Morgantown Magazine - February/March 2016 by Morgantown Magazine

SNOW MUCH FUN!

Try a few of these great cold weather activities this winter.

BEHIND THE PLATE

Take a look at the kitchens behind some of your favorite restaurants.

MEDIA INNOVATION CENTER WVUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Reed College of Media opens its new Evansdale space to students.

5TH ANNU

BOM Awards 2016

volume 5

•

issue 3

PUBLISHED BY

New South Media, Inc.

709 Beechurst Avenue, Suite 14A, Morgantown, WV 26505 1116 Smith Street, Suite 211, Charleston, WV 25301 304.413.0104 • morgantownmag.com

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Nikki Bowman, nikki@newsouthmediainc.com EDITOR

Katie Griffith, katie@newsouthmediainc.com ASSOCIATE EDITORS

Zack Harold, zack@newsouthmediainc.com Pam Kasey, pam@newsouthmediainc.com DESIGNER

Becky Moore, becky@newsouthmediainc.com OPERATIONS MANAGER

Sarah Shaffer, sarah@newsouthmediainc.com WEB AND SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER

Katie Willard, katherine@newsouthmediainc.com STAFF WRITER

Shay Maunz, shay@newsouthmediainc.com PHOTOGRAPHER

Carla Witt Ford, carla@newsouthmediainc.com INTERN

Jennifer Skinner ADVERTISING & MARKETING MANAGER

Bekah Call, bekah@newsouthmediainc.com CONTRIBUTORS

Dana Coester, Mikenna Pierotti, Elizabeth Roth

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Please send photos and event information for The Scene to morgantown@newsouthmediainc.com.

MORGA NTOW N is published by New South Media, Inc. Copyright: New South Media, Inc. Reproduction in part or whole is strictly prohibited without the express written permission of the publisher. © N EW SOU T H M EDI A, I NC. A LL R IGH TS R ESERV ED

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EDITOR’S NOTE

he 5th annual Best of Morgantown awards were bigger than ever. We reorganized categories, added new ones, and promoted, promoted, promoted. The result? Hundreds of thousands of votes and lots of revelations. With this year’s competition, we tried to think of categories that would best serve the community. I can’t count the number of times someone has asked about the best place to get a car repaired, or the top spot for a good Sunday brunch, or even recommendations for a real estate agent in town— and that’s not counting the many emails our office manager fields from people who seem to think the magazine is a tourism bureau. The staff at Morgantown magazine know a lot about our town and we’re always happy to share that knowledge, but we’re even happier when others share their discoveries with us. For that reason, the Best of Morgantown competition was broken into two rounds. The first round opened a blank page of categories to the public to nominate favorite businesses, places, people, and organizations. For one month we collected write-in ballots online and on hardcopies scattered all around town. We even had writein category options in case readers thought we’d missed something important. The top nominees from each category were then selected to move to the second round of

MORGANTOWN • FEB/MAR 2016

voting—usually the top three, but if there were ties then we selected up to five. From there the ballots opened for another month of voting, and the race got intense. We posted updates each week to let readers and BOM nominees know who was in the lead. While response to the contest was overwhelmingly positive, we’re not going to lie. Some people were confused, in a way we’ve heard before. “Per usual, the categories are super weird and the selections in general confusing,” wrote one aggrieved reader. “Best bookstore followed by two major chain stores and the local textbook place—what?” Our answer to that is simple. When Best of Morgantown first launched in 2012, nearly all the local bookstores had already closed, and we’ve since lost the last of them. This year’s winner, Barnes & Noble, is doing a great job of filling local booklovers’ needs, and we’re happy to have them. Yet, this annual contest was created for locals and small businesses, and Morgantown magazine’s priority will always be the mom-and-pops, the longstanding High Street veterans, and the friendly local services that give our special town its character. We would be ecstatic for the annual Best of Morgantown awards to feature only local businesses, but it’s not really up to us—that’s on you and the community as a whole. Support your local businesses enough that they stick around. And then support them enough that they can win what is, admittedly and by design, a popularity contest. We eat, shop, play, and breathe local. Do you?

K ATIE GR IFFITH,

Editor

Featured Contributors Mikenna Pierotti Mikenna Pierotti moved to West Virginia in 2010 from upstate New York to complete her master’s degree in English, live in the mountains, and write. She loves digging around in the history, landscape, and culture of West Virginia, looking for those shiny gems that become great stories. She lives in Morgantown with her husband, Adam, her wiener dog, Tally, and far, far too many houseplants.

Elizabeth Roth Elizabeth Roth grew up fishing, writing, biking, drawing, swimming, and making music in beautiful Lewisburg, West Virginia. She completed her degree in visual art at West Virginia University in May 2013 and has been living in Morgantown ever since. She currently works as a multimedia specialist at WVU and recently added yoga and pottery to her ever-growing list of hobbies.

Dana Coester Dana Coester is an associate professor at the WVU Reed College of Media and creative director for the college’s Media Innovation Center. She previously served as assistant vice president for branding and creative direction at WVU’s University Relations division, where she was the creative director for several award-winning interactive campaigns. Dana has more than 15 years of experience in magazine publishing and media design and is a former art director and contributor for Time Inc.

Letters to the Editor Where the Sidewalk Ends Great piece re walking in #Morgantown by Pam Kasey in December issue @WVUPublicHealth Christiaan Abildso, via Twitter Share the Love! Lots of love to L.J. This is a beautifully written article by Katie Griffith from Morgantown magazine. Mountain People’s Co-Op, via Facebook Read It! Nice to see Honey from the Lion and Matthew Neill Null get some hometown love in the October issue of Morgantown magazine. Lookout Books, via Facebook

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MORGANTOWN • FEB/MAR 2016

In This Issue

ELIZABETH ROTH

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2016

Grilled & Garnished

Best of Morgantown 2016

Take a look at the kitchens and hardworking staff behind some of your favorite Morgantown restaurants.

After two months of voting, the results are in! Morgantown has chosen its favorites for everything from pizza to pediatricians to power players.

46 MORGANTOWNMAG.COM

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2016

In This Issue 24

28 14

Departments

This Matters 4 Hear This 1 WVU flutist Mirim Lee is making it big in the classical music world. 6 Love This 1 Marion Ohlinger readies a new restaurant to debut at the Seneca Center―with menu items you may remember from Richwood Grill. 18 Know This The Morgantown Utility Board serves up world-class drinking water and prepares for the future. 20 Read This Check out books by local authors Glenn Taylor and Alison Bass for winter-worthy reading.

MORGANTOWN • FEB/MAR 2016

23 Try This Morgantown’s adventure stores offer snow equipment to keep you mobile and entertained. 24 Eat This Visit any number of Morgantown restaurants for delicious soups. 26 Play This The new Morgantown Escape Room doles out puzzles worth solving.

6 Editor’s Note 28 The U Take a tour through the WVU Reed College of Media’s new Media Innovation Center with WVU professor Dana Coester. 76 Road Rage What will getting around Morgantown look like in a decade? 77 Calendar 80 Then & Now Kern’s Fort in Greenmont is the only original colonial fort building around.

EAT / LOVE / WEAR / SHOP / WATCH / KNOW / HEAR / READ / DO / WHO / WHAT

Behind Best of Morgantown

Our 5th annual Best of Morgantown competition drew hundreds of thousands of votes across nearly two months of voting. Here’s how it all broke down.

Most popular category

12.16.15

Most active day of voting

Food & Drink

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a smooch! Scientists agree that kissing heightens happiness levels in more ways than one: Feel-good hormones like serotonin, dopamine, and oxytocin start percolating while blood-vessel dilation can soothe minor aches and pains like headaches.

WVU in gold, blue … and white?

Ever wonder why the home basketball team often wears white? Mental Floss maintains it’s because in the early days of the sport traveling teams were less likely to access laundry services and clubs preferred travel with darker colors. Home teams had water and soap readily available.

Help search for Earth 2.0! Through the first week of April scientists with the Pale Red Dot project will broadcast their efforts in searching for an Earth-like planet in the Proxima Centauri star system. The Proxima Centauri is the closest star to our own sun. Follow along at palereddot.org.

MORGANTOWNMAG.COM

THIS MATTERS

THIS MATTERS HEARTHIS

Virtuoso in Training A combination of raw talent, intense training, and passion have propelled WVU flutist Mirim Lee across the ocean and toward her dreams. ➼ WAITING IN THE WINGS AT the Opéra Bastille in Paris, clutching her flute tightly, WVU student Mirim Lee was understandably nervous. But she’d worked hard to get to this point, traveled across oceans and thousands of miles from her home in Seoul, South Korea, to come to Morgantown, attend WVU, and perfect her talent. A few butterflies before a major performance weren’t going to slow her down. “When I was on the stage, all my worries went away. It was just my time,” she says. Winner of the grand prize for the woodwind division of the Virtuoso International Music Competition, Mirim earned the prestigious honor of giving a solo debut performance at the Bastille in December 2015. The experience was a dream. She considers it her greatest accomplishment. “I played very well, and I think most of the audience liked hearing my performance,” she says. “After, many came to me and complimented and encouraged my performance.” Like her audience, and many audiences throughout musical history, Mirim is easily swept up in the breathy elegance of this woodwind instrument. The way it weaves emotion into even the simplest of compositions captivated her from first time she heard it. “One day I heard one of my friends playing the flute, and I just fell in love with the sound,” she says. “The sound is so romantic.” Mirim picked up the flute herself when she was 15 and later began her studies in Morgantown in 2012 with the master of music program under

mentor and flute professor Nina Assimakopoulos. She met the WVU assistant professor while Nina was on tour in Europe. The experience convinced Mirim to make the leap from South Korea to Appalachia. At WVU she has worked on improving her technique and artistry as well as fleshing out her competition and professional portfolio. She plans to graduate with her doctorate in musical arts in 2017. The Virtuoso competition wasn’t her only big win. Mirim has been earning national and international success for several years, including the Intermusica International Woodwinds Competition, the Alexander & Buono International Flute Competition, and the South Carolina and Rochester flute association young artist competitions as well as the WVU young artist competition. But these wins are much more to Mirim than feathers in her cap. With her accolades in hand, she’s looking to pursue a highly competitive position as either a professional flutist in an orchestra, her top choice, or as a performer or teacher. No matter what her future holds, Mirim is grateful to have the chance to share her love of music with others. “Playing the flute in front of an audience, I can deliver my emotions to the audience through my sound. This is why I love to play.”

To hear Mirim play, check out this YouTube video: bit.ly/1ZNXVTM written by mikenna pierotti photographed by carla witt ford MORGANTOWNMAG.COM

THIS MATTERS LOVETHIS

Hill & Hollow The Ohlingers’ newest restaurant aims to bring the world to West Virginia and West Virginia to the world.

➼ MORGANTOWN’S BELOVED wandering cook, farm-to-table crusader, and culinary rambler is back and opening a new restaurant in the historic Seneca Center on Beechurst Avenue. And, in typical Marion Ohlinger style, he’s had his hands in everything from construction to sourcing local ingredients to fleshing out a wine list as long as your arm in the months leading up to the restaurant’s soft opening in early February. He admits there won’t be much sleep in his future, at least not in the coming 16

MORGANTOWN • FEB/MAR 2016

weeks, but that’s Hill & Hollow: just how he likes Victuals and it—dizzying and full Libations of bright potential. 709 Beechurst Avenue “What we’re doing 304.241.4551 here will be the next step in the evolution. Every year it’s been a little more farm-to-table. We just keep pushing the envelope as far as creativity goes. We are absolutely making a shot for more national recognition this time,” he says, standing in the almost complete main dining area of what will soon be called

Hill & Hollow: Victuals and Libations. The space, all earth tones, dark wood, and brick walls, smells of paint and possibility. If you’ve lived in Morgantown since at least 2013, you have an idea of what Marion means when he says “this time.” Marion and his wife Alegria’s culinary adventures in West Virginia, from opening unique restaurants like Richwood Grill to creating highly popular events like the Global Dinner Series, have become somewhat legendary. Hill & Hollow will be different for those accustomed to more conventional dining. But it will feel comfortingly familiar to those who remember, and mourn, Richwood, which closed in 2013 after the building owners decided to develop the property differently and denied the Ohlingers’ lease renewal. This new restaurant’s menu will initially include favorites from Richwood’s menu while staying true to the couple’s focus on local ingredients and fascination with global flavors. You might find black truffles from Paraguay served in a dish of locally caught pheasant or Brazilian cuisine made with ingredients fresh from the Ohlingers’ own home farm. Other dishes will be straight from West Virginia’s past. Ever heard of hog maws? Morel mushrooms? Pawpaw fruit? You will soon. “We’re going to be reclaiming our history and using local ingredients to do really exotic stuff.” Most of the Ohlingers’ dinner series events will also be hosted in the new space. Marion says he even plans to open for lunch in spring 2016. Hill & Hollow’s bar will have five taps serving draft microbrews from West Virginia and elsewhere, local and artisan liquors, and the extensive wine selection now in preparation. And thanks to the Seneca Center’s owners, the new bar is now topped with an exquisite Appalachian hardwood counter. The Ohlingers have a plan to use this place to elevate and solidify West Virginian cuisine in the pantheon of global flavors. “We’re trying to claim a little more of that Appalachian pride. At the same time, the global influence won’t recede in the least. It’s actually, hopefully, going to get a little stronger,” Marion says. “My motto for this place is: Bringing the world to West Virginia and bringing West Virginia to the world.” The restaurant is expected to open to the public early February. written by MIKENNA PIEROTTI photographed by CARLA WITT FORD

MORGANTOWNMAG.COM

THIS MATTERS KNOW THIS

World-Class Drinking Water The Morgantown Utility Board is on top of tap water quality.

