WV Living - Fall 2014

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When it comes to amazing events, great shopping, fantastic restaurants and breathtaking vistas, the mile high Village at Snowshoe Mountain has it all. With a variety of dining options you can indulge your family’s appetites, then enjoy a stroll through the Village shops to check out the latest apparel and mountain biking gear or purchase stunning WV artisan keepsakes. If you are considering a mountain home, visit the Village real estate office to select the perfect base camp to begin your Snowshoe Mountain adventure… come experience our Village today!

VISIT SNOWSHOEMTN.COM OR CALL 877.441.4386 FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO MAKE YOUR RESERVATIONS TODAY.

YOU BELONG UP HERE.


capitol market Âť 800 smith street, charleston


D scove The Shoppes at Seneca! a historic destination for a modern shopping and dining experience

Dining | Jewelry | Florals | DĂŠcor Women's Apparel | Glassware | Giftware Soaps | Bikes | Running Shoes | Fitness Antiques | Quilting supplies | Fabric | Books Magazines | WV-Made Products | Education

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26 businesses*, one historic building Antiques Walk Antonio's Italian Chophouse Country Roads Quilt Shop District Office of Congressman David McKinley Effleurage Massage Therapy and Spa ESL English as a Second Language Fit Future - Julie Pascoe John De Angelis & Co. Morgantown Montessori Preschool Morgantown Old Glass Collectors Guild (display) Morgantown Running Morgantown Security + Fire Neer Psychological Services New South Media, Inc. RE/MAX Real Estate Professionals Rustic by Design - Fireplace & Patio Rustic by Design Olive Oil Company Sunnyside Up Tammy Scudiere - The Cutting Edge The Finery The Little Studio The Soap Opera The Tea Shoppe Thomas Frame & Associates, LLC Valerie Stansberry, Therapeutic Services Wamsley Cycle

The Little Studio

Morgantown

Running

Rebecca Devono Photography

Country Ro ds Quilt Shoa p

*Retail space available

the shoppes at

SENECA CENTER

Located at 709 Beechurst Avenue

MORGANTOWN


VOLUME 7 â—† ISSUE 3

Fall 2014 eLIzABetH ROtH

features

70

76

88

106

Living in point pleasant

Best of West Virginia

Best small towns

taking the scenic route

This Ohio River town has a history that is both haunting and inspiring.

From food to shopping to the best view in the Mountain State, our readers cast their votes.

Read the results of our reader survey to see which cities are best for foodies, families, art lovers, and history buffs.

Hit the road in Pocahontas and other counties for a memorable trip with unforgettable stops along the way.

wvliving.com 5


VOLUME 7 ◆ ISSUE 3

63

39

33 45 spotlight

heritage

in every issue

combines historic charm with modern amenities in Parkersburg.

8 editor’s letter 10 letters to the editor 112 the Parting Shot

15 Dining Lot 12 in Berkeley Springs is

33 Lodging the Blennerhassett Hotel

18 Event Don’t miss the 35th anniversary of

39 Art Wendy clark creates beautiful textiles

19 Spooky Spot

45 Travel experience the vast wonder of

home to some of the finest dining in the Mountain State.

bridge day at the new river gorge.

legend has it an old railroad tunnel in Harrison county is haunted.

20 Preservation experts look to restore

the historic Feagans Mill in Jefferson County, hoping to bring the gristmill back to its original operating conditions.

21 Bookworm Robot Rhymes encourages kids to be creative while paying tribute to a young West Virginian.

23 Shopping Wolf creek gallery in

lewisburg overflows with modern must-have clothing and accessories.

26 West Virginian Who Rocks

the founder of university girls looks back at where her dreams began.

6 wvl • fall 2014

from her home in Belington.

Wayne county and its many hidden gems in southwestern West Virginia.

51 Conversations Sarah Sullivan tackles tough topics in her first young adult novel, All That’s Missing.

56 Celebrations the annual Apple Butter Festival is a tasty event that is still going strong in Salem.

60 In the Kitchen With chef richard Arbaugh of South Hills Market and café serves fine food without all the fuss.

63 Food Feast your eyes on these

scrumptious recipes—great for late summer into fall.

On the Cover Seneca State Forest, located near Dunmore, is West Virginia’s oldest forest. With 11,684 acres of lush woodlands and a four-acre lake, it is a retreat from the demands of modern life. (page 106). Photo by Nikki Bowman



editor’s Let ter

CHECK OUT OUR FAMILY OF

PUBLICATIONS West Virginia Focus is new South Media, inc.’s newest publication, a bimonthly business and policy magazine. wvfocus.com

This has been a year of adventure as I soared high in a biplane in Fayetteville

T

his year was a year of firsts for me. I made a decision years ago to stop collecting things and start collecting experiences. Incredible stories don’t sit on a shelf and collect dust; they burrow themselves into your soul and subtly transform you. You carry them with you no matter where you go. So this year I renewed that commitment. I white water rafted for the first time. I had convinced myself the first rapid would send me over the edge and my helmet would drag me down to the bottom of the river, but alas, as is often the case, my imagination got the better of me. The experience was amazing, and I even managed to stay in the raft—at least until a companion or two, who shall remain anonymous, pulled my unsuspecting self over the edge of the boat and into the river. But without a doubt the most exhilarating and life-altering experience of all was pulling Gs and hanging upside down over the New River Gorge in the open-air cockpit of a World War II biplane. Every time I relive the moment, I’m flushed with joy. For a full account, read my story on Wild Blue Adventure Company in the accompanying WV Living Outdoors issue on page 20. It also brings me great joy to announce the winners of our 2nd Annual Best of West Virginia Awards. Congratulations to the winners! From

8 wvl • fall 2014

and went wild on a white water rafting trip on the New River.

restaurants to shops to towns, this issue is packed with the best the state has to offer. This year we took our WV Living Outdoors special section and turned it into its own stand-alone publication. There is something for everyone in West Virginia. Are you a thrill seeker? Try extreme mountain biking (page 16 of Outdoors). Want a sense of accomplishment with unparalleled views? Climb Via Ferrata (page 17 of Outdoors). Looking for a unique day trip? Then take the scenic tour and practice your photography skills (page 106). Everywhere around you there’s an adventure waiting. I hope when you read stories in our publications you are moved to experience something new yourself. One thing I’ve learned is not to let fear fool you. Face it. Feel it. Let it take your breath away. And then conquer it. There’s no better feeling.

