors Stephanie O’Grady, me- visitors stayed more than are able to hike and main- doors and mingling in large groups less desirable, dia and outreach specialist 10,000 additional nights tain safe social distancing state parks are seeing a huge boost in interest. ∫ Even in those wide-open outdoor areas, the for the Ohio Department in 2020 compared to from other visitors. Visiof Natural Resources, said 2019. In addition, lodges tors to Barkcamp and Salt parks have put together a number of guidelines to visiting the state parks, and cabins were also pop- Fork will notice additional keep proper space between guests and make stays trails and open spaces ular this past year and a safety signage relevant to worry-free. ∫ The parks went even further by all campsites are great ways to relieve suitable option for the cold social distancing.” stress, get some fresh air winter months. She said they have also able to be reserved online, cutting down even more and stay active. O’Grady also described provided specific guid- on person-to-person interaction between campers “People have found a number of changes and ance on how to enjoy their and staff. solace in outdoor activ- safety regulations the favorite outdoor activities
Reimagining the Region Marshall County Fostoria Glass Society of America 40th Annual Convention June 11th 12th and 13th
THINK SPRING!
GlassMuseum Dedicated to preserving the history of Fostoria Glass Historic Home with two floors of Fostoria Glass
511 Tomlinson Ave., Moundsville, WV
304-845-9188
Handicap Accessible Open March thru November Wed. thru Sat. 1-4 p.m. Memberships Are Available Group Tours Welcome Free Parking
www.fostoriaglass.org
VARLAS
247 Main St. • New Martinsville 304-455-2461 238 Jefferson Ave. • Moundsville, WV 304-845-1940 FR Clothing Coal Mine Clothing & Boots INSURANCE APPROVED
MOBILE SERVICE AVAILABLE
TRAILER PARK LLC
• RV & Mobile Home Parts • Mobile Home Doors • Windows • Plumbing Supplies • Heated Water Hoses • Propane Hoses & Regulators • Furnace Units • Korkay Cleaning Products
304-845-3855
PROPANE FILLING STATION
Quick & Hassle Free Propane fill ups Lowest price in the Valley!
New 20, 30, 40, & 100# Tanks
MASTER GLASS TECHNICIAN paulepfau@yahoo.com
MOUNDSVILLE, WV ST. CLAIRSVILLE, OH ZANESVILLE, OH
1-800-845-0726
LAUNDROMAT OPEN 7AM TO 9PM 7 DAYS A WEEK
large washers & dryers
1107 12th St. • Moundsville, WV 26041
Spring Clean Up Estimate SERVING THE OHIO VALLEY FOR 17 YEARS!
KREITZER LANDSCAPING Residential & Commercial
304-231-6839
Fully insured • Eric Kreitzer, Owner/Operator
MARSHALL COUNTY SPRING DUMPSTER CLEAN UP 2021 WATCH FOR OUR SCHEDULE IN THE INTELLIGENCER AND WHEELING NEW-REGISTER For more information, contact the Marshall County Solid Waste Authority 304-780-9866
POC: HowardCof@comcast.net
Behm’s Auction & Real Estate Service
Mon.-Fri. 9am-6pm • Sat. 9am-5pm Sun. 11am-1pm
Now Selling HeatStar Wall or Floor Mount LP or Natural Gas Heaters
ize in Stone Beds & Mulch B l a i c e p eds! Call Today for Your Free We s
Moundsville Housing Authority
501 Tenth Street, Moundsville, WV 26401 Public Housing Apartment Locations Golden Towers, Helfer Pavilion, Kermit/Gatts & Francine Courts, Dorsey Street/Burley Court Bedroom Sizes: Efficiency to 5 Bedroom
For more information call 304-845-3141 Or Visit our Website at: www.moundsvillehousing.com We are an Equal Opportunity Housing Provider
Call us for all your auction needs Serving the tri-state for over 75 years Courteous and Professional Staff
• Real Estate Auctions • Estate Auctions • Equipment Auctions • Appraisal Services • Business Liquidation Auctions • Auctions of Personal Property
Behm’s Auction & Real Estate Service, LLC Jim Behm, Broker
CAI, CES, GPPA
GLEN DALE, WV 304-845-2666 WIND RIDGE, PA 724-428-3664
www.behmsauction.com
Full Time Auctioneers Licensed In WV, PA & OH