MUB BY THE NUMBERS Largest publicly owned utility in West Virginia 25,300 customers 390 miles of water lines 300 miles sewage lines

➼ BACK IN THE 1950s, the Morgantown Water Commission dammed Cobun Creek at the south side of town, just upstream of its water works at the creek’s mouth on the Monongahela River. West Virginia University was expanding, and the little city was outgrowing its drinking water supply. The narrow, wooded, 56 million-gallon Cobun Creek Reservoir the dam created in White Park gave residents almost three weeks’ security for times when the Monongahela River might become contaminated or run low because of drought. Today, Cobun Creek Reservoir is a great place to walk the dog or bike a challenging trail. But with natural sedimentation that has reduced the reservoir’s capacity, plus another six decades of population growth, it now provides less than four days’ backup water storage. It’s not enough. “Put that in context of the Freedom Industries leak,” says Tim Ball, recalling the January 2014 chemical spill in Charleston. “Charleston’s water system was directly disrupted for a week.” That spill and West Virginia American Water’s handling of it were a huge wake-up call. The utility had to make critical decisions fast, but it labored under two major handicaps. First, it had no toxicity information on the tens of thousands of gallons of crude methylcyclohexanemethanol and other chemicals stored just upriver from its intake. And second, utility managers hesitated to close the intake because the utility had no backup source—ultimately contaminating tap water for 300,000, in some cases for weeks. “The standards and expectations changed after that,” says Tim, who, as general manager at the Morgantown Utility Board (MUB), holds ultimate responsibility for similar decisions here. “Expectations for watershed management and source water protection are all significantly higher now.” Lawmakers quickly passed a bill 18

MORGANTOWN • FEB/MAR 2016

requiring utilities to create Source Water Protection Plans, due in July of this year, but MUB was already on it. “And since then, we’ve voluntarily gone far beyond what the bill required,” Tim says. Morgantown-area residents enjoy MUB’s water, sewer, and stormwater services at rates well below those in other large cities in the state. The city’s drinking water is safer today than it was in 2014 and, with a modest rate increase, it will soon be some of the safest anywhere.

105 miles of stormwater lines Source water: 85% Monongahela River, 15% Cobun Creek Water treatment plant daily average: 11 million gallons/day Wastewater treatment plant daily average: 11 million gallons/day

Tim says. That is, rather than looking at

Managing Threats With an SWPP the chemicals stored in its 12,500-someAll we water drinkers want to know is, has our utility planned for potential disasters? A Source Water Protection Plan (SWPP) demonstrates just that: that a drinking water utility has conducted a commonsense process that identifies potential contaminants upstream and has created a plan for responding to spills. An SWPP has to, in part: » Outline the banks upriver that lie within a five-hour downriver travel time—that’s called the zone of critical concern (ZCC), the area where a spill would require an especially fast and pre-planned response. » List any threatening sites located there—like storage tanks, impoundments, and coal mines and Marcellus gas wells. Those are called potential significant contaminant sources. » Detail plans to minimize threats and respond to spills. An SWPP ensures a certain level of responsiveness—but Tim doesn’t think the ZCC concept goes far enough. “In our humble opinion, the ZCC is an oversimplification of a very complex, very important measure of source water threats,” he says. So here’s how MUB is going above and beyond. “We’ve applied the zone of critical concern standard to the entire watershed,”

acre ZCC, MUB is listing everything stored in its 1.6 million-acre watershed: 16,000 potential significant contaminant sources. The utility combed through state Department of Environmental Protection databases to compile a comprehensive roster of threatening sites and their sizes and toxicities. Next, it launched development of a powerful web-based mapping application. In it, Tim explains, each storage tank is rated on a “threat matrix” of four aspects: distance from the receiving stream, distance from MUB’s intake, quantity stored, and toxicity. “Something that has an extreme degree of toxicity might be more threatening to us even though it might not be immediately proximate and, conversely, something immediately proximate might not be that big of a threat,” he says. By the same token, he adds, there’s a huge difference between 5 gallons and 50 gallons. Each storage tank ends up with a composite threat score that will allow MUB to rank threats and systematically prepare for the worst of them. “I can, almost with certainty, predict that will take us beyond the ZCC,” Tim says. “We’re proud of this.” A second use of the same application, one that should give customers particular comfort, is real-time spill response management. When MUB is notified of a spill anywhere in the watershed, staff can

THIS MATTERS

10 Largest WV Cities’ Water and Sewer Rates $120 $100 $80 $60 $40 $20

water

sewer

enter the time and source into the application. From there, they’ll be able to retrieve toxicity information, work through a list of recommended actions, and see a mapped representation of the spill’s estimated progress as it travels downhill and downstream. They can also log actions, creating a running record of the utility’s spill response for later analysis. Gathering all this data for instant access in the event of a spill is a huge undertaking, Tim says, “but the benefits to our customers will be invaluable if and when a contamination occurs.” MUB is communicating closely with the highest-threat sources to establish good working relationships with regard to their spill containment facilities and notification procedures. And it’s establishing communications with emergency planners in all of the other 10 counties in the watershed. These steps will create the threat awareness West Virginia American Water in Charleston didn’t have.

Backup Storage, and Plenty of It Catastrophic spills are rare. Smaller ones happen from time to time, and the existing reservoir allows MUB to handle them so seamlessly that customers never know. “Often—two, three, four times a year— there will be events on the Mon that cause us to shut down and convert to our Cobun Creek intake,” Tim says. “We can do that in a matter of minutes, and we can continue production in our water plant without

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ever even shutting the plant down. But if we would have some extended-duration contamination, that existing reservoir is not going to be enough.” For that reason, MUB proposes to build a new, 370 million-gallon reservoir. Here, we benefit from the foresight of the Morgantown Water Commission. Soon after it built the Cobun Creek Reservoir, it took the prudent step of buying more than 100 acres farther up Cobun Creek in case a time should ever come when more water storage would be needed. Now is that time. The reservoir would occupy MUB’s land plus another 20 to 30 acres it would buy. “That would give us 33 days of storage,” Tim says. “And we project, 25 years from now, useful volume would still be about 20 days.” The new reservoir would lie on Cobun Creek south of Interstate 68. Construction is planned to begin in July of this year and is expected to take about two years, so filling the reservoir would take place in fall 2018. For maximum flexibility, MUB would configure the new reservoir to deliver water to the treatment plant either via the creek through the existing reservoir or directly by pipe—enabling the new reservoir to serve as another independent source. One final major water supply improvement is a backup generator. “Right now the power utility has two independent feeds such that, if they lose service in one part of their

power system, they can convert us to an alternate feed,” Tim says. But in the event of a region-wide power outage like the one after the June 2012 derecho, there may not be industrial generators available to lease as backup to the backup—so MUB wants a third source. “We could have a billion-gallon reservoir but, if we don’t have electricity, we can’t deliver the water to our customers,” he points out. To secure delivery of water to customers even during extended and widespread power outages, MUB wants to install its own generator.

Rate Increase To cover the costs of the new reservoir, pipeline, and generator, along with extensive sewer upgrades to catch up with regulatory, technological, and population changes, MUB has sought city council approval for a bond package. Assuming council support in late January has carried through to final approval in early February, customers can expect rate increases as of July 1. Rates would still be low. Because Morgantown currently enjoys some of the lowest water and sewer rates in the state—at an average of $15.48 and $18.64 per household per month, or $34.12 in total—the cost of the service upgrades would still total about half what Charleston residents pay. written by PAM KASEY

MORGANTOWNMAG.COM

THIS MATTERS

I try to make sure my audience knows that West Virginia is not a purely rural place with a purely homogeneous people.”

READTHIS

A Dedication To Place Award-winning author Glenn Taylor creates characters and places to honor, entertain, and hold a mirror to the history of his home state. ➼ IT STARTED WITH A NAME, a larger-than-life character, and a bevy of settings. Later it continued through a war and its consequences on a young life. More recently it’s glanced past Keystone, West Virginia, a McDowell County boomtown that today looks a far cry from the diverse, bustling city it once was. Author Glenn Taylor’s career has flourished from a deep 20

MORGANTOWN • FEB/MAR 2016

understanding of the history of his home state—from the birth of its industry and labor relations, through the patriotism that sent its children to war, and on to the bust that follows a boom—but his writing comes from the purely modern perspective of saving memory. With simple, yet lyrical prose, he’s crafted stories that have introduced readers across the world to

the mythos and the truth, both large and small, that create the atmosphere of West Virginia—the one place he feels he knows well enough to write about. Glenn is one of West Virginia’s most widely recognized authors today. The Ballad of Trenchmouth Taggart, a 2008 National Book Critics Circle award finalist, launched his career with an epic tale of the oldest living man in West Virginia, who, with Forrest Gumpian luck, finds himself in the thick of 20th century West Virginian and American history. Next came The Marrowbone Marble Company, which tells the story of a young man off to World War II and the consequences of coming home to Huntington, a job at the glass factory, and the struggles of race and class after the war. Most recently, A Hanging at Cinder Bottom, which starts with a dual hanging in a rough and wild coal town and quickly rewinds to a tale of long-con scams and romance, has been hailed by the New York Times as “can’t-quit-you” reading. Glenn’s writing deftly pulls together the fantastical of West Virginia—the tall tales and taller personalities that adorn this state’s history—and the quick, practical realism that long has defined its scrappy farmers, miners, loggers, wives, and children. But his inspiration comes not from the hills that writers and songwriters wax so eloquent about. He’s not from the riverbeds where generations remember with fond lucidity the joys of casting a hook and feeling the quick tug

COURTESY OF GLENN TAYLOR

GLENN TAYLOR

COURTESY OF GLENN TAYLOR; COURTESY OF ECCO/HARPERCOLLINS

THIS MATTERS

of a catch. He’s not from coalfields where a streak of soot across the face is worn as a badge of honor. As much as West Virginia can claim one, Glenn is a city boy. The Huntington native remembers clearly weekend afternoons spent at bat mitzvahs, the joys of Lebanese cuisine, and the convenience of ornate theaters just a bike ride away. “I didn’t notice the landscape or anything like that growing up,” he says, though he spent summers and weekends with his grandparents in Matewan and afternoons running around the hills outside Huntington. Like many children before him, Glenn had to leave West Virginia to find his appreciation: “I took it for granted and—you’ve heard this tale before—once I left at 18, the longer I was away, and the farther away I lived, it gave me a nostalgia and appreciation, a longing for where I was from.” The longing hit him in Texas, a landscape as unlike West Virginia as any you might find. “When I was in Austin, in grad school, I didn’t really know my subject matter,” he says. “I was just kind of writing wandering-youngman short stories like a lot of us do in grad school when you’re learning to be a writer. But on visits home at Christmas and in the summers I started getting interested in West Virginia history, and I started stealing these books from my dad like Thunder in the Mountains by Lon Savage, The Battle of Blair Mountain by Robert Shogan. I started reading them, and they started swirling in my mind.”

Those swirls soon became the basis of Trenchmouth. And, a few years later, a similar process focused on glassmaking in West Virginia opened his mind to Marrowbone. “I’m always writing to be accurate in terms of the way things were,” he says. “If I’m writing about a glass factory making marbles, I’m going to do my research so the people in glassmaking will say ‘Oh, he did his research.’ I want to make sure they don’t say, ‘Oh, this kid doesn’t know what he’s talking about.’” While Glenn says his main goal is to create engaging literature, he’s also mindful that his stories, as widely sold as they are, are helping to shape the understanding of West Virginians—not just in-state, but around the country and the world. France loves Trenchmouth. So does Germany. “I try to make sure my audience knows that West Virginia is not a purely rural place with a purely homogeneous people,” he says. “I think my latest novel shows folks that West Virginia is not just one thing, and that you can look at statistics about race or religion and, because of all the state’s rural areas, have a skewed perspective.” Glenn, now an English professor at WVU, recently returned from a trip to Nashville to the Southern Festival of Books, where he had the opportunity to discuss perspectives on place and people with other notable Appalachian and southern writers. “I’m teaching a class right now called ‘Place is All You Have,’ which is a quote from Mississippi

writer Larry Brown. He always got asked ‘What is it about Oxford, Mississippi, that produces so many great writers?’ And he said, ‘It isn’t anything. You take what you’ve got and you make your fiction from it, because place is all you have.’” Whether place means landscape, or people, or a mixture of both, Glenn understands what place and home give to a writer and how much they inspire his words. It’s why he has dedicated a career to giving back. His gift is genuine, truthful, and poetic storytelling. “I’m always worried that the people in McDowell County, for instance, will think that this is somehow disrespectful to them because the stories are so wild and focus on the boom times in a way that doesn’t romanticize them. It shows pretty wacky, rough stuff.” Instead the opposite has happened, he says. In one case, a library in McDowell requested a number of copies of Cinder Bottom. “I sent them, I didn’t hear anything, and finally I did email the librarian and was like, ‘What’s the word?’ And she said people loved them. They were requesting them in Welch and beyond. I find readers in this state are so generous and kind about the books. This is not some sensationalistic portrayal. It’s to honor what went on and what built this country—in large part the mines and the railroad.” glenntaylorbooks.com written by katie griffith