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ULTIMATE WEDDING GUIDE R al Wedd ngs V nues Gowns & More!

WV Weddings is the bridal “bible” for the state and now comes out two times a year. mywvwedding.com

Morgantown is a bimonthly city publication that is the go-to resource for West Virginia’s fastest growing city. morgantownmag.com

CHECK OUT OUR NEW WEBSITE

Experience fall!

nikki bowman, Editor Follow us on

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With a new mobile-friendly design, it’s easier than ever to access West Virginia’s premier online resource, wvliving.com.



Let ter s to the editor

Top-Drawer Writing

What a sumptuous article you have given our park in the summer issue of WV Living! From all of us here at Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park, please accept a great big thanks! It is exciting, top-drawer writing, photography, everything from beginning to end. Everyone here who has read it has nothing but praise for your bringing our rather special historic site once more to the public’s attention in such a stylish, effective way. We deeply appreciate the boost that your interest and talent have given Blennerhassett. ray swick, via email

A

co onial gem on the Ohio R ver Bl nne hasse conside ed the t sland charme most d vis tors long be ore West in the west accord beau iful and elabora ely furn V rginia was a shed home s ate ng to park h stor and the island brought with a hi tor cal sta an Ray Swick them furni ure e park The ami y Manicu ed awns rom London England as w and neat garden Balt more nd ll as French por s cover he and sur ound New ela n orienta l sta ues and alab ng a oph st cat ca pets marble ster amps The centur d 18th y mans on as mans ons doorkn carr es dmir were si ver The a ste nwhee er ng v si ors across obs and hinges couple a so had bo t the r ver from l very se vants is and akes its of the moun Parke sburg The Most people w ains at the t me name f om its st l ved n og bu most infamous gent y coup e Margaret was ld ngs wi h di es dents a landed flee ng po it cal an Old Wor d t flo rs tu bulence in ady Ray says he wild rness this weal h and Ire and to brave The cont ast w of the Uni ed the sur ound ng th S ates frontier pove ty was mediev nd Margar t Bl The B ennerha n 1800 al nne hasse t uncle Harman set s gr nd world and wife made ami y b came and nie e tu n invo ved in a reason fe l apart by 1807 when the he i land heir d husband home bui ding showp ece of and fo mer U scandal wi h ami their wealth and a gl tt ring S vi e p esid y fr end nt Aaron Bu r s yle in the dark then n w ter att mpt ng o Burr was a cused ito ies w lde n ss of s eal U S te r of tory to crea e he Harman Today vi i ors fr n nd p ndent was jail d for m ll over he wor n tion upport ng the park the op ou a base for Burr d flock to the i exped tion and on he sl nd i t att act on n land s ate provid ng whi e M rgaret he M d-Oh o Va sh ghlight of li po sess ons and ook ome of heir e in Pa ker burg ley and a fled w th their ch ldr n down B ennerhas ett commun ty stay Some of he o iver o he sou sland he ps our ig n l furni hings connec ed to its h h sto y Were v w re lost over he fi st oil and mans on and the ewed as one of ime but the gas boom owns i land museum but Parker burg n Parke sburg fur h r than hat or ginal p eces goes back much have a number says Cecil Chi of dre s chairman Is and Hi tor cal The fami y s s of Blenne hass Foundat on The d ta e has ascin tt under tands ts communi y as and the his ori ted Ray since a whole re lly natu al draw i s xth g ade n has spent his s beauty i s un l fe rese rching h story It s an the r tory They queness and ts and docum n id nti ying ma had eve ything ing k It s part of he the wor d and of er at the ime For seve al years cu ture wea th had to The r tory is after he Blenne exo ic—with the paradi e their Europe or the rha set s built home w s he is and eav ng wi derness th their sland cent r of soc ety t hey were uncle Vis tors f om nd had o keep in the egion P ttsburgh wou and nie e t a ecret Ray says The d come to the hos ed by the invo vement w balls and p rties exchange or am ly The Blenne th one of the most h ir rha sett man Ameri an hi glamorous po 114 wvl • summe ion was once tory was lo ing i ic ans n r 2014 all that and su did t became fer ng l ke hey n tionally and in ernat on lly famous A ter the

So Much Support

I love, love, love this publication! It’s one of the most well written, well put together magazines I’ve ever read. Sending so much support your way! emily birckhead, via wvliving.com

10 wvl • fall 2014

Homesick

I love the magazine. The day I get it, I make a date with myself and curl up in my recliner with a cup of coffee and dream of being home in West Virginia. I am perpetually homesick. kimberly davisson, via wvliving.com

The B enn rh s e t Ma s on w s t e most l bo at m ns on of t e Am r can ro t er sa s pa k h s or an Ray Swi k

wvli ing com 115

Hot Dog Festival

I really enjoyed the Sesquicentennial Issue (summer 2013). It was the very first time I read your publication. The article on the Huntington Hot Dog Festival was among my favorites. tilly gokbudak, salem, va, via letter


Let ter s to the editor

WV Living is an asset to the community. It presents a well polished view of things going on in our beautiful Mountain State. kristen vodden, via wvliving.com

Great Places and People

I now live in North Carolina, but am from Hurricane. I love your work and really appreciate all the great places and people you feature in your magazines. My girls were loving your latest Weddings issue in the car. ashley rottey, via Facebook

Feeling Connected

I am so glad you publish this magazine. It helps me to feel connected to West Virginia. I am even more proud of our beautiful state because of the way it is portrayed in your magazine. Thank you. melinda ruli, via wvliving.com