MORGANTOWNMAG.COM

says Alison Bass, an investigative journalist, WVU assistant professor, and author of a new book—titled Getting Screwed: Sex Workers and the Law. “It’s a long, ingrained attitude—centuries old,” she says. “The research is that the majority of men and women in sex work in the U.S. are doing it by choice. They are trying to pay their way through college or pay down student loans or are working as single parents. That’s the reality. I felt this was a story that needed to be told.” If not in that fictional alley, where, then, does Alison’s tale of uncovering the true world of prostitution begin? In the quiet halls of READTHIS a tiny New England college, of course— in an institution where Alison once taught journalism. “I hadn’t really thought about prostitution as an issue until I met Alison Bass, West Virginia University assistant with one of my professor and award-winning investigative students about journalist, takes on prostitution and the law in her draft. She was writing a profile her new book. on a woman, who called herself Jillian, who was working on behalf of IT WOULD SEEM THAT A TALE ➼ disenfranchised people in Northampton. about prostitutes, public health, and My student and I were trying to make the a flawed legal system should be set in a profile come to life,” Alison says. dark alley, lit by a single streetlight with In the course of this brainstorming shadows looming and a siren howling session, Alison’s student revealed that Jillian, somewhere in the distance. But that a 27-year-old woman who volunteered would be a dramatization at best—a her time to help the homeless and many fiction, many in the sex trade would other exploited and underrepresented argue, despite the image’s similarity groups, was also a sex worker. Intrigued to most mainstream portrayals. by Jillian’s story, Alison contacted her for That image is the root of the problem,

Behind the Curtain

MORGANTOWN • FEB/MAR 2016

an interview for her blog. At that interview, she discovered Jillian’s real passion was for making a difference. “She wanted to work on behalf of the less fortunate. But it was all unpaid. So she only had a few hours a day to work so she could spend the rest of her time volunteering. She opened my eyes to sex work in the 21st century. Then she put me in touch with others in the trade. And the stories they told me also clashed with the popular narrative.” Alison says her four-year investigation of the issue has told a much more nuanced story than what popular media and lore have described. In the U.S. there are many more adults who willingly choose prostitution as a profession than there are exploited youth or people caught in the web of trafficking. And statistically, criminalizing prostitution only makes it less likely men and women in the sex trade will seek health screening for sexually transmitted infections—or require their customers to get tested. Forcing the trade underground, Alison and many others argue, also encourages exploitation and gives more opportunities for violent predators to seek out these men and women to prey upon. The book lands a surprising conclusion: Prosecuting consenting adults “is a waste of taxpayer dollars. Many cities spend more on arresting prostitutes than they do on health care and education.” And if the sex trade were decriminalized and regulated, as has been done in many other countries and parts of rural Nevada? “You then can focus law enforcement attention on the real problems, the underage prostitution and the sex trafficking, which should remain illegal.” In a compelling narrative, coupled with solid, academic research, Alison takes an unbiased look at real sex workers, their views, and their lives in a modern world stripped bare under the glaring eye of social media and corporate surveillance. She unflinchingly unravels the laws, policies, and flawed ideals that have branched out from society’s long-held misunderstandings of what has been called the world’s oldest profession. She admits she draws some startling conclusions, but “for me, journalism exists to make people aware of problems and to effect change.” sexworkersandthelaw.com written by mikenna pierotti

COURTESY OF ALISON BASS

THIS MATTERS

THIS MATTERS TRYTHIS

Snow Much Fun! Just because temperatures have dropped doesn’t mean you have to stay cooped up inside. Morgantown’s outdoor and adventure stores offer plenty of equipment to keep you keeping up with those New Year’s weight-loss goals well into spring.

Yaktrax, $30

Walk, hike, and run through snow and ice with these footwear add-ons. Yaktrax fit over your boots and sneakers to add better traction to your gait using coils of wire. Morgantown Running, 709 Beechurst, Suite #1A 304.241.5223, morgantownrunning.com

Fat bike, $800–$6,000

When weird terrain—snow, mud, sand—is getting you down, a fat bike can keep you pedaling well into the drifts. With comically large tires and wide frames, fat bikes are designed for less-than-ideal conditions. Take one of these bad boys offroading, trail-riding, or even to work when the snow is too high to safely drive your car. Wamsley Cycles, 709 Beechurst Avenue Suite #3, 304.296.2447, wamsleycycles.com

Cross-country skis, $335+

There’s nothing quite like gliding through a wintry landscape, the quiet interrupted only by crunching snow. When icy Beechurst Avenue and Patteson Drive are too much to handle, strap on a pair of cross-country skis and leave the winter blues behind. Find exercise and transportation all in one compact package. Plus, with all that exertion, you’ll stay pretty warm despite single-digit temperatures. Pathfinder, 235 High Street 304.296.0076, pathfinderwv.com

Throwback snowboard, $130

It’s like a standing sled without the runners. Actually, that’s exactly what it is. This Burton throwback takes riders back in time to play on a 1980s snowboard model. Stand on the foot grips and steer with a rope and handle attached to the front of the board. You’ll probably want a helmet. Maybe kneepads, too. Pathfinder, 235 High Street, 304.296.0076, pathfinderwv.com MORGANTOWNMAG.COM

EATTHIS

More Soup for You! Local restaurants dish out plenty of warm and tasty creations all week long. Take a lunch break to soup it up.

Fishermanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pot Dark Ale Soup

Sargasso, $5 for a cup 215 Don Knotts Boulevard, 304.554.0100

Sargasso, $5 for a cup 215 Don Knotts Boulevard 304.554.0100

Butternut Squash Bisque

The Dancing Fig, $3 for a cup 2862 University Avenue 304.309.2344

Lentil Soup Mother India $2.45 for a cup 40 High Street 304.292.4499

Tomato Soup

Sargasso, $5 for a cup 215 Don Knotts Boulevard 304.554.0100

Cream of Cucumber Soup

Sargasso, $5 for a cup 215 Don Knotts Boulevard, 304.554.0100

MORGANTOWNMAG.COM

THIS MATTERS

PLAYTHIS

Beating the Clock Morgantown’s first escape room provides a new outlet for fun, games, and team bonding.

MORGANTOWN • FEB/MAR 2016

➼ WITH HALF AN HOUR TO GO, we had already picked over the coordinate points on a map, flipped through every page in a notebook, and cracked almost every combination lock. We were running out of things to decode. We had to be close to the end of the game—the puzzle: a locked room—or so I thought. But then one more clue opened an entirely different section of the room, hidden and full of more mind-blowing codes and complicated hints. I entered the Morgantown Escape Room with a group of friends and coworkers who were strangers to me. But after spending an hour trying to get out of our temporary prison with only a few hints and tools to guide us, we were thick as thieves. Located in Westover, the Morgantown Escape Room opened in October 2015. It’s one of the first escape rooms in West Virginia, though the game style has been trending nationwide in

THIS MATTERS

recent years. Based on computer games where users click on items in virtual spaces and use their brains to connect clues, live-action escape games provide hands-on, heart-pounding experiences for groups of friends or strangers. “It was a lot of fun,” says Emily Hoskins, who worked on cracking combination locks with me. “It’s challenging because everyone’s going in all different directions, but once you get focused on a task, it’s fairly easy.” Once we found the final key, the one that would get us out of the tiny room where we had spent 58 minutes scrambling for answers, we pushed our way through the door and cheered that we beat the game. The Morgantown Escape Room currently has two games to play: One is Detention Breakout, where four to six players can escape the teacher’s office together. We played the second, Race to the Game, a slightly larger room for six to 10 players who need to find a ticket to

the big game and the key to get out of the room. Each room can be completed in 60 minutes, though only a third of teams are successful. “It’s a gaming venue that is completely different from anything else that’s out there,” says Todd Downer, one of Morgantown Escape Room’s six coowners—three couples with a shared love for fun and games. “You get an adrenaline rush when you look up and see that clock and realize you’ve got five minutes to find that last key. Then it’s down to two minutes, then it’s down to 30 seconds, and then you’re really scrambling.” Even though the term “escape room” might suggest something more sinister, these games aren’t haunted houses, nor are they designed for super geniuses. Any group of teammates can combine their skills to beat the game together. “When someone leaves the escape room, whether they were there for a creative date night or corporate team building, we want them to have experienced

Clues around the an hour of incredible Morgantown Escape challenge and fun,” Room games give you says co-owner Kellie codes to not one but six different combinaCrowe. “We love what we do, and we’re tion locks. hopeful it shows in The escape room every part of our offers a fun and challenging way to bond business.” with friends, coworkEven with the ers, and strangers. stress of a time limit, my group spent most of our game laughing and high-fiving. The fun of the game isn’t necessarily winning. Rather, it’s all about how you work together with your teammates to untwist the most convoluted clues that you didn’t think you’d be able to decode. “Nothing is ever as it seems,” Emily says. “That’s what you have to keep in mind.” written by jennifer skinner photographed by carla witt ford and jennifer skinner

MORGANTOWNMAG.COM

THE U

Building for Innovation

A professor at the WVU Reed College of Media offers a look inside the new Media Innovation Center.

MORGANTOWN • FEB/MAR 2016

hat would you do if you weren’t afraid? With a nod to Silicon Valley, that is the question we’re posing to students, faculty, and community members as the WVU Reed College of Media opens its new 10,000-square-foot Media Innovation Center. The facility, located in the newly built Evansdale Crossing building, provides a technology sandbox for WVU students and faculty to collaborate with community and industry partners in hands-on innovation, creative problem solving, and collaborative learning. The new center expands the footprint of the Reed College of Media, located in historic Woodburn Circle on WVU’s downtown campus, to the heart of the Evansdale campus. By assembling creative

THE U

MIC Tour Entry and Viewing Lounge (1) The entrance includes a viewing lounge, a “blue sky” idea room (2), and a catering bar. It is a large open space that can be used for meetings, events, receptions, and other gatherings of up to 100. The corridor into the open forum will also serve as a gallery of exhibits from diverse media artists and photographers. AR/VR Studio (3) The AR/VR Studio is outfitted with specialized lighting, sound, backdrops and technology for advanced multimedia and interactive production with an emphasis on experiments in augmented reality, virtual reality, projection mapping, 3-D audio, and 360° storytelling.

3 thinkers from diverse backgrounds—from creative arts to computer science to health science—we hope to spark novel solutions to industry challenges. Students are experimenting now with virtual reality, augmented reality, drones, and sensors as well as classes in coding for mobile apps, entrepreneurship, community branding, data analytics, interactive gaming, digital storytelling, and more. The center’s launch theme—what would you do if you weren’t afraid?—encourages students to confront a fear of the unknown as a necessary first step in innovation. “The Media Innovation Center is both a physical space and a symbolic place, representing our focus on the future,” says Maryanne Reed, dean of the College of Media who currently serves as interim dean of the WVU Eberly College of Arts and Sciences. “We believe it is a major step toward

creating and nurturing an innovation culture among students and faculty.” Inspired by Google and other companies in the business of innovation, the space features a dramatic open layout designed to foster creativity across disciplines and ideas. “This space packs a transformative experience into a relatively small footprint,” notes Tom Price, principal and lead architect of the project for Strada, a cross-disciplinary design firm with offices in Pittsburgh and Philadelphia. “Each program area was designed to support varied learning, sharing, and creative activities.” We’ve traded confined, single-occupancy office space for fluid common spaces that invite interaction. Moveable, soft seating with vibrant colors and unexpected contours invoke the atmosphere of a grown-up playground, enabling users to reconfigure the space as needed for projects, classes and

The Forum This central corridor features flexible seating, docking for laptops, rolling white boards, and a multi-screen conferencing zone. This open area will accommodate workshops, community training, student meetings, and club events, and will serve as central venue for major events such as hackathons and industry partner ideation sessions. Maker Lab and Hacker Lab Our Maker Lab hosts a maker journalism class, a computer gaming class, and our experiments with sensors, 3-D printing, and drone technology. Hacker Space hosts “CodeLab,” a course developed in partnership with the entrepreneurial LaunchLab that teaches students from across the WVU campuses coding fundamentals as well as how to develop mobile applications for Android and Apple devices.

MORGANTOWNMAG.COM

THE U

events. Price adds, “The interior architecture is designed to be flexible and convertible, allowing the space to change physical shape to meet the needs of its users, foster their ideas, and support the technologies that they develop.” Jillian Clemente, a WVU sophomore currently taking a class called “Maker Journalism” in the center’s Maker Lab, is passionate about the potential to make a difference. “We’re making things that can change the world,” she says of her participation in the water sensor project called StreamLab. Students who worked on StreamLab built water sensors to collect data about water quality in West Virginia. “Journalists and inventors need space to solve world problems, and the Media Innovation Center provides this space,” she says. The Media Innovation Center integrates both low- and high-tech solutions for collaboration, from group spaces that combine floor-to-ceiling white boards with expansive glass wall views to advanced teleconferencing spaces that connect students and faculty with partners across the country. Nancy Andrews, the College’s Ogden Professor of Media Innovation, particularly appreciates the center’s spectacular view looking over the campus and to the mountains beyond. “The space is really a great metaphor for us—to look beyond ourselves, beyond the university, beyond West Virginia, beyond our field. From here we look to the future and the world.” While the center’s atmosphere encourages purposeful play, our work is mission-driven. We emphasize innovation that offers social change. Upcoming events such as the “Hack the Gender Gap” series embody this mission. In partnership with MediaShift, “Hack the Gender Gap” is an ongoing effort to close the gender gap in media technology leadership. The effort culminates in a spring event gathering college-age women from around the country to envision their roles and influence in the emerging “smartworld” market. The event will take place April 1–3 throughout the Media Innovation Center and will focus on new ideas like forms of sensor journalism, reporting with networked smart objects, storytelling with beacons, and combining augmented reality with 3-D printing, and their potential impact on journalism and media. written by dana coester photographed by elizabeth roth

MORGANTOWN • FEB/MAR 2016

5 Digital Storytelling Hub (4) Clad in brick and featuring a glass “garage” door entry, the Hub establishes itself as an independent building within the center. This space serves as command central for the college’s journalism capstones, houses our Knight-funded Innovator-in-Residence program, and hosts journalism experiments with new technology. Huddle Rooms (5) The center has two rooms for small group break-aways, project brainstorming, club meetings, and other workgroups. Featuring white boards and colorful, building-block furniture that can be reconfigured for different uses, the rooms express part of the center’s personality of purposeful play. Think Tank (6) The Think Tank has an adjacent observation room and recording technology to enable students, faculty, and industry partners to

6 conduct professional focus groups, media effects research, and consumer behavior and user behavior testing across new technology. Studio B This studio space features a broadcast quality control room and enables students to produce podcasts and multimedia programming. It will also be used to host speakers, presentations, and panels for webcasting. Strategic Communications Hub This hub functions as an IMC digital agency for strategic communications capstone classes and projects. It also houses the college’s Community Branding Initiative in collaboration with the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation, West Virginia Community Development Hub, and WV Living’s Turn This Town Around effort in support of economic development initiatives throughout the region.

Long hours standing next to grills that radiate 400-degree heat, mornings spent chopping pungent ingredients until the scents of garlic, onion, and paprika are a near-permanent quality of the air, burn and knife scars that riddle dexterous hands—behind the lilting flavors and colorful presentations of Morgantown’s favorite dishes stand dedicated kitchen and bar staffs. They’re the real reason—beyond top-notch service and décor—you return week after week to your favorite restaurants. Great food and drink is nothing without great cooks.

Green Arch Market T

raditional in the right ways and innovative where it counts, Green Arch Market is a refuge on cold winter nights when the wind howls its rage in single-degree temperatures. It’s the final stop on sweltering summer afternoons when it’s all you can do to crack open a cold one and hope for a breeze. It’s a home for good cooking when good cooking just won’t happen at home. For two years Matt Smailes’ life has been the restaurant-cumconvenience store sitting pretty in the middle of Greenmont. From 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. weekdays, and for a few hours on Saturdays, he stands alone at the grill where he flips burgers, slices tomatoes, and mixes what might be the best mac and cheese in town. His food is simple but high quality, and all ingredients are handpicked. He periodically closes shop to run errands. “I’ve built such a relationship with people that they understand when I have to close. I have kids, that comes first,” he says. “It’s an old-school mom-and-pop thing we’re doing here.” After 20 years in the restaurant industry, Matt has no plans to quit. “It’s feast or famine. It’s a highenergy job, and that’s why I picked it. A lady told me once, ‘No matter what happens in the world people will always need food and booze.’” 260 Green Street 304.381.4918

Matt Smailes’ Green Arch Market is a one-man show. Rain, shine, or two feet of snow, he’s waiting at the grill ready to fill stomachs. 32

MORGANTOWN • FEB/MAR 2016

MORGANTOWNMAG.COM

Black Bear Burritos T

here’s nothing quite like a Friday night at one of Black Bear Burritos’ two locations in Morgantown. If any place is synonymous with local culture—upbeat, quirky, a bit of Appalachian sophistication—it’s Black Bear, and you only have to walk in on a weekend to prove it. Lines from the registers stretch to the fronts of the restaurants, the bars jostle two deep, live music and conversation nearly deafen, and the menu puns never get old. The atmosphere is one thing, but the food is the real draw. Ever wonder about the people behind those plates of chips smothered in apple salsa and queso? Are elves, with tiny, nimble hands, the ones who pack those burritos so tightly? Who’s the person in charge of coming up with the specials that sell out almost as quickly as they’re announced? Under the watchful eyes of Ben Brady and Eli Romine the kitchen staff at the downtown and Evansdale Black Bear locations, respectively, do everything from food prep to final plating. Without formal culinary training to back the interesting flavor mixes typical of Black Bear’s menus, Ben and Eli rely on good, old-fashioned kitchen instincts. 3119 University Avenue, 304.777.4867; 132 Pleasant Street, 304.296.8696

from front left to back right:

Kitchen managers Ben Brady and Eli Romine are charged with overseeing the kitchens at the downtown and Evansdale Black Bear locations. The kitchen staff in Evansdale include Andee Dowling, Isaac Sams, Noah Basden, Van Morales, and Jon White. 34

MORGANTOWN • FEB/MAR 2016

MORGANTOWNMAG.COM

Real Juice Bar & Café

n energetic start to many a morning in Morgantown starts with a fresh cup of coffee, a just-baked bagel, and a twist of juice from the Real Juice Bar & Café on Pleasant Street. For two years under the direction of owner Ruth Haas and kitchen manager Tanicia Bagley, café staff have arrived every morning by 7 to clean, peel, and chop the ingredients that go into those famous juices. The prep work alone takes hours. On top of the raw ingredients to prepare, there are soups to whip up, bagels and breads to bake, coffee to grind, and customers to serve. “They’re busy all day long getting ready for the next day,” Ruth says. The kitchen is tight, but the staff is tighter. Laughter and playful banter ring out over the heavy sounds of knives splitting root vegetables and water running over dishes. As proud as Ruth is of her business’s success, she’s prouder still of the little family she’s helped to create. 119 Pleasant Street, 304.212.5213

from left to right:

India Ross, kitchen manager Tanicia Bagley, Emily Sabino, and Louisa Copeland get ready for a busy day at Real Juice Bar & Café.

MORGANTOWN • FEB/MAR 2016

MORGANTOWNMAG.COM

Tin 202 T

he décor at Tin 202, located on the corner of Pleasant and High streets, pops. Everything from the bar top to the shelves of bottles lining the walls shines with an old-world sophistication. The bartenders stand at attention, perfectly coiffed, with pens that match ties that complement the smooth smiles of staff who know their stuff. To the right of the long bar a window offers a glimpse into the tiny kitchen where a tinier staff of cooks whips up small plates to accompany striking drink presentations. Despite the small quarters, the chef and cooks chop, stir, and grill in spick black-and-white uniforms. Showmanship is the name of the game at Tin 202, but it’s hours of prep work that keep that show glamorous. Cooks under Executive Chef Josh McKenzie are in as early as 9, though the restaurant doesn’t open until 4. Beverage Director Josh Graham has his bar staff working two to three and up to five hours before the shift starts to juice hundreds of citrus fruits, make the espresso, and do all of the other little things necessary to get the bar ready. 202 High Street 304.212.5863

Server Audrey Biega, server and bar apprentice Mel Anton, host Victor Aguilera, co-owner Chris Evans, beverage director and lead bartender Josh Graham, bartender Rilley Lyndon, server and wine coordinator Brad Burton, co-owner Sam Schneider, and server Anna Beckett take a few minutes to relax between photos.

from left to right:

inset, from left to right: Chef Cody Cheesebrough, assistant chef Vincent Depinto, executive chef Josh McKenzie, and chef Richard Ryan take a few minutes out of prep to pose for a photo.

MORGANTOWN • FEB/MAR 2016

MORGANTOWNMAG.COM

Jasmine Grill S

amer Al Hallak and his wife Laila Boalbaki have created something special in their year and a half of business. Eleven-hour days, six days a week, plus weekly drives to Pittsburgh to pick up halal ingredients have turned their burgeoning business into a home-awayfrom-home for much of WVU’s Middle Eastern and Arab student population. “Our customers come every day,” Samer says, adding that most are students who appreciate Samer’s family recipes and the flavors of Syria, Lebanon, and the gulf. Since opening, the restaurant has undergone a few changes. Samer lost his partner but has added staff at the grill and on prep to help him and his wife with the workload. Though the restaurant opens at 11:30 daily, the kitchen lights come on at 10:30. The space is both tight and airy—each cooking station is used but tall ceilings create a sense of roominess. Grillman Stephan Storey compares the set-up to that of a ship. His captain is Ahmad Atallah. While the restaurant doesn’t really use titles, Ahmad is basically head cook. Strewn throughout the kitchen are gadgets and gizmos of all kinds: Special tools shape falafel and a standing rotisserie warms the shwarma. The most time-consuming dish is the shish tawook—a marinated chicken shish kebab that’s popular through the Middle East. This dish takes two hours to prepare from start to finish, according to Laila, and it’s also one of the restaurant’s most popular. 330 High Street, 304.291.7878

Stephan Storey and Ahmad Atallah help Laila Boalbaki and Samer Al Hallak in the kitchen at Jasmine Grill on High Street. 40

MORGANTOWN • FEB/MAR 2016

MORGANTOWNMAG.COM

Yama Japanese Restaurant

ifty pounds of rice every week, five gallons of soy sauce every two, and more types of noodles than you’d find in most Japanese restaurants—these are just a few of the ingredients that have made Yama Japanese Restaurant such a staple of the downtown Morgantown restaurant scene. The rest boils down to one man: Mitsuo Yamashita began training at the Hattori culinary school in Tokyo when he was 18 years old and later came to West Virginia by way of Cleveland and then Pittsburgh. It was in Pittsburgh that he discovered this area, hearing first about the large number of Japanese students studying at WVU. He decided to open a restaurant in downtown Morgantown, though his wife continues to live in Pittsburgh and Mitsuo makes the drive home every Sunday after he closes the restaurant. Yama is a hole-in-the-wall place typical of many establishments throughout Japan, and while its customer base has broadened from the Japanese students Mitsuo started with 26 years ago, the feel of the restaurant is much the same. Japanese daytime television plays over a TV, the signs and menus are clean and well-kept, though decades old, and it’s still just Mitsuo in the kitchen every day from 9 a.m. through 3 p.m. when lunch closes. He is back again from 4 to close after dinner. You’ll know him by the friendly wave that greets you as you walk in and that bids “thank you” as you leave. 387 High Street (entrance on Fayette Street) 304.291.2456

Mitsuo Yamashita opened Yama Japanese Restaurant 26 years ago and has manned the kitchen solo ever since. 42

MORGANTOWN • FEB/MAR 2016

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Atomic Grill A

tomic Grill is known for heavy metal and heavier food, but the kitchen staff that piles plates with perfectly-rubbed meats drenched with various barbecue sauces is as lean as any skeleton crew. “I can run the kitchen pretty tight,” says general and kitchen manager Michael Whalen. Two to three kitchen staff come in at 8 a.m. to get ready for lunch at 11. Three to four continue working through dinner until 9 p.m. “The first thing I do when I get here in the mornings is turn on the stereo and find a metal station,” Michael says. More often than not you’ll see why. The resemblance among staff is obvious: beanies, tattoos, and a piercing or two. “More than anything I look at this kitchen staff as my family. This is a crew I’ve assembled and we’ve grown together here.” Michael came onboard at Atomic in 2013 as a line cook and worked his way up to GM. “Chrissy Watts and I come up with the daily specials—we like to come up with goofy puns. First thing in the morning we get everything loaded and heating up. Our grill guy starts looking at what needs to be put in the smoker. We usually have everything ready by 11 and the rest of the day is spent keeping up.” 595 Greenbag Road, 304.241.1170

from left to right:

Andrew Szanto starts his first morning at Atomic Grill under the expert tutelage of Michael Whalen, general manager, Chrissy Watts, head of prep, and a shy grill guy who refused to be photographed but whom Michael refers to as his No. 1.

MORGANTOWN • FEB/MAR 2016

MORGANTOWNMAG.COM

The Best of

MORGANTOWN Awards 2016

Two months of voting and thousands of ballots cast have revealed the Best of Morgantown for 2016—everything from your favorite media personality to the town’s top gym to the best place to find vegetarian-friendly food. In this year’s edition, our fifth annual, we added dozens more categories to make sure the awards were inclusive of all the local people, businesses, and organizations that make Morgantown such a great place to live. Congrats to all our winners, the people and places you’re sure to love in 2016.

FOOD & DRINK PERSONALITIES DOWNTIME SHOPPING SERVICES BLUE & GOLD HEALTH & WELLNESS

MORGANTOWN’S TOP SPOTS TO EAT, DRINK, AND HAVE A GOOD TIME.

BEST BBQ JOINT

Atomic Grill

Since opening in 2013, Atomic Grill has been serving West Virginia barbecue on everything from brisket to tofu. Atomic recently opened a second location—staffing the kitchen at 123 Pleasant Street, in addition to its space on Greenbag Road—making access to delectable barbecue even easier. Regulars love the seven sauces, ranging from sweet to fiery hot, and swoon-worthy appetizers like the Appalachian Bruschetta made of cornbread crostini and a variety of locally inspired toppings. 595 Greenbag Road, 304.241.1170, facebook.com/atomicgrill

BEST FARMERS’ MARKET

Morgantown Farmers Market

Morgantown Farmers Market offers produce and fresh-food options at the corner of Spruce and Fayette streets on Saturdays from May through November and on select Saturdays from January through April. In 2002 a small group of farmers and community members came together with the goal of offering a reliable weekly market, and what started as a small gathering of producers at the Seneca Center has become, more than a decade later, one of the most anticipated weekly events in town. 415 Spruce Street, morgantownfarmers.org

BEST BREAKFAST

BEST WINERY

Located off the rail-trail in Star City, this café is bustling all the way through lunch, though breakfast selections end at 10:30 a.m. Regulars love the healthy, tasty fare—everything from smoked salmon on a bagel to savory steak and eggs. 425 Industrial Avenue, Star City, 304.554.2233, terracafewv.com

An award-winning winery perched atop a 16-acre plot of picturesque Appalachian foothills, Forks of Cheat produces more than 20,000 gallons of wines every year. The winery boasts sweet reds, dry whites, fruity libations, and everything in between. Enjoy a sample or two in the spacious tasting room and then head outside to a beautiful deck to enjoy a bottle with some light snacks. 2811 Stewartstown Road, 304.598.2019, wvwines.com

MORGANTOWN • FEB/MAR 2016

Forks of Cheat

CARLA WITT FORD

Terra Café

BEST SWEET INDULGENCE

The Cupcakerie

BEST PLACE TO CAFFEINATE

The Grind WV Our favorite is the Milky Joe—an Americano with a splash of cream and West Virginia maple syrup—but everything else is good, too. The Grind WV offers coffee, espresso, baked treats, and more from morning through afternoon. 168 Willey Street, 304.296.5297 facebook.com/thegrindwv