Let us hear from you. We want to know what you think about the magazine, and we’d love to hear your suggestions. Email: info@newsouthmediainc.com Call: 304.413.0104 Mail: 709 Beechurst Avenue, Suite 14A, Morgantown, WV 26505 Take WV Living with you:

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VOLUME 7, ISSUE 3 Published by

New South Media, Inc. 709 Beechurst Ave., Suite 14A Morgantown, WV 26505

New South Media, Inc. 1116 Smith Street, Suite 211 Charleston, WV 25301

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wvliving.com eDItOR

Nikki Bowman, nikki@newsouthmediainc.com

grApHic deSigner

Carla Witt Ford, carla@newsouthmediainc.com

MAnAging editor

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office & circulAtion MAnAger

Sarah Shaffer, sarah@newsouthmediainc.com

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StAFF WRIteRS

Katie Griffith, katie@newsouthmediainc.com Shay Maunz, shay@newsouthmediainc.com Mikenna Pierotti, mikenna@newsouthmediainc.com

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Nikki Bowman, Carla Witt Ford, Mark Webb Photography, Laura Wilcox Rote, Elizabeth Roth Jack Baronner Christa Hamra, christa@newsouthmediainc.com Season Martin, season@newsouthmediainc.com Amanda Eskew, amanda@newsouthmediainc.com Bekah Call, bekah@newsouthmediainc.com Subscription rate is $20 for 4 issues. Subscribe at wvliving.com or call 304.413.0104. Back issues may be purchased online at wvliving.com or by calling 304.413.0104. Unsolicited manuscripts are not accepted. Please send queries by email to info@newsouthmediainc.com. new south media publications

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WV Living is published by new South Media, inc. Subscription rates: $20 for one year. frequency: Quarterly. copyright: new South Media, inc. reproduction in part or whole is strictly prohibited without the express written permission of the publisher. © new South Media, inc. All rigHtS reSerVed

12 wvl • fall 2014


Haunted or Not? CARLA WItt FORD

This fall, get out there and explore the unknown. PICTURED: FLINDERATION TUNNEL, PAGE 19



spotlight Try the Wild Hamachi with Risotto Cake and Caponata at Lot 12.

C

dining

Slow Food

This Berkeley Springs restaurant offers upscale comfort cuisine and a unique attention to detail.

hef Damian Heath was born into a family where food and art are indistinguishable. Nowadays, he and his wife, Betsy, own one of the most beloved fine dining establishments in Morgan County—Lot 12 Public House in Berkeley Springs. It’s not surprising, then, that Damian credits much of the inspiration for his innovative restaurant to the freedom and creativity of a childhood spent riding his bike down dusty country roads, fishing in clear streams, and enjoying big, boisterous Italian family dinners. When he isn’t experimenting with classic dishes like cornmeal crusted flounder or gnocchi, you’ll probably find him spending three days preparing Lot 12’s most popular dish—roasted duck served with pear mango chutney, rosemary potato cake, and bourbon pan juices. His attention to detail sets his restaurant apart. “You won’t find me on one of those shows where you have to prepare a meal in an hour,” he says. Raised by award-winning artists Jan and Jonathan Heath, Damian was born two hours away in Washington, D.C., but moved with his family to Berkeley Springs when he was young. “My parents wanted to get away to the country and live a simpler life,” he says. “I had a very liberal upbringing. We also traveled a lot up and down the East Coast, and I tried a lot of different foods. I used to watch the bartenders and chefs and think about how much fun that would be. I think that’s why I became very independent and free spirited at an early age, and why I’ve always loved cooking.” Damian brings that passion and care to each meal he creates—be it a savory double cut pork chop or a fresh salad made with local goat cheese and herbs grown right outside his door. Just don’t ask him to pigeonhole Lot 12’s culinary niche. “I used to call it traditional American with a spin, but it’s hard for me to put a finger on it. It’s eclectic, but at the same time, it’s familiar. It’s very seasonal. In the fall you’ll have warm wvliving.com 15


spotlight clockwise

Cornmeal Crusted Flounder comes with scallion mashed potatoes, lump crab succotash, micro greens, and basil beurre blanc. Lot 12 opened in 1999. Try

seasonal offerings like Watermelon Tomato Gazpacho. Chef Damian Heath started the Berkeley Springs restaurant after adventures in North and South Carolina.

comfort foods and in the summer you’ll have lighter dishes,” he says. “I take inspiration from Asian flavors, Italian methods, and traditional American dishes. I love to work with some of these techniques that have been forgotten, but at the same time I try to have fun and keep things lively.” Damian didn’t slide seamlessly into a restaurant career. Damian started at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington, studying art history and philosophy. “I still think what I do involves art and philosophy, but I eventually realized that a career in that field would be kind of limited,” he says. So after two years, he left North Carolina for Baltimore International Culinary College, where he took an opportunity to study abroad with certified Master Chef Peter Timmins. “Chef Timmins was incredible, like a magician with food. It was the highlight of my educational process,” he says. “I got a whole new understanding of flavor and classic technique from him.” After graduating, Damian dabbled in several culinary careers—from the Yellow Brick Bank restaurant in Shepherdstown, where he met his wife, to several upscale restaurants in South Carolina. With each move, Damian and his wife developed a deeper appreciation for southern cuisine and the importance of using locally sourced ingredients. It wasn’t until the successful end of their very first season opening and managing a bistro in North Carolina’s Outer Banks that the couple got the opportunity they’d been waiting for. “My parents told me this property was for sale in Berkeley Springs,” Damian says. “I knew the place. I knew it had parking and that all the possibilities were there. And it’s a beautiful house, with a huge porch and hardwood floors. You could see it had so much potential. It was a perfect fit.” So, in 1998, they took another chance, left North Carolina, and settled down in Berkeley Springs. “We knew the area needed another level of dining. I had primarily worked in white-tablecloth restaurants, and we wanted to bring that quality here without 16 wvl • fall 2014