You don’t need a special occasion to enjoy a treat from The Cupcakerie. Cupcakes come in large and mini sizes in dozens of flavors. We always head for the seasonal options, but year-round favorites include Red Carpet Red Velvet, a red velvet cake topped with cream cheese frosting and sprinkled with dark chocolate, and A Hard Day’s Night, a French vanilla cake topped with chocolate buttercream and sprinkled with dark chocolate shavings. 194 Willey Street, 304.212.5464 thecupcakerie.com

BEST BRUNCH

KATIE GRIFFITH; CARLA WITT FORD; ELIZABETH ROTH

Iron Horse Tavern

Iron Horse Tavern opened in 2014, taking over the old Madeleine’s space on High Street. It was a tough space to fill—Madeleine’s was a long-time brunch destination—but fill it Iron Horse did. And with gusto. Since opening, the restaurant has been hailed for its classy take on down-to-earth pub food, and brunch is the real treat. Sunday mornings fill the wideopen dining space with the chatter of happy diners munching on fried chicken and Belgian waffles with bourbon-maple syrup, pulled pork pancakes, eggs every way, and more. You might want to call ahead to get a table. 140 High Street, 304.296.6230, ironhorsetvrn.com

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BEST PIZZA

Every year since we launched the Best of Morgantown contest, Pizza Al’s has been named Morgantown’s top choice for a slice of cheesy goodness. Headed by Albino Roperti, a native of Italy who immigrated to the United States more than 50 years ago, Pizza Al’s opened first as Pizzeria Italia on Beechurst Avenue in 1969. Today, after bouncing around town to follow his customers, briefly attempting to retire in 2002—Morgantown residents wouldn’t stand for it, and Albino reopened his store as Pizza Al’s on University Avenue in 2006— and finally opening a second location for hungry locals in Sabraton, Albino heads a veritable pizza empire. His 20-inch pies start at $11. 2952 University Avenue, 304.599.4040; 1407 Earl Core Road, 304.225.2222; pizzaals.com

CARLA WITT FORD

Pizza Al’s

BEST BURGER

tailpipes Since 2010 Tailpipes Gourmet Burgers and Shakes has kept Morgantown’s students and residents coming back each week for mouthwatering specials. Tailpipes is known for its elaborate burgers with all the fixings—and we mean all. Start with a beef, turkey, chicken, or grilled Portobello patty and then go wherever your hungry eyes take you. 417 High Street, 204.225.2535 tailpipesburgers.com

BEST SUSHI

Ogawa Japanese Restaurant Ogawa’s sushi specials are local legend. Try the famous lunch boxes and a vast sushi menu as well as a dinner menu boasting everything from udon to Korean hot pot. 2920 University Avenue 304.598.8338, ogawasushi.com

BEST POWER LUNCH & BEST VEGETARIAN-FRIENDLY

CARLA WITT FORD (2); KATIE GRIFFITH

Black Bear Burritos

Each year since the Best of Morgantown awards launched, Black Bear Burritos has taken top spots for best lunch and best vegetarian-friendly food. We won’t argue. Black Bear Burritos is the first place many folks go when they return to Morgantown after years or even just months away. It’s something about that perfect combination of a laid-back setting, live music, and great food. Check out page 34 for a behind-thescenes look at the staff who cook up those beloved plates of strollers, nachos, burritos, and more. 132 Pleasant Street, 304.296.8696; 3119 University Avenue, 304.777.4867; blackbearburritos.com

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BEST NEIGHBORHOOD BAR

Mario’s Fishbowl

Time and again the people have spoken, naming Mario’s Fishbowl—a decades-old Morgantown institution—the best of our many neighborhood bars. Students, locals, and passers-through enjoy everything from the wings to the frosty fishbowl goblets sloshing with beer. Mario’s opened in Woodburn in 1949 on Richwood Avenue as a confectionery and, in 2012, opened a second location in Suncrest. While the Richwood location has the better atmosphere, decorated with photos and notes from lifelong patrons and boasting that certain je ne sais quoi, patrons can find the same good food and service in Suncrest. 704 Richwood Avenue, 304.292.2511; 3117 University Avenue, 304.599.4309; mariosfishbowl.com

BEST BEER SELECTION

Morgantown Brewing Company

BEST INTERNATIONAL CUISINE

Chaang Thai With curries, stir fries, noodles, and more—not to mention a heat gradient ranging from mild to as-hot-as-you-can-possibly-takeit—Chaang Thai has been chosen for the second year in a row as Morgantown’s best in international cuisine. 361 High Street 304.241.5374, chaangthai.com 52

MORGANTOWN • FEB/MAR 2016

ELIZABETH ROTH; CARLA WITT FORD (2)

With two bars and a wide selection of favorite brews in cans and bottles, not to mention a house brewery that whips up a handful of staple and small-batch brews each week, Morgantown Brewing Company has plenty of frothy brews to keep you coming back. 1291 University Avenue, 304.292.6959, morgantownbrewing.com

BEST FINE DINING

CARLA WITT FORD

Stefano’s

Low lights, soft music, and attentive staff make this hole-in-the-wall establishment a romantically pleasant surprise. Located under the Suburban Lanes Bowling Center on Chestnut Ridge Road, it’s not much to look at from the outside. But the moment you step inside, it’s obvious why Stefano’s has been voted the top choice of Morgantown’s fine dining options year after year. Chairs are pulled as diners are seated, wine lists and chef’s specials are promptly presented, and the tinkling sound of laughter from nearby diners lulls you into a contented meal of fine Italian-American cuisine—like pan-seared Pacific halibut over a chilled potato and lobster salad or a New York strip steak marinated in a blend of fresh herbs, garlic, and olive oil. 735 Chestnut Ridge Road, 304.581.6930, stefanoswv.com

BEST BREWERY | BEST OUTDOOR DINING

Mountain State Brewing Company

It’s hard to beat the experience of sipping cold, freshly brewed ale in the heat of summer while sitting by the banks of the mighty Monongahela River. In Mountain State Brewing Company, Morgantown residents have found the perfect mix of great beer and great atmosphere. Regulars love the easy-to-drink Cold Trail Ale and the hoppy Seneca Indian Pale Ale, all brewed in Mountain State’s Thomas-based headquarters. When it’s too cold to enjoy those delicious brews from the twostory patio, head inside to huddle near the woodfired brick oven, where Mountain State employees are busy slinging some of the best wood-fired pizza in town. 54 Clay Street, 304.241.1976 mountainstatebrewing.com

BEST SPORTS BAR | BEST WINGS

The combination of sports bar and wings makes for a winning weekend for many a sports fan and, for the fourth year in a row, Kegler’s Sports Bar & Lounge has taken a top spot. Boasting more than 20 televisions, Kegler’s has become the go-to place to watch professional and NCAA sports—everything from basketball to hockey. Daily game schedules are posted online along with food specials like Monday Madness—an evening of 40¢ wings, $7 pitchers of domestic beer, and all the football you can ask for. 735 Chestnut Ridge Road, 304.598.9698, keglerssportsbar.com

MORGANTOWN • FEB/MAR 2016

CARLA WITT FORD

Kegler’s Sports Bar & Lounge

MORGANTOWN’S TASTEMAKERS ARE AS CHARISMATIC AS THEY ARE INFLUENTIAL.

BEST CHEF

Chris McDonald

CARLA WITT FORD

Hometown culinary artist and executive chef at Stefano’s, Chris McDonald counts himself lucky to have been taught early in his career by chef Drew Kiszka at the former Glasshouse Grille and later by other great mentors. “I made a choice for myself to stay away from corporate and do the familyowned, smaller restaurants,” he says. He’s been a force behind the success of Stefano’s (page 53) from its start in 2009. Chris finds time while cooking on the line with his staff of three to get out on the floor and talk with regulars. His love of seafood is reflected in the restaurant’s menu, and lately he’s experimenting with shapes and flavors of fresh pasta. His Morgantown wish list: a restaurant supply shop and a butcher. Look for his new Von Blaze pickles in four flavors at this year’s farmers’ market. 735 Chestnut Ridge Road, 304.581.6930, stefanoswv.com

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BEST BARTENDER

Grace Hutchens Given the rise of high-end bars with specialty cocktails, competition for Best Bartender gets tougher every year—yet Grace Hutchens, co-owner of Apothecary Ale House and Café, took the category for a second time. Grace serves up the right mix of knowledgeable service and laid-back attitude for the beer lovers who appreciate her extensive brew list. Hophead? Malt mouth? Tell Grace what you like: She may turn you on to a new West Virginia brew from the bar’s 140 bottles and 12 actively rotating taps, but she’s just as likely to pour you a short-lived specialty from far away. 227 Chestnut Street 304.291.2291, facebook.com/ ApothecaryAleHouseCafe

BEST MEDIA PERSONALITY

Tony Caridi

BEST ARTIST

David Merrill BEST POLITICIAN

Barbara Fleischauer

Now in her ninth term in the West Virginia Legislature, Monongalia County Delegate Barbara Evans Fleischauer has logged accomplishments for women, veterans, children, families, the environment, and small business. She’s an energetic sponsor and cosponsor of many bills and currently serves as minority chair of Health and Human Resources. friendsofbarbara.com 56

MORGANTOWN • FEB/MAR 2016

As the artist behind symbolic representations of past governors, state landmarks, and iconic figures like the Mountaineer, David Merrill is beloved statewide. His work captures both the beauty and the harsh reality of Appalachian life—from coal miners emerging into the light to Civil War soldiers reading letters from home—in mediums including oil, acrylic, and watercolor. His pieces are owned by politicians and celebrities alike. Lately, he says, he’s focused on commissioned portraits, but we can expect more public pieces in the future. 304.276.1608 davidmerrillstudios.com

ELIZABETH ROTH; PERRY BENNET, WV LEGISLATIVE PHOTOGRAPHY

As longtime WVU play-by-play announcer for Mountaineer Sports Network, Tony Caridi sounds like family even to non-sports lovers across the state. His weekday evening MetroNews Sportsline is a staple for the commute home or dinnertime radio. Tony is a three-time West Virginia Sportscaster of the Year winner and has broadcast nationally on ESPN and Westwood Radio and regionally for the Big East and Atlantic Ten television networks. Check out Tony’s popular Twitter feed at @TonyCaridi.

YOUR TOP SPOTS TO UNWIND, FROM YOGA TO DANCE TO GALAS AND MORE!

BEST FESTIVAL

Wine & Jazz Festival Far from snooty, the West Virginia Wine & Jazz Festival has something for everyone—its domination of BOM’s Best Festival category for five years straight is proof. Locals enjoy two September afternoons each year browsing the work of local artisans, sampling favorite Morgantown fare, sipping West Virginia wine, and listening to cool jazz on the lawn at Camp Muffly. One reason for the festival’s enduring popularity: It has returned nearly $400,000 over 20 years to causes like WVU music scholarships and Guitars for Vets. Cheers! wvwineandjazz.com

BEST DANCE STUDIO

GRETCHEN MOORE; ELIZABETH ROTH

Morgantown Dance Tap, folk, contemporary, and especially ballet—young Morgantownarea residents have grown up with lessons in a wide variety of dance styles for the past quarter century thanks to Morgantown Dance Studio’s work in dance education and performance. The studio claims a hand in the training of a number of accomplished dancers, including Christina Ghiardi, on faculty with the Boston Ballet School, and Jordan Schwinabart, now apprentice with the Alabama Ballet. Catch Morgantown Dance and the Morgantown Ballet Company performances of Peter Pan at the Metropolitan Theatre in May. 5000 Greenbag Road, 304.292.3266, morgantowndance.org

BEST THEATER

Creative Arts Center

One of Morgantown’s most iconic structures, WVU’s Creative Arts Center offers the grand 1,450-seat Lyell B. Clay Concert Theatre plus four smaller venues. Patrons enjoy everything from major dramatic productions to Mountain Stage radio show performances to university and community recitals. One Fine Arts Drive ccarts.wvu.edu/creative_arts_center

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BEST BAND

Davisson Brothers Band

Take our advice: See Davisson Brothers Band—soon. The rousing country-bluegrass-southern rock mix put out by Harrison County’s Chris and Donnie Davisson with cousin Sammy Davisson and longtime friend Aaron Regester has ignited since they first took BOM Best Band in 2015. Schmitt’s Saloon is home base but, with gigs nationwide, the single “Jesse James” released on iTunes in 2015, and RED Distribution queuing up a second album for 2016, DBB may soon be the boys we knew back when. davissonbrothersband.com

BEST MUSIC VENUE

Schmitt’s Saloon

This partnership between former Mountaineer fullback and retired NFL player Owen Schmitt and native sons the Davisson Brothers Band quickly became a Morgantown classic when it opened in 2013. Enjoy bands across genres several nights a week with an amped-up pub menu and a respectable beer list. 245 Cheat Road, 304.291.9001, schmittssaloon.com

BEST RADIO STATION

WVAQ

BEST RUN/WALK

Morgantown Marathon

More than 1,100 racers from more than 30 states participated in the first Morgantown Marathon Weekend in September 2015. Saturday’s Inaugural Mile and Mountain Mama 8K built excitement for Sunday’s Thirteener half-marathon and Tour Morgantown full marathon. Runners reported the “26.2 Almost Heavenly Miles” through Morgantown’s seven hilly wards to be a fun challenge. Organizer and Marine veteran Jamie Summerlin of cross-USA Freedom Run fame did it up right: An official Morgantown Marathon time qualifies for the Boston Marathon, and race proceeds go to hometown veteran support group Operation Welcome Home. The second annual marathon weekend takes place September 17-18, 2016. morgantownmarathon.com 58

MORGANTOWN • FEB/MAR 2016

BEST GYM/FITNESS FACILITY

Pro PerformanceRX

Now with three locations offering everything from CrossFit and an indoor FieldTurf arena to batting cages, aquatic therapy, and an Explosion Room, Pro PerformanceRX has the equipment to take you to any fitness level—and the trainers to motivate you. One membership includes all three locations, with a fourth coming in 2016. properformancerx.com

CARLA WITT FORD; COURTESY OF MORGANTOWN MARATHON; COURTESY OF PRO PERFORMANCE RX

Voted best radio station year after year, 101.9 FM serves up pop and rock favorites and some of the best talk radio around. Named Contemporary Hit Radio Station of the Year by the West Virginia Broadcasters Association every year for more than a decade, the station has also won multiple Marconi awards from the National Association of Broadcasters. Be sure to catch Kevin Connoley’s award-winning morning show, 6 to 10 a.m. weekdays. wvaq.com

BEST TATTOO SHOP

CARLA WITT FORD

Patty’s Art Spot Tattoo and Piercing Studio

If you’ve ever doubted the artistic cred of your tattoo artist, Patty’s Art Spot puts that to rest. The artists on Patty’s website offer personal portfolios of sketches, framed art, and tattoos—hundreds of tattoos. The walls of the comfortable, stylish shops double as gallery space, with exhibits from local artists changing monthly. Owner Patty Colebank thinks of tattoos as “low-end luxury.” Locations in Star City and downtown Morgantown. pattysartspot.org

BEST MUSEUM / GALLERY

Art Museum of West Virginia University

BEST YOGA STUDIO

BlissBlissBliss

Open in a brand new space since August 2015, the Art Museum of West Virginia University quickly stole our readers’ eyes and hearts. Two galleries totaling 5,400 square feet display pieces from WVU’s permanent collection—including paintings, prints, sculpture, ceramics, and folk art—as well as traveling exhibits from museums nationwide. University classes, school tours, public lectures, and informal “Lunchtime Looks” discussions engage visitors of all backgrounds. The inaugural exhibition, Visual Conversations: Looking and Listening, features work from the permanent collection juxtaposed in thoughtprovoking ways. A gift shop and sculpture garden are in the planning. Two Fine Arts Drive, 304.293.2141, artmuseum.wvu.edu

Since 2008, BlissBlissBliss has encouraged a healthy union of mind, body, and spirit in support of its clients’ well-being. The studio’s professionals offer yoga classes ranging from beginner’s and prenatal to power yoga and Vinyasa flow, as well as massage therapy, body work, energy work, acupuncture, and wellness workshops. Enjoy workshops, yoga classes, massages, and other services in BlissBlissBliss’s restful space as needed, or purchase a $10 annual membership for discount packages and access to additional services. 3101 About Town Place, 304.413.0270 theblissblissbliss.com

BEST FUNDRAISING EVENT

The WVU Children’s Hospital Gala is Morgantown’s formal, fun, feel-good event of the year, every year. The gala raises money for patient services, specialized equipment, and family care and support programs, benefiting families throughout the state and from Maryland, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. The 13th annual gala, “Under the Big Top,” takes place February 13, 2016 at the Morgantown Event Center with a cocktail reception, spirited auctions, gourmet dining, live music, and dancing. wvuchgala.com 60

MORGANTOWN • FEB/MAR 2016

BEST GOLF COURSE

Lakeview Golf Resort & Spa Golf in the footsteps of Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, and Sam Snead at Lakeview’s two championship courses on Cheat Lake. The Mountainview Course has been rated 3½ stars by Golf Digest, while the Lakeview Course is rated four stars. Check out the spa afterward, or book a well-appointed room and stay the night. One Lakeview Drive, 304.594.2011, lakeviewwvgolf.com

CARLA WITT FORD (2); NIKKI BOWMAN

WVU Children’s Hospital Gala

THESE RETAILERS OFFER THE GREAT SELECTION AND SERVICE WE LOVE.

BEST JEWELRY STORE

Jacqueline’s Fine Jewelry

Jacqueline’s sells diamonds and gems to suit all tastes and consistently brings new lines of fine jewelry to Morgantown. The store was known as Joyce’s for several years before it was renamed in 2015 after Jacqueline Williams, the owner’s great-aunt and godmother. The family-owned business still provides the same unique designs and custom manufacturing it’s always been known for as well as Pandora and Alex & Ani bracelets and designer watches for men and women. 1070 Suncrest Towne Centre Drive, 304.599.6981 jacquelinesfinejewelry.com

BEST BOOKSTORE

Barnes & Noble

Rows upon rows of books, made-to-order coffee, and helpful employees who can find exactly what you’re looking for—all of this has helped name Barnes & Noble Morgantown’s favorite bookstore five years in a row. Barnes & Noble at University Town Centre in Granville has books of all genres for all ages as well as a large children’s area equipped with toys and games to keep kids busy while you sip your latte and search for your next favorite book. 2814 University Town Centre Drive, 304.599.1294 barnesandnoble.com

BEST SHOPPING CENTER

CARLA WITT FORD; KATIE GRIFFITH

University Town Centre

This shopping center has attracted a variety of retail opportunity to Morgantown since it was built in 2005 in Granville, including Best Buy, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Bed Bath & Beyond. With Walmart and Target conveniently located in the same strip of stores as TJ MAXX, rue 21, and Mountaineer Zone, you can get all of your shopping done in one trip—plus take in a ballgame or movie. University Town Centre Drive, Granville

BEST PET STORE

Exotic Jungle Pet Superstore

The Exotic Jungle offers products for your fish, rabbits, cats, dogs, and more. The knowledgeable staff can help you adopt new pets and give you advice on the best food, bath soap, toys, and habitats for your animals. 1716 Mileground Road, 304.296.8552

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BEST PLACE TO BUY SHOES

The Shoe Story BEST RECREATION STORE

Pathfinder

Since 1999 The Shoe Story has offered shoes for everyone in the family. The store offers a wide selection of women’s fashion boots as well as running shoes, Disney-inspired kids shoes, and sandals. Choose from brands like Birkenstock, Stride Rite, UGG, Sperry, Teva, Saucony, and Merrell at the store located in Suburban Lane Plaza. 751 Chestnut Ridge Road, 304.599.7443

Any Morgantown adventurer knows Pathfinder is the place to find backpacks, bikes, skis, snowboards, kayaks, sleeping bags, and outdoorsy clothes to keep warm and look good while trying out new gear. Pathfinder sells popular brands such as Patagonia, The North Face, Columbia, and Mountain Hardwear. 235 High Street, 304.296.0076, pathfinderwv.com

BEST PLACE TO BUY WOMEN’S APPAREL

TJ MAXX

What’s better than finding all the brands you love on sale in the same place? TJ MAXX at the University Town Centre offers rack upon rack of discounted dresses, suits, jeans, and casual wear as well as home décor, gifts, and more. 4041 University Town Centre Drive, 304.599.1261, tjmaxx.tjx.com

Kroger

The friendly staff at Kroger makes for an easy and pleasant weekly shopping excursion, and loyal customers keep coming back. Having a Kroger rewards card gets you the best prices on fresh produce, deli meats, seafood, and bakery goods as well as the convenience of refilling prescriptions online and picking them up at the store pharmacy. 500 Suncrest Towne Centre Drive, 304.285.6780 350 Patteson Drive, 304.599.5324; 1851 Earl L. Core Road 304.296.7146; kroger.com 62

MORGANTOWN • FEB/MAR 2016

BEST PLACE TO BUY HEALTH FOOD

Mountain People’s Co-op Natural, organic, local—Mountain People’s Co-op offers food that is more than just healthy. The recently expanded grocery store sells bulk and fair-trade goods as well as gluten-free and allergen-free options. 131 Pleasant Street, 304.291.6131 mountainpeoplescoop.com

CARLA WITT FORD

BEST GROCERY STORE

BEST PLACE TO BUY A WEDDING DRESS

Coni & Franc

For more than 30 years, Coni & Franc has showered brides, their mothers, and bridesmaids with personal attention during full-service appointments and dress fittings. Bridesto-be can say yes to elegant collections of designer brands like Pronovias, Jasmine Bridal, David Tutera, and Sophia Tolli. Leave plenty of time in your appointment to pick out a veil and jewelry at the same showroom. 422 High Street 304.296.9466, coniandfranc.net

BEST PLACE TO BUY MEN’S APPAREL

Daniel’s of Morgantown

BEST GIFT SHOP

The Elegant Alley Cat

Find everything from sorority letter jewelry to handbags and totes to West Virginia décor and chic Papyrus cards at The Elegant Alley Cat. Make sure to give yourself plenty of time to visit the gift shop; the endless variety of boho headbands, spa accessories, and Alex & Ani bracelets will keep you browsing for hours. 358 High Street, 304.292.4433, elegantalleycat.com

Whether you’re looking for your first suit, a wedding tux, or a new WVU-patterned bow tie, the experienced staff at Daniel’s can help you find the perfect fit. Daniel’s is known for providing custom formalwear to WVU athletes and coaches as well as for tailoring suits within a week or even 24 hours of an event for gentlemen on the go. 2908 University Avenue 304.296.7202, danielsofmorgantown.com

BEST FURNITURE STORE

Chuck’s Furniture

CARLA WITT FORD

Nearly 50 years and a 100,000-square-foot expansion after opening as a small showroom in 1967, Chuck’s Furniture has become a multi-floor showroom and warehouse offering high-quality home furnishings. The family-owned store sells living room, bedroom, dining room, and office furniture as well as dozens of mattresses, media consoles, and unique furniture collections for all price ranges. Chuck’s offers customizable flower arrangements in the showroom and custom window treatments with shutters, blinds, and shades to match draperies and valances. 77 Lawless Road, 304.292.7621, chucksfurniture.com

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BEST CLOTHING CONSIGNMENT STORE & BEST PLACE TO BUY KIDS’ APPAREL

Cool Kids Consignment

From baby products to designer handbags, Cool Kids Consignment offers a wide range of discounted apparel and accessories. Find Mountaineer spirit wear, winter coats, summer sandals, and nursery items, all 50 to 90 percent off retail prices. Cool Kids also offers highend denim, pageant gowns, formal suits, and upscale shoes for women in the Classy Closet, in addition to clothes and shoes for infants and preteens. The consignment store partners with local charities to donate unsold items to families in need of clothing. 1706 Mileground Road Suite A, 304.292.7467, coolkidsconsignment.com

Unique Consignment

The distinct piece of furniture that would fit perfectly in the room you just redecorated is probably sitting in the showroom at Unique Consignment. View an array of refurbished and custom-painted pieces like kitchen islands, buffet tables, night stands, wine bottle holders, bar stools, and more. 3438 University Avenue, 304.598.5656, facebook.com/uniqueconsignment3506

MORGANTOWN • FEB/MAR 2016

ELIZABETH ROTH; CARLA WITT FORD

BEST VINTAGE FURNITURE

WHATEVER YOUR NEEDS, THESE BUSINESSES ARE HERE TO SERVE.

BEST CAR DEALERSHIP

John Howard Motors Voters agree: John Howard Motors is the place to go for the best selection of Subaru and Nissan models around. The friendly staff at John Howard are sure to be able to find the car for you, especially with two lots brimming with new and pre-owned vehicles. 1730 Mileground Road, 304.292.0171, johnhowardmotors.com

BEST CONTRACTOR

March-Westin Company

March-Westin has offices in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Virginia, but its headquarters are in Morgantown. The company was founded in 1984 and in the years since opening it has completed more than 2,000 projects. Clients include WVU, Mylan Pharmaceuticals, and the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston. 360 Frontier Street, 305.599.4880 marchwestin.com

BEST ARCHITECT

Dolores John BEST VETERINARIAN

KATIE GRIFFITH

Paw Prints Veterinary Clinic Paw Prints has just about anything Fido could need. The clinic is open Monday through Friday for routine and preventive care and takes same-day and emergency cases six days a week. It also has advanced surgical equipment on hand, so you can rest assured your pet is in good hands, even during a complicated surgery. The clinic is staffed by professionals who love animals as much as you do. Paw Prints was founded more than 30 years ago by a husband-wife veterinary team and has been caring for the pets of Morgantown ever since. 1745 Mileground Road, 304.296.7387, pawprintswv.com

Dolores John graduated from WVU with a degree in interior design, got her masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree in architecture in Washington, D.C., then practiced in New York City for 20 years before returning to Morgantown to start a private practice. Best of Morgantown voters love Dolores for her savvy residential and small commercial design. djohnarchitect.com

BEST LANDSCAPER

Biafore Landscape Development

The team at Biafore Landscape Development includes landscape architects, designers, and horticulturists. They work together on every project to balance the demands of the natural environment with the clientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wants and needs. The result is outdoor spaces where clients feel as much at home as they do inside. 522 Ashebrooke Square 304.594.3006, biafore.com

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BEST BANK

Clear Mountain Bank

Clear Mountain is a full-service bank, offering personal and business banking services as well as investment services. The company was founded in 1903 and has branches throughout the region. 496 High Street, 304.285.5634, clearmountainbank.com

BEST HOME INSPECTOR

Mountaineer Inspection Services From radon to mold to structural issues, you can rest assured that, if your home has a problem, Mountaineer Inspection Services will find it. The company offers a wide variety of inspection services, and staff are always up-to-date on the latest technology and trends in the industry. They’ll even inspect your home using infrared thermal imaging and tell you how well your house’s seals and insulation are working. mountaineerinspection.com