“We knew the area needed another level of dining. I had primarily worked in white-tablecloth restaurants, and we wanted to bring that quality here without making it stuffy.” damian heath, chef and owner


making it stuffy. We didn’t want something pretentious, just really awesome food in a beautiful environment.” After a year of renovation, the restaurant opened with the moniker Lot 12 Public House—named for its history as the 12th plot of land surveyed in 1777 at the town’s founding. Now entering its 15th season, Lot 12 offers guests that white-tablecloth experience paired with distinctive wines, craft beers, and a painstakingly crafted menu. This combination has attracted attention from Southern Living and the Washington Post, among others. Damian says his success is partially a product of what he’s learned about life and food growing up in rural West Virginia. Some things are just better slow. That’s why he’s a proud supporter of Slow Food USA, Local Harvest, Collaborative for the 21st Century Appalachia, and Buy Fresh Buy Local. “It’s the only way. If you’re going to sit and dine, it should be a high-quality experience. The food should take time to grow, prepare, and eat. It just makes sense.” lot 12 public house

117 Warren Street, Berkeley Springs, WV 25411 304.258.6264, lot12.com written by mikenna

pierotti bowman

photographed by nikki

wvliving.com 17


304.848.0911

provencemarketcafe.com Tues-Thurs 11-9 / Fri-Sat 11-10 Sun-Mon Available for Private Parties Outdoor Seating Available

Embellishments Too 106 East Main Street Downtown Bridgeport

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Your Local Source for Trollbeads, Brighton, Leather Products, and so much more. Our Decorative Accessories and Wall Art will blow you away!!! Fashion Apparel and Accessories from Head to Toe.

18 wvl • fall 2014

event

Bridge Day

For 35 years thrill seekers from all over the world have traveled to Fayetteville to experience the rush of Bridge Day over the New River Gorge. On November 8, 1980, five people readied themselves for a feat few at that time could even fathom attempting. An airplane carrying two of the daredevils took off to circle over the New River Gorge in Fayetteville. What looked like two specks from below flew out the side door of the airplane before bright parachutes billowed open to ensure the duo landed safely on the recently constructed bridge below. Three others patiently awaited their arrival, though their solid reunion was short-lived as all five of them, once rejoined, stepped onto the edge of the bridge and jumped. Their 376-foot fall gave rise to West Virginia’s most popular one-day festival—Bridge Day. Each year on the third Saturday in October the New River Gorge Bridge shuts down to vehicular traffic as people from all over the world are invited to walk its 3,030-foot span. “Everyone is excited to walk out onto the bridge,” says Cindy Dragan, chairperson for Bridge Day. Also legal for one day only—the opportunity to BASE jump or rappel off the side of the bridge into the beautiful gorge below. BASE stands for Building, Antenna, Span, and Earth, and the term was coined by aerial cinematographer Carl Boenish in 1978 to represent the four types of objects jumpers leap from. On Bridge Day, slots are limited—only about 450 jumpers make the cut to be able to participate in this unique festival. For more than 30 years Bridge Day has brought spectators and thrill seekers together for one unforgettable experience. Cindy estimates 80,000 people attend the event each year. This year, attendees are encouraged to give back by donating to the Clean Water Initiative presented by the New River Gorge Regional Development Authority and West Virginia American Water. “We are going to be looking and focusing on conservation and preservation of the river,” Cindy says, adding that helping the New River remain pristine is a special way to commemorate the anniversary. As Bridge Day brings more people to the state year after year, Cindy says it’s also a chance for people who know very little about West Virginia to enjoy the scenery and learn a little history at the same time. “It’s a really fun atmosphere. It’s a great way to spend a beautiful fall day.” Bridge Day takes place October 18, 2014, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. officialbridgeday.com written by

jack baronner

keVin broWn

603 South Virginia Avenue Bridgeport, WV


spooky spot

Frightening Flinderation Tunnel there are many stories about Flinderation Tunnel in rural

Harrison County. Railroad workers were killed there, the old folks say, when they were repairing the tracks and a train came along, quickly and without warning. Then there are the stories about the Ku Klux Klan—it’s said the group used the spot for lynching. And then there’s the cemetery above the tunnel, on the hill the tunnel is built into—legend has it some of the coffins buried there fell through the earth, human remains falling from the ceiling.

While these tales are hard to confirm as anything more than ghost stories, we’re here to tell you—this deserted old railroad tunnel, 1,000 feet long and built in 1860, is seriously creepy. It’s a popular destination for ghost hunters, and visitors have reported phantom train whistles, screeching and sobbing sounds, sights like orbs and lights, and mysterious fog. Our photographer even witnessed what appeared to be a séance. Take the Flinderation Road exit on Route 50 about 9 miles from Clarksburg and make a right. Parking is limited. The tunnel will be on the right. Tunnel is short walk from crossbars. written by shay photographed by

maunz carla witt ford wvliving.com 19


preservation

Fixing Feagans just off u.s. route 340 in southern Jefferson County, amid a prickly thicket of hip-high foxtail grass, milkweeds, and a generous amount of poison ivy, stands Feagans Mill, the last of several water-powered mills that operated on the South Fork of Bullskin Run in the county prior to 1800. Once a great resource for regional farmers, the mill has fallen into such disrepair since it last operated in 1943 that refurbishment seems nearly impossible. But that’s simply not so, says Dan Lutz, owner of the mill since 2010. Dan says the structure’s problems are primarily superficial and, with a little restoration and a lot of TLC, the mill could run again, as well as be great for tourism. Built between 1757 and 1760 by the Haines family, the original mill was the first of eight similar structures in the area. Over the many years, the mill has burned down and been rebuilt twice. The original mill met its demise in a fire ordered by generals David Hunter and Philip Sheridan during the Civil War. It was rebuilt in 1868 by the Feagans family, who operated the mill, along with an attached familyrun creamery and a cutlery sharpening venture. Story has it a stray spark from the latter business brought about the mill’s second fire in 1937, after which it was rebuilt and operated until 1943. Dan estimates it would take $350,000 to $500,000 to bring the mill back to its original operating conditions, saying the 16-by-4-foot iron wheel—an 1870 Fritz Wheel made by Fritz Ironworks Company in Martinsburg—is the costliest needed repair. “If we were able to start tomorrow, by this time next year we’d be ready to grind grain. The structure is that stable,” he says. “Everything’s pretty much the way it was when it stopped running in 1943—just with more dust and more junk.” Feagans Mill is one of six structures on the 2014 Preservation Alliance of West Virginia (PAWV) Endangered List, which highlights at-risk properties and assists those involved in their preservation. Lynn Stasick, a PAWV statewide field services representative, says the mill is a prime example of a site worth saving. “The Eastern Panhandle was home to some of West Virginia’s earliest commerce and the gristmill was particularly important to the region,” he says. “Feagans Mill was much more than a place of business. It was a place where people would go to discuss politics, to socialize—it was a huge part of the community.” written by morgan