BEST REALTOR

J.S. Walker Associates At J.S. Walker, agents are committed to efficiency, professionalism, and attention to detail. The team at J.S. Walker knows that the variables in a real estate transactions are constantly in flux—buyer, seller, property, financing—but that the real estate agent is there to guide you through the storm. J.S. Walker Realtors assist in everything from personal to commercial realty. 148 Fayette Street 304.296.0074, jswalker.com

BEST HAIR SALON

Nico Spalon

Morgantown loves this salon, located in a refurbished house in the Cheat Lake neighborhood, for its attention to detail, focus on professionalism, and beautiful results. Services include haircuts, color, blowouts, and extensions as well as makeup, waxing, and more. 80 South Pierpont Road, 304.594.1550, nicospalon.com

MORGANTOWN • FEB/MAR 2016

BEST CHARITY/NONPROFIT

Christian Help

Christian Help has been serving the Morgantown community for more than 40 years. The interdenominational nonprofit runs a food pantry, a store for clothing and housewares, and a career closet. It also offers job training and emergency financial assistance. 219 Walnut Street 304.296.0221, christianhelp.wix.com

BEST FLORIST

Zaccagnini’s Suncrest Florist

This family-owned florist has created floral arrangements for all of Morgantown’s needs for the last quarter century. Zaccagnini’s staff pride themselves in their quick and friendly service as well as their wide variety of flowers and artistic arrangements. 735 Chestnut Ridge Road, 304.599.2996 zaccagninis.com

MORGA

AG.COM

BEST DRY CLEANERS

Massullo’s Cleaners and Tailors

Massullo’s is a Morgantown institution. The High Street location, with its old-school logo and tidy storefront, has been cleaning and tailoring the clothes of Morgantown residents since 1961. And the business now offers the same timely, quality service in a second location at Suncrest Towne Centre. 447 High Street, 304.296.5210; 1068 Suncrest Towne Centre Drive, 304.225.5210

BEST DEVELOPER

Glenmark Holding

Glenmark Holding is responsible for some of the most significant development projects in Morgantown—think the old Wharf District and the Glenmark Center—and over the last two decades the company has helped shape Morgantown into the city we know today. Founded by Morgantown natives, Glenmark is especially dedicated to responsible development that benefits the community. 6 Canyon Road, Suite 300, 304.599.0111, glenmarkholding.com

BEST MECHANIC

Shorty Anderson’s Auto Service

In a business where reputation is king, Shorty Anderson’s comes out on top. This garage is known for its fair pricing, quality repair work, and friendly service. Customers agree that taking your car to Shorty’s is like taking it to your favorite uncle who happens to be really good with cars. If they can’t help you, they’ll point you to a mechanic who can. The shop can have a waiting list—so call ahead if possible. 908 Stewart Street, 304.599.4419

BEST PERSONAL TRAINER

Calvin Moore

Calvin Moore is certified as a fitness trainer by the American Council on Exercise and is a personal trainer at Viking Performance Training, which specializes in strength and fitness conditioning. He’s the guy to call if you need someone to whip you into shape. 139 Greenbag Road, 304.216.7496

BEST HOTEL

Waterfront Place Hotel & Conference Center

The Waterfront Place Hotel & Conference Center is just down the road from all the excitement of downtown Morgantown, but once you check in you might find you never want to leave. The Waterfront has it all: prime views overlooking the Monongahela River, lush accommodations, an indoor pool, a hydrotherapy pool, and a fitness center and spa, plus excellent food and drink options at the Regatta Bar & Grille and The Rat Pack Lounge. The event center offers more than 30,000 square feet of meeting, convention, and entertainment space. It’s no surprise this hotel has been awarded the prestigious AAA Four Diamond Award. It is joining The Marriott family in 2016. Two Waterfront Place 304.296.1700, waterfrontplacehotel.com

MORGANTOWN • FEB/MAR 2016

BEST DAY SPA |BEST MANI/PEDI | BEST MASSAGE

Spa Roma

Spa Roma has been voted one of Morgantown’s best for three years and is so beloved that its legions of fans weren’t content with just one title this year—Spa Roma won awards in three separate categories. It’s the place to go for body and soul. Make a visit to one of its luxurious spaces for a stone therapy massage followed by a spa manicure and heat therapy pedicure, and you’ll walk away with a new lease on life. Even with two locations, Spa Roma is often busy—so book early. 170 Lakeview Drive, Suite 1, 304.594.9782; 1054 Suncrest Towne Centre Drive, 304.241.4057; sparoma.com

EVERYTHING FROM SPORTS TO CLASS TO HOUSING—THESE ARE MORGANTOWN’S WVU FAVORITES.

BEST OFF-CAMPUS HOUSING

The Domain At Town Centre

Located behind the University Town Centre in Granville, The Domain offers almost everything WVU students could want: furnished apartments, private bathrooms, walk-in closets, shuttles to campus, game rooms, fitness facilities, pools, and more. Floor plans for one- to four-bedroom apartments are available with rent starting at $560 per student. 5000 Domain Drive, 304.598.0700, domainmorgantown.com

BEST MOUNTAINEER GEAR

The Book Exchange With two locations in Morgantown—one downtown and one on Patteson Drive—The Book Exchange is one of the most convenient stops in town to pick up your Mountaineer gear, be it game day or just another weekend. The store offers infants’, kids’, men’s, and women’s clothing as well as gifts and collectibles. 342 Patteson Drive, 304.598.2225; 152 Willey Street, 304.292.7354 bookexchangewv.com

BEST SPORTS VENUE | BEST TAILGATE BEST COACH

KATIE GRIFFITH

Nikki Izzo-Brown

2015 marked Nikki Izzo-Brown’s 20th anniversary as head coach of the WVU women’s soccer team. She spent the year in style, watching from stadium seats as two of her young Mountaineers played for Canada in the FIFA Women’s World Cup and coaching her team through a high-energy season: WVU claimed 19 wins, another Big 12 Conference regular-season title, its 16th straight appearance in the NCAA Tournament, and a long-awaited return to the Elite Eight competition, where No. 2-seeded WVU fell to topseeded Pennsylvania State University. WVU’s first and only women’s soccer coach certainly has built a team to be proud of.

Mountaineer Field at Milan Puskar Stadium

A fall weekend in Morgantown will find most of the city in one place: Milan Puskar Stadium, cheering on the Mountaineers. Built in 1980 with a current capacity of 60,000, the stadium’s double-deck structure offers unobstructed views of the field. Plenty of video and sound equipment, lighting, concessions, and souvenir stands add to fan enjoyment inside the stadium, while tailgating at the Blue lot outside keeps Mountaineers happy before and after the game. 1 Ira Errett Rodgers Drive MORGANTOWNMAG.COM

BEST DORM

Honors Hall

Built at a cost of $21 million, Honors Hall opened in 2009 on Second Street near WVU’s downtown campus. The dorm boasts five floors of student suites, studies, and lounges as well as administrative offices. One of WVU’s newest dorms, Honors Hall replaces Stalnaker Hall as home of the WVU Honors College and houses more than 350 students. 250 Second Street

BEST FEMALE STUDENT ATHLETE

Kadeisha Buchanan BEST DEAN

Greg Bowman

A 2016 Hermann Trophy finalist, a three-time NSCAA All-American, two-time first team honoree, and 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup Best Young Player, Kadeisha Buchanan has earned honor after honor since she started at WVU three years ago. The junior defender is a native of Brampton, Ontario.

BEST MALE STUDENT ATHLETE

Daniel Brewster Karl Joseph BEST PROFESSOR

In his 12 years teaching sociology at WVU, Daniel Brewster has earned a reputation as an approachable professor. “I hate standing in front of a group of people and talking,” he says. “My classes have a lot of interaction. I consider my students partners in the class— without their investment, my investment is pointless.” 70

MORGANTOWN • FEB/MAR 2016

He led the Mountaineers for three seasons before a knee injury sustained during practice took him out before his senior season could start. Despite a college season cut short, Karl Joseph is widely recognized as a Mountaineer great. The Florida native started every game of his career, logging 3,388 plays and 284 tackles.

COURTESY OF GREG BOWMAN; COURTESY OF WVU ATHLETIC COMMUNICATIONS

Greg Bowman became dean of the WVU College of Law in May 2015 and has quickly earned a name for himself as an enthusiastic leader and professor. He joined the WVU law faculty in 2009 and in 2010-11 was named Professor of the Year. In 2014 he won the WVU Foundation Award for Outstanding Teaching.

WHEN IT IS TIME TO SEE A DOCTOR, MORGANTOWN HAS ITS FAVORITE CHOICES.

BEST DENTIST/ORTHODONTIST

Morgantown Dental

COURTESY OF MORGANTOWN DENTAL

Morgantown Dental opened in 1927 and was one of the first general dentistry operations in the city. Patients keep coming back to the practice generation after generation because of the staff’s commitment to quality dental work. There’s also something to be said for friendly, familiar faces—many employees, from dentists to dental hygienists to receptionists, have worked their entire careers at Morgantown Dental. 142 High Street, 304.292.7307, morgantowndentalgroup.com

MORGANTOWNMAG.COM

BEST PHYSICAL THERAPIST

HealthWorks Rehab & Fitness

Athletes aren’t the only ones who can be sidelined by injuries. That’s why, when something goes wrong, the folks at HealthWorks are committed to getting your body back in working order. The clinic—which has six locations, including two in Morgantown—offers comprehensive physical therapy, occupational therapy, and fitness programs to treat musculoskeletal injuries and disease. Patients appreciate the knowledgeable staff and the comfortable environment. 943 Maple Drive, 304.599.2515; 170 Lakeview Drive #2, 304.594.1545 healthworksrf.com

BEST OB-GYN

Cynthia Walsh

BEST GENERAL PRACTITIONER

Anthony Marcucci

Anthony Marcucci is a physician with deep roots in the Morgantown community. He went to medical school at WVU, stayed for his residency at the school’s Department of Family Medicine, and now practices at Wedgewood Family Practice and lives in Morgantown with his wife and three children. This retired Marine Corps captain also coaches Little League and soccer and is a team physician for University High School. As dedicated as Anthony is to his community, his patients know he’s even more dedicated to them. 900 Fairmont Road, 304.292.7316, wedgewood-fp.com

MORGANTOWN • FEB/MAR 2016

BEST PEDIATRICIAN

Taylor Troischt

After more than a decade practicing in Morgantown, Taylor Troischt has developed a reputation as a pediatrician committed to his patients and one who’s passionate about his job. Going to his practice is almost like getting two pediatricians for the price of one—his wife Megan Troischt works in the office, too, and the two often work together to serve patients. 608 Cheat Road, 304.594.1313

BEST DERMATOLOGIST

Mountain State Dermatology

No matter the skin condition—simple blemish to more serious disorder—Mountain State Dermatology has you covered. The practice opened in 1994 as Dr. C. Bradley Franz’s solo practice with offices in Clarksburg and Elkins. As business grew, he brought on more doctors and eventually expanded to nine locations in West Virginia and Pennsylvania, five of which offer dermatology services. 165 Scott Avenue, 304.554.0400 msmswv.com

COURTESY OF CYNTHIA WALSH; COURTESY OF ANTHONY MARCUCCI; COURTESY OF TAYLOR TROISCHT

When it was time to open her private practice, Cynthia Walsh knew she wanted to practice in Morgantown, where she grew up. Now, 15 years later, the OB-GYN is still caring for Morgantown women in all stages of life. Pineview Gynecology combines up-to-date medical practices with an office filled with comfortable, feminine décor that makes patients feel right at home. 1322 Pineview Drive, 304.599.8790 pineviewgyn.com

ROAD RAGE

projects in the LRTP was a better way to get drivers to and from I-79, and the solution proposed was one of three possible bridges. The I-79 Access Study considers those three bridges, proposed to connect at either 8th Street, Patteson Drive, or West Run Road, although MMMPO Executive Director Bill Austin says the Patteson Drive connection is very unlikely because of concerns about damage to the Core Arboretum. The study also acknowledges the magnitude of the problem and its potential solutions by re-opening the question to other ideas that have emerged since the LRTP came out. “We’re looking at not only those corridors identified in the longrange plan, but new corridors that might be appropriate,” Bill says. Those include a southern alternative that would increase capacity related to Interstate 68 as well as a no-hugebuild option that would address congestion through intersection and signal improvements and greater focus on non-auto alternatives like biking, walking, and mass transit. Given a bridge’s $50-plus million price tag, there is some appeal to opponents’ arguments that pavement makes people drive more and that the only way to reduce vehicle traffic is to increase access to alternatives. The MMMPO held a public meeting in December 2015 and accepted comments through January 5. The results of all that will be revealed at a public meeting in April. If the solution turns out to be a bridge, the soonest we’d have one completed is the mid-2020s, Bill says, but probably closer to 2040—almost a century after the last new bridge. He urges residents to stay engaged. “Come at it with an open mind and participate to help us address our transportation needs.” i79accessstudywv.com

To Bridge or Not to Bridge

What will getting around Morgantown look like in a decade? The topic is under discussion now.

new bridge—a major new bridge across a 500-footwide river—almost never happens. The bridge at Pleasant Street was first built in the 1850s. The Star City bridge didn’t come until a century later, in 1950. Are we due for a third? Doing nothing about our road congestion is not an option. The delays, waste, and frustration will only worsen if population increases as projected, with another 40,000 people expected in greater Morgantown by 2040. This is an issue of livability and, ultimately, economic growth. Right now, the Morgantown Monongalia Metropolitan Planning Organization is conducting an Interstate 79 Access Study. The study follows the organization’s 2040 Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) that was adopted in 2013 after much public engagement. Among the highest priority

MORGANTOWN • FEB/MAR 2016

written by PAM KASEY

Drive Locally, Pay LOCALly

A bill to let counties raise money for transportation, Round 2.

f 46 projects in the MMMPO’s 2040 Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP), only 14 can be paid for through known funding streams. That leaves out great things like PRT extensions and better cyclist and pedestrian paths. In 2015, Monongalia County Senator Bob Beach and cosponsors proposed a solution: Letting Our Counties Act Locally through the LOCAL Act. The bill failed, but Bob is trying again in the 2016 legislative session going on now. The LOCAL Act would allow counties to implement a 1 percent sales tax for transportation projects. In Mon County that could draw $80 million over 10 years and, with state and federal matching funds, perhaps $400 million—adding to the $136 million the 14 top priorities will cost and covering most LRTP projects. The 2015 bill failed because current legislative leadership doesn’t want new taxes, Bob said last year, and also because, while the proposal would allow county commissions to act autonomously, lawmakers preferred voter referenda. “I understand the House plans to make significant changes—one of those being a voter referendum,” he says of the bill’s chances in 2016.

written by PAM KASEY

Your local guide to life, art, culture, & more FEB/MAR 2016

February FEBRUARY 4–6 Dance Now! Lyell B. Clay Concert Theatre, WVU Creative Arts Center, Thurs. & Fri., 7:30 p.m., Sat. 2 p.m., 304.293.SHOW, theatre.wvu.edu WVU dance students perform various selfchoreographed dances created with faculty members and guest artists for this annual performance. Dance Now! Day is on Saturday, when 4-H participants have the chance to visit the new art museum and learn about the dance program at WVU.