20 wvl • fall 2014

grice

preservation alliance of west virginia

A ramshackle but historic gristmill in Jefferson County is on the brink of destruction—or restoration.


bookworm

Robot Rhymes

Karen Teel’s first book is part tribute to her son, part lesson to local children. “they tell him to break loose from the fool’s parade. You gotta mind? Step outta line. Choose to create.” Karen Teel, author of Robot Rhymes, includes this rhyme in her book to teach children a lesson: Do something different. Make something. This line and others like it were taken from her late son and hip-hop lyricist Sam Harshbarger, also known as Meuwl. “I wrote Robot Rhymes as a tribute to my son’s creativity and spirit to reinforce positive memories his friends and family have of him,” Karen says. She made the book using lyrics from songs Sam performed and sketches of his unique funkbot creatures. A lifelong West Virginian, Sam first studied at the University of Pittsburgh before returning home to study journalism at West Virginia University from 2003 to 2006. In college Sam hosted a show on the university’s radio station, U92FM, and began to explore hip-hop. As time went by, his passion for writing music grew. On any given night in Morgantown he could be found hosting an open mic at the popular music venue 123 Pleasant Street or hosting a hip-hop boot camp. He gained regional recognition as he performed often from Pittsburgh to his hometown of Charleston. He and his mother talked about creating a children’s book, but it never quite worked out. Then, in 2009, Sam suddenly passed away. He was 29 years old. Karen wanted to show the world her son’s talents by completing the book they always talked about. In it, “a little boom box robot goes to Robot Ranch to learn about life,” Karen says. Ashley Teets, the West Virginia illustrator of Robot Rhymes, also helped to bring Sam’s unique sketches to life. The book won a Mom’s Choice Award Silver Medal for its educational merit. Robot Rhymes was also a finalist at the New York Indie Book Awards and received an honorable mention at the Paris Book Festival in France in spring 2014. The short tale is an entertaining and lyrical read that allows kids’ imaginations to soar and is intended to inspire them. “One of the most important lessons is to make your life count. Make something important,” Karen says. Find the book in Charleston at Taylor Books and WV Marketplace at Capitol Market or online at amazon.com, tower.com, barnesandnoble.com, and booksamillion.com. written by jack

baronner wvliving.com 21


the shoppes at seneca center Âť 709 beechurst avenue, morgantown


spotlight Beautiful clothes and accessories are works of art at

Wolf Creek Gallery in downtown Lewisburg.

S

shopping

Wolf Creek Gallery

Lewisburg’s favorite retailer is a local institution for clothes, accessories, shoes, and more.

hopping at Wolf Creek Gallery in Lewisburg can be a little overwhelming—in a good way. Colorful displays of earrings top cases filled with imaginative necklaces and bracelets. Trendy tops and dresses hang from racks on the walls, reaching all the way to the ceiling. A wall of shoes showcases comfy styles that still manage to look great, too. Further back, candles, frames, and purses stand next to fragrant soaps and lotions. Bohemian chic exudes from every corner, and brands like Free People, Tulle, Frye, LAmade, and Alex and Ani fill the shelves. Decorative window displays beckon and, like kids in a candy store, patrons spend hours perusing. “I really try to find things that are unique, that you can’t find everywhere, but I also buy a lot of classic styles,” says Deva Wagner, the store’s owner. She handpicks every item in Wolf Creek, traveling to markets every three months in Atlanta and New York. “I try to stay tuned in to my local customers. That’s what keeps us going all year round,” she says. Deva also buys what she likes, noting the importance of being passionate about the products you’re selling. She recognizes that quality pieces stand the test of time. “I want people to purchase something they can wear for years,” she says—not that she’s afraid to throw a few trendy items in the mix. “Right now we’re selling a lot of Alex and Ani bracelets,” Deva says. Another popular recent addition is a line of West Virginiathemed bracelets that have a heart stamped within a metal outline of the state. If Wolf Creek doesn’t have what you’re looking for, Deva says they’re always happy to do special orders, too. “We try to put customer service above everything else,” she says. Deva has been at Wolf Creek from the beginning. She managed the store when it was first opened in 1994 by Dick and Vivian wvliving.com 23


spotLight Wolf Creek Gallery is popular with people of all ages, offering everything from

greeting cards and jewelry to home decor and clothing for all occasions, plus great gift ideas.

Pranulis, an Alderson couple who expanded their long-running home-based calendar business to include women’s clothing as part of a new retail store. “They gave me a lot of flexibility and free rein to do what I wanted for the store,” Deva says. Four years later, the original owners offered Deva the store, and she bought it. After more than 40 years, Dick and Vivian are still making Wolf Creek calendars from their home in Alderson—and after 20 years in business, Wolf Creek Gallery is still selling them. The store—and calendars—get their name from a district between Alderson and Monroe County, where the original owners have a family farm. “Even though the store has changed so much over the years, we still have the name,” Deva says. The beloved Wolf Creek calendars are always ready during the second week of October, coinciding with the popular 24 wvl • fall 2014

Taste of Our Towns festival in Lewisburg. Wolf Creek’s sidewalk sale is also popular and is a well attended event in town. Every August, during the first weekend of the West Virginia State Fair, shopaholics line the sidewalk outside Wolf Creek for a shopping frenzy more at home in the fashion district of a big city than the quiet streets of Lewisburg. It’s that passionate following and unique character that make Wolf Creek right at home in Lewisburg’s eclectic downtown. “For a small town that’s like three blocks long, Lewisburg really has a lot to offer people,” Deva says. “I appreciate being a part of it.” wolf creek gallery

112 West Washington Street, Lewisburg, WV 24901 304.645.5270 written and photographed by elizabeth

roth

SPRE ADING

THE LOVE Love Child—another venture from Wolf Creek owner Deva Wagner—is making sure the kids are stylish and comfy, too. The children’s boutique was formerly known as DoSiDo and located above Wolf Creek, but has expanded into a larger space down the street. Find clothing, toys, and more for ages up to 8 years. 124 West Washington Street, Lewisburg, WV 24901, 304.520.4934


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spotlight

founder and owner of University Girls Apparel, was one of those students in 2008. Well into her senior year at West Virginia University, Nesha was traveling across the country as a varsity cheerleader. It was during her time away from school that she came to a realization. Looking around the stadiums and arenas at games she cheered for, Nesha says she would see women wearing frumpy, almost masculine looking clothes. “Maybe I’m not the only person who struggles to find cute and fashionable clothes,” she thought. She wanted something chic and comfortable to wear to represent her school pride. So she started to make her own tops. “I would buy clothes—a plain gray tank top—and west virginian sew the patches onto who rocks them,” Nesha says. She bought simple shirts or tank-tops and altered them to make the pieces one-of-a-kind. Her attire soon caught the attention of girls Nesha Sanghavi brings a whole new image on campus. “I had a lot of people asking to women’s collegiate apparel. me where I got the shirts from.” ake a walk around any college These days women can find fitted, striped campus on game day and you V-necks with the logo on the breast pocket, will see a whole lot of school colorful tanks for those warm basketball logos stitched and screen printed games, and flannel button-down shirts with across students’ chests. From feminine profiles. University Girls even sells head to toe, everything from hats to socks are accessories like rhinestone bangles. “Anything blue and gold or green and white or red and that has a unique fashionable aspect to it,” white—their school colors. Nesha Sanghavi, Nesha says. The sharp designs and edgy looks

Collegiate Couture

T

26 wvl • fall 2014

are perfect for any woman who wants to make a fashion statement and, at the same time, impress with her school pride. Nesha graduated from WVU in 2008 with a major in finance and officially started her company that summer. “I started out in my parents’ basement in Charleston,” Nesha says. Everything she sold was custom-made— different from the generic jerseys and tees that flood the market. Her business got off on the right foot, but something was missing. She decided to study fashion at Parsons The New School for Design in New York City from 2009 to 2011. “I really needed to know more about the fashion industry,” she says. Parsons is a private art and design college that prepares students for jobs in the fashion and design industries. Today University Girls Apparel flourishes under Nesha’s direction. When she first became a licensed retailer, she knew she had potential, but the future was uncertain. “I never realized how big of an opportunity it was,” she says. Her products now reach far and wide, with more than 200 retailers carrying her clothes. She has a couple of part-time employees, but she mostly runs the company herself with some help from her parents. Everything from approving designs to taking orders and shipping them still takes place in Charleston. WVU and Marshall University were the first schools to license her clothes. After those successes, more schools licensed the clothing. Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia, Virginia Tech, Auburn, and Nebraska are some of the 20 colleges that license her clothing. “Getting the University of Alabama was a big success for us. It let us know we are unique in the market,” Nesha says, adding that the university is the number one merchandised university in the nation. And there are no signs of slowing down. Nesha plans to continue to grow, focusing on the Southeast and Midwest to hopefully bring in more school licenses. Nesha says her Charleston roots have been beneficial. “People from West Virginia are more down-to-earth,” she says. “In business, that has helped me build better relationships.” But she says it’s still hard to believe how far she’s come. “I think even my parents were thinking I was going through a phase: ‘We’ll let her try this out on her own,’ so they let me go through my phase.” It was a phase worth developing. ugapparel.com written by jack

baronner

photographed by elizabeth

roth






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A Suite Getaway Heritage, luxury, and community combine at Parkersburg’s Blennerhassett Hotel. written by katie

griffith witt ford

photographed by carla


her itage | Lodging

it’s a warm afternoon at The Blennerhassett Hotel, but a row of busy ceiling fans keeps the air moving on the patio. The heady scent of flowers from the nearby garden and the sounds of jazz provide a soothing baseline for the chatter of ladies out to lunch. Cotton clouds float through the sky, dotted here and there by the stone spires of the Parkersburg skyline. In the restaurant, as throughout the hotel, earth tones, wood, and leather mix with delicate patterns and detailing. More masculine than feminine, but certainly not hunting lodge, it’s an atmosphere where a table of businessmen, a honeymooning couple, or a lonesome writer can feel refined while dunking breakfast potatoes into a side of ketchup. European-style elegance, they call it, but the experience is even better. “Owning a historic hotel is like owning a minor league baseball team. You need to really love the game,” says Cecil Childress, general manager of the hotel. “The owner here has a commitment to getting it right—oak trim and flat screen TVs.” Named for its famous island neighbor Blennerhassett Island, The Blennerhassett Hotel was born in 1889 as a grand guesthouse in downtown Parkersburg for the oil and gas elite. A remodel of the property in the 1980s added another 49 rooms to the 34 wvl • fall 2014

original building, doubling its room capacity, but it wasn’t until the local Ross family purchased the hotel and remodeled again in the early 2000s that the Blennerhassett began to typify modern elegance and period luxury. “It’s an iconic, architectural building here in downtown Parkersburg, which sets us apart from anything else,” says Marketing Manager Nicole Slattery. “In the remodel they took it to a whole new level in terms of interior design, look, and feel. It’s casual but upscale.” Today it’s still a businessman’s hotel, but the Blennerhassett’s boutique styling and welcoming atmosphere draw visitors for weddings, weekend getaways, and tourism, as well as corporate meetings. Guests can choose from seven types of rooms decorated in the rich reds and browns reminiscent of the hotel’s founding. “People love our signature rooms, like the Chancellor and the William Morris,” Nicole says. “But it’s not just our signature suites that are completely different. Of all our 89 rooms, no two are the same.” Executive suites adjoin personal boardrooms. Double rooms are just right for road-tripping friends. Suites set the scene for more romantic intentions. While rooms follow a similar theme, each is different with granite counters, whirlpool tubs, spa-grade showers, four-poster king beds,