WVU Men’s Basketball vs. Baylor WVU Coliseum, 3450 Monongahela Boulevard Sat., 8 p.m., 304.293.4340, wvugame.com Stripe the stadium as the Mountaineers play the nationally ranked Baylor University Bears. Wear gold or blue depending on where you sit in the Coliseum. $27–32 FEBRUARY 7 WVU Wrestling vs. Pitt WVU Coliseum, 3450 Monongahela Boulevard Sun., 1 p.m., 304.293.4340, wvugame.com Cheer on the Mountaineers in a Backyard Brawl at the Coliseum. Parade of Pearls Euro-Suites Hotel, 501 Chestnut Ridge Road Sun., 2 p.m., 304.598.1000, ebmon.org See all the latest pearl trends and colors in necklaces, earrings, and bracelets while you enjoy refreshments and door prizes. This second annual pearl event supports Empty Bowls Monongalia. $5 FEBRUARY 8 The Ultimate Oscars Lyell B. Clay Concert Theatre, WVU Creative Arts Center, Mon., 7:30 p.m., 412.392.4900 pittsburghsymphony.org The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra makes its first visit to Morgantown in 2016 with a performance of famous Oscar-winning film scores, including works by John Williams and John Barry. $27–45

COURTESY OF WVU ATHLETIC COMMUNICATIONS

FEBRUARY 6

FEBRUARY 20 The nationally ranked WVU Rifle team will compete to qualify for the NCAA Championships. The Mountaineers have won 17 national championships and have sent 30 shooters to the Olympics. WVU Rifle Range, Monongahela Boulevard, Sat., 8 a.m., 304.293.4340, wvusports.com

game against the Lady Mountaineers. Tickets are $1 courtesy of United Bank. MAComedy Night: Krish Mohan Monongalia Arts Center, 107 High Street, Wed. 7:30 p.m., 304.292.3325, monartscenter.com The stand-up comedian who made last year’s MAComedy Night audience erupt with laughter is back again. Krish Mohan’s humor, charm, intelligence, and quirkiness accompany Pittsburgh area comedians Garrett Titlebaum and Amanda Averell. FEBRUARY 11

FEBRUARY 10 WVU Women’s Basketball vs. Iowa State WVU Coliseum, 3450 Monongahela Boulevard Wed., 7 p.m., 304.293.4340, wvugame.com The Iowa State Cyclones come to town for a big

Show Us Your Bits! M.T. Pockets Theatre, 1390½ University Avenue, Thurs., 7 p.m., 304.284.0049 mtpocketstheatre.com Try out that new instrument, dance, monologue, or

comedic sketch with an audience of fellow community artists. Acts of all genres are welcome. $3 FEBRUARY 13 Valentine’s Day Escape Lakeview Resort, One Lakeview Drive, Sat. 304.594.1111, lakeviewresort.com Make Valentine’s Day classy with an intimate dinner, romantic music, and fun dancing at the Lakeview Resort. Room packages available. $99 per couple and up 37th Annual Invitational High School Honor Bands Concert Lyell B. Clay Concert Theatre, WVU Creative Arts Center, Sat., 3:30 p.m., 304.293.4381 cal.wvu.edu WVU Director of Bands John Hendricks and Associate Director Dearl J. Drury host more than 350 high school student musicians from MORGANTOWNMAG.COM

FEBRUARY 27 The 12th annual

Morgantown Polar Plunge

has participants jumping into the frigid Monongahela River in entertaining costumes to benefit Special Olympics West Virginia. Registration begins at noon. Participants must raise at least $50 in pledges.

ELIZABETH ROTH

Star City Park and Marina Sat., 2 p.m., 304.345.9310 sowv.org/polar-plunge

across West Virginia and surrounding states for a large concert that is open to the public. Free WVU Children’s Hospital Gala Morgantown Event Center, Three Waterfront Place, Sat., wvuchgala.com The gala raises money for patient services, equipment, and family care and support programs. Attendees enjoy cocktails, gourmet dining, auctions, live music, and more. $100 FEBRUARY 15 Once Lyell B. Clay Concert Theatre, WVU Creative Arts Center, Mon., 7:30 p.m., 304.293.SHOW events.wvu.edu The Tony Award-winning Broadway musical Once comes to the Creative Arts Center. Once tells the story of a street musician who finds success writing love songs after meeting a woman who takes him on a complex romantic journey. $44 and up, $23 for students FEBRUARY 23 The Colored Museum Mountainlair Ballrooms, 1550 University Avenue Tues., 7 p.m., 304.293.3390, cal.wvu.edu Under the direction of WVU theatre instructor and alum Mya Brown, WVU students will perform 1986 play The Colored Museum, which explores identities in African-American culture. 78

MORGANTOWN • FEB/MAR 2016

FEBRUARY 24 Lunchtime Looks Art Museum of WVU, Two Fine Arts Drive, Wed. 12 p.m., 304.293.7790, artmuseum.wvu.edu Bring a bag lunch for stimulating lunch conversations about art, including a 20-minute focused presentation in the current gallery. Free

March MARCH 2 WVU Men’s Basketball Senior Night WVU Coliseum, 3450 Monongahela Boulevard Wed., 7 p.m., 304.293.4340, wvugame.com Bid senior Mountaineers farewell in their last home game as they play the Texas Tech Red Raiders. $22 and up MARCH 4 West Virginia Symphony Orchestra Concert with WVU Chorus Lyell B. Clay Concert Theatre, WVU Creative Arts Center, Fri., 7:30 p.m., 304.293.SHOW events.wvu.edu Performing German composer Johannes Brahms’ masterpiece A German Requiem, the WVU College of Creative Arts’ choir and dean Paul Kreider will join the West Virginia

Symphony Orchestra for a one-of-a-kind classical show. WVU will sponsor a Beer, Brats, and Brahms tailgate beforehand. $25 and up, free for WVU students MARCH 4–13 Courtship and Valentine’s Day Gladys G. Davis Theatre, WVU Creative Arts Center 7:30 p.m., 304.293.2020, theatre.wvu.edu Under the direction of Jerry McGonigle, WVU Theatre puts on two one-act plays from the Orphan’s Home Cycle every night for a week to celebrate true love in an old Western fashion. MARCH 5 & 6 Fishing, Hunting & Outdoor Sports Show Hazel & J.W. Ruby Community Center 500 Mylan Park Lane, Sat., 10 a.m.–7 p.m. Sun., 10 a.m.–4 p.m., 304.288.4244 wvoutdoorsportsshow.com The 15th annual West Virginia Fishing, Hunting, and Outdoor Sports Show is back with more than 53,000 square feet of products and services, including archery, boats, ATVs, trucks, and camping equipment. $8 admission MARCH 6 WVU Gymnastics vs. Ohio State University and Bowling Green University

ED GERSON, COURTESY OF EMPTY BOWLS

WVU Coliseum, 3450 Monongahela Boulevard Sun., 2 p.m., 304.293.4340, wvugame.com The Mountaineers compete against Ohio State University and Bowling Green University in an epic tri-meet at the Coliseum. MARCH 11 WVU Gymnastics vs. Pitt WVU Coliseum, 3450 Monongahela Boulevard Fri, 7 p.m., 304.293.4340, wvugame.com Watch the acrobatic Lady Mountaineers take on the rival University of Pittsburgh Panthers in an exciting gymnastics meet at the WVU Coliseum. MARCH 11–13 Home Show Hazel & J.W. Ruby Community Center, 500 Mylan Park Lane, Fri., 12 p.m.–7 p.m. Sat., 10 a.m.–7 p.m., Sun., 10 a.m.–4 p.m. 304.599.0850, morgantownhomeshow.com More than 10,000 people attended last year’s show put on by the North Central West Virginia Home Builders Association. Visit indoor and outdoor booths for helpful tips on remodeling homes, landscaping, decorating, and financing. MARCH 13 Flashdance Lyell B. Clay Concert Theatre, WVU Creative Arts Center, Sun., 7:30 p.m., 304.293.SHOW events.wvu.edu “What a Feeling,” indeed. Flashdance: The Musical follows a Pittsburgh woman who dreams of becoming a professional dancer, though romance and other complications get in the way of pursuing her passion. $44 and up, $23 for students MARCH 16 “Courage, Curiosity, and Conviction” Wise Library, 1549 University Avenue Wed., 7:30 p.m., 304.293.4040, cal.wvu.edu Gina Barreca of the University of Connecticut will deliver the keynote address of the three-day symposium “Courage, Curiosity and Conviction: Celebrating 125 Years of Women’s Education at WVU.”

FEBRUARY 27 Empty Bowls Monongalia raises money and awareness of hunger issues in and around Morgantown. The 2016 charity luncheon will provide guests with bowls of soup to remind them that someone else’s bowl is always empty. Hazel & J.W. Ruby Community Center, 500 Mylan Park Lane, Sat., 11 a.m., 304.983.2383, ebmon.org

MARCH 19 & 20 PopShop 123 Pleasant Street, Sat., 6 p.m., Sun., 1 p.m. 304.906.9336, popshopwv.com As part of nonprofit community music school PopShop, young rock stars will show off their new skills in a final concert at 123 Pleasant Street.

MARCH 19 Easter Bunny at Harley Davidson 7300 Willie G. Avenue, Sat., 11 a.m.–4 p.m. 304.284.8244, triplesharley-davidson.com This isn’t an average visit to the Easter Bunny. Visit local Harley Davidson Motorcycles dealer Triple S for photos with the Easter Bunny on a motorcycle. $10 for first photo, $5 for additional photos Phil Vassar Mainstage Morgantown, 444 Chestnut Street, Sat., 8 p.m., 304.291.5060 mainstagewv.tunestub.com Billboard Country Songwriter of the Year award winner Phil Vassar performs hits like “In a Real Love” and “Last Day of My Life” at one of Morgantown’s newest music venues. $30

MARCH 26 WVU Women’s Tennis vs. Iowa State Ridgeview Racquet Club, 211 Everhart Drive Sat., 11 a.m., 304.599.1959, wvusports.com In their first Big 12 Conference home match of the season, the Lady Mountaineers take on Iowa State. MARCH 31 Guitar Concert Monongalia Arts Center, 107 High Street, Wed. 7:30 p.m., 304.292.3325, monartscenter.com Japanese singer, songwriter, and guitarist Hiroya Tsukamoto gives a solo performance including pieces from his recent eclectic and immersive album, Places.

Upcoming APRIL 2 The Fabulous Hubcaps Mylan Park, 500 Mylan Park Lane, Sat., 8 p.m. 410.356.5335, thehubcaps.com Travel through the decades with The Fabulous Hubcaps, a classic rock and roll show band touring in their 42nd year. Benefits the Foundation of Mon General Hospital.

GOT A HOT DATE?

Send your events for consideration in our calendar to morgantown@newsouthmediainc.com with the subject line “Calendar.”

MORGANTOWNMAG.COM

THEN & NOW

Kern’s Fort today

Kern’s Fort in 1927

FOR MORE PHOTOS

of Morgantown’s past, check out wvhistoryonview.org

Kern’s Fort In 1927, the local Daughters of the A merican Revolution (DAR) chapter marked the site of Kern’s Fort at the corner of Dewey and Arch streets in Greenmont. Very early pioneer Michael Kern built a log home there in 1772. When Dunmore’s War broke out in 1774, Michael erected a stockade to secure the site as a fort. Present among the DAR celebrants 150 years later was a Thornton Kern, holding Michael’s very own broadaxe—the tool he’d used to hew logs. The building in the background is the original cabin, covered at some point in clapboard. That building, now known as Kern’s Fort, serves today as a three-bedroom rental home. “The logs were covered up inside for many, many years,” says Fred Brooks, husband of the owner. 80

MORGANTOWN • FEB/MAR 2016

“But in 1980 my wife decided to expose them. They’re hand-hewn oak and chestnut.” Fred’s father, longtime WVU professor and Appalachian plant life authority Maurice Brooks, lived in the house in the 1980s. Excavations for gardens in the area have turned up musket balls and arrowheads, according to the 1993 nomination for National Register of Historic Places listing, which declared Kern’s Fort “the only original colonial fort building that is standing in the county and in the whole of North Central West Virginia.” Then & Now is published in partnership with WVU Libraries’ West Virginia & Regional History Center. wvrhc.lib.wvu.edu written by pam kasey