walk-in closets, and Keurig coffeemakers. Designs follow floor plans, which, in a historic building, can be a bit erratic. As the hotel changed hands, walls were knocked down to create bigger rooms or built back up to move staircases. Little nooks and crannies formed in unusual shapes and sizes. The Blennerhassett has incorporated these spaces into room design as powder rooms or half-baths within executive suites. “Many of the architectural elements kept in our guest rooms were not just historic character, they are the challenges of renovations of an old building,” Cecil says. “It gives us a feel similar to a luxury bed-and-breakfast.” While each room has a distinct character, the most unique in the hotel is the Marie Antoinette room. Painted a dusty blue and decorated in soft pinks and yellows, the signature suite stands out as a simple but feminine showpiece in a sea of more masculine style. A ballroom, library, patio tent, business rooms, and an exercise room round out the available amenities. Stepping away from the luxury of guest rooms to sit in the library, cozy and wood-paneled with tall windows flooding the room in natural light, you might be taken aback by the beauty of the space, not to mention the friendliness


Lodging | her itage The Blennerhassett Hotel in Parkersburg offers luxurious

amenities in a central location. Visit Spats for a delicious seasonal meal.

wvliving.com 35


her itage | Lodging

Mansion by Candlelight for two nights this fall blennerhassett island Historical State park will transform into a glowing time machine for the annual Mansion by candlelight celebration. the event kicks off october 10, 2014, when the island sternwheeler transports visitors to the year 1805 for an island party hosted by the blennerhassett family. Hundreds of candles light a path from the boat landing to the mansion where park workers and volunteers will reenact period scenes. reservations are required and include the mansion visit, a servants’ party, and a roundtrip ride from parkersburg’s waterfront to the mansion. Dinner tickets are also available. 304.420.4800, blennerhassettislandstatepark. com

of its patrons. In the afternoon, two Parkersburg men at the in-house Starbucks take a break after a business meeting to introduce themselves to a guest sitting alone. It’s all part of the spark that sets The Blennerhassett Hotel apart. “The Blenny,” as it’s called by locals, isn’t just an impeccably modernized historic hotel in the middle of Parkersburg. It’s not just a place to rest your head in feather pillows after a day of touring the nearby Blennerhassett Island and mansion. It’s as much a part of local life as it is an upscale boutique hotel. Central to the local taste for the hotel is the in-house Spats restaurant led by Chef Rick Argoso. Head chef for just over a year, Rick arrived in Parkersburg from InterContinental where he worked for 13 years. His menu, like the hotel itself, takes a modern look at old favorites. “I like to do classics and revamp older dishes,” he says. “I’ve worked with a lot of chefs from many different backgrounds and I’ve learned a bit of everything. I try to implement that into these classics.” His weekly specials and culinary

Chianti Braised Short Ribs

Small can whole tomatoes 2 cups Chianti wine Butter

6 boneless short ribs Salt and pepper Flour Vegetable oil 5 cups beef stock Mirepoix (1 Spanish onion, 2 carrots, peeled, 1 celery stalk) 5 garlic cloves, chopped

1. Preheat oven to 300º. Heavily season short ribs with salt and pepper then dust with flour. Sear 3. Once cooked, remove the short off short ribs with vegetable oil ribs, strain liquid, and reduce in a Dutch oven or pot. Remove liquid to sauce consistency. Finish short ribs then sauté the mirepoix with butter and season to taste. with garlic until caramelized. Place the ribs back into the Dutch oven and deglaze with Chianti.

provided by Chef Rick Argoso

36 wvl • fall 2014

events, combined with live entertainment and an easy atmosphere, draw a number of people to the restaurant—hotel guests and locals alike. Nicole estimates more than half of weekly business at the restaurant comes from a supportive local community. In turn the hotel staff and owners are active in local culture, participating in events like the annual Taste of Parkersburg, a culinary tour of the town. “At the hotel we don’t have a spa, a golf course, or a pool,” Nicole says. “But we do have the historic Blennerhassett Island, museums, a local market, the Julia-Ann Square Historic District, and the Smoot Theatre. We’re working with local groups like Downtown PKB to come up with ways to make this a destination.” In winter the hotel hosts the Festival of Trees, a gingerbread competition, and a popular New Year’s Eve party. Through spring and summer, it offers an island tour package. During Halloween season it offers a haunted Parkersburg package. “It’s great to work at a place that’s such a part of the culture,” Cecil says. “We’re very much a cultural component in the community.”

2. Once the wine is reduced by half, add tomatoes with juice and stock. Allow liquid to come to a boil and transfer to oven to cook for 4 hours.



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Spinning Stories This Belington textile artist weaves stories into art and art into stories. written by mikenna pierotti photographed by carla witt ford


her itage | Art Wendy Clark creates colorful textiles using inspiration she finds all around her in Belington.

weavers have always occupied an inbetween space. In mythology, they are diviners and mediators, gods and mortals, the keepers of fate and the spinners of stories. Crunching up the steep gravel road to weaver Wendy Clark’s cabin in Belington, the path winding around a hill overgrown with blackberries and black-eyed Susans, you might imagine yourself slipping into a mythical land. For Wendy, a transplant from New Jersey turned awardwinning textile artist, that wild Appalachian countryside is the setting for her own personal fairytale. “This is the kind of place where, it may not be your birth home, but you can’t take it out of your heart,” she says. “It’s always a part of you.” In the walk-out basement of her log home, Wendy gets ready for the day. She starts with a 7 a.m. hike—two to three miles along paths cut into the overgrowth or down the road to the bottom of the hill, sketchbook in hand, her dog, Tinker, trotting in her shadow. “I’m usually pretty strict about my 40 wvl • fall 2014

schedule,” she says. She fully intends to get three or four pieces done this morning, but right now she’s soaking it all up—the warm sunrise, the flowers, the sky darkening over the hills in anticipation of an afternoon storm. “The West Virginian landscape is a huge inspiration for me. A lot of these places where I go hiking and walking, this is where the colors come from. Every single one of the colorways has a story behind it,” she says. She points out a scarf that drips with muted greens, purples, and blues—like it was dipped in a watercolor painting. It’s a summer storm frozen in fabric. “It’s like a modern impressionist painting in the way the color washes over the entire piece and the way in which the colors blend together.” In fact, many of her pieces start out that way—boiled down from a West Virginia landscape into a sketch, then a painting, then a dye, and finally into a textile. Wendy and her husband, Rick, fell for West Virginia in their youth. “We grew up together and started coming as soon as we could drive. We came down for weekends, went kayaking, and hung out on the rivers,” she says. Having grown up surrounded by women who worked magic with their hands—quilting, knitting, and crocheting— Wendy was always drawn to traditional arts. “My mother, grandmother, and husband’s mother were very strong influences. The values I learned in my youth are very much a part of how I work now.” After graduating

from high school, Wendy spent four years at West Virginia Wesleyan College studying art and education. “The dream was to go to Wesleyan and never leave. But back in the early 1980s, I couldn’t find a teaching job here,” she says. Despite having to leave, they never really settled down anywhere else. “We always knew West Virginia was going to be home. We always knew we were going to come back to it.” Wendy taught art for years, but she always knew something was missing. “I got to the point where I was tired of only talking about the work and really wanted to focus on the passion of the work itself.” In 1987 she bought her first loom. Seven years later, while teaching in northern New Hampshire, she won the Linda Clark McGoldrick Fellowship. “That’s when I started renting spaces. It became so important I started renting places to put looms.” Soon she was studying under accomplished weavers and master dyers. “I experimented with all sorts of weaving, from table linens to fabric to rugs.” Eventually she landed on a style all her own, a blend of the traditional forms she learned and her experience as a child hiking mountains and playing in rivers. Her signature style is not only in hand-dyeing unique colorways but in weaving with two and three colors at a time, lending a freeform beauty to each piece. “When I dye the colors, it’s about interpreting what I see. When I weave, the sense of home I have is really key for me.” Although she and her husband had already purchased land in the tiny community of Belington, she turned back to her studies again, completing her MFA from Goddard College in Vermont in 2010. That same year they moved into their hand-hewn log cabin, set back from civilization on the lip of Buttermilk Ridge. “The entire time we were gone, we were thinking about getting back. When we finally got here, my inspiration took off and the work really started to develop,” she says. “When we first came back, everybody was saying, ‘Wendy, you have to go to Tamarack.’ I was still teaching at Wesleyan part-time, so I wasn’t quite sure where I was going to go. But when I became a juried artisan there, that’s when things really started for me.” After earning approval from Tamarack’s panel of master craftspeople and artists, Wendy’s work began to appear in galleries and shops across the country—from Studio 40 in Lewisburg to the exclusive de Young Museum Store in San Francisco. She won a grant through the West Virginia Division of Culture and History and became


Art | her itage

Wendy points to a scarf dripping in color—like it was dipped in a watercolor painting. She likens her work to impressionist paintings.

Many of her pieces begin that way—from a West Virginia landscape into a sketch, then a painting, then a dye, and finally into a textile.

wvliving.com 41


her itage | Art

clockwise Wendy hand-dyes and hand-weaves each piece. She uses blends of cotton, rayon, silk, bamboo, and

42 wvl • fall 2014

natural yarns. Threading and setting up her largest loom is an intense process that takes up to a week.


a 2014 NICHE Awards Finalist. She says she’s booked solid most months between shows, orders, and custom pieces, but it’s a happy sort of chaos. “I wove 757 pieces last year. At the end I had seven left unsold. I’m blown away. I still have to pinch myself,” she says. After her morning walk, Wendy is back at the loom, bare feet on the treadles, tapping out a rhythm as she passes the shuttle back and forth through the threads. She works steadily but quietly. Very rarely she’ll listen to NPR or a book on tape—and only when she isn’t threading a loom, which requires intense concentration and can take up to a week. “I love this process,” she says. The give and take is like a dance, and the soft rattle of the heddles, each carrying a single thread, is almost musical. “I don’t need inspiration to keep me at the loom. When I’m weaving, it’s a joy.” She has three types of looms in the front of her studio—the counterbalance, the jack, and the massive countermarch. In the back, her dye studio is a cross between grandma’s kitchen, with old steamer pots and spoons, and a mad scientist’s lab, with strange powders and gas masks. Along the walls are cones of white, undyed yarn; hanging strands of dyed silk, bamboo, cotton, rayon, and soy; and everywhere are racks upon racks draped in impossibly soft, impossibly long fabric. Point to nearly any piece in her collection and she’ll tell you its story—a blue sky-inspired baby wrap for a soldier returning home from Afghanistan; a length of mercurial rainbow fabric for a mother of five; a vibrant piece soon to wrap a pair of mothers, friends who both suffered the loss of a child. For custom pieces, customers will often send their photos and stories to inspire Wendy’s work. “It just fills my heart to know I’m weaving to wrap a mom and a baby or a daddy and a baby in all this love.” For her, the stories behind her pieces—whether inspired by a walk or the life of a complete stranger—are almost as important as the finished work itself. “That’s one of the things I do—take an idea and try to bring it to life in the form a few meters of cloth,” she says. “It reflects life in a lot of ways. There are quiet places and there are dancing places.” wenweave

1911 Buttermilk Ridge Road, Belington, WV 26250, 304.940.9042, wenweave.com

wvliving.com 43


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Out Wayne

The state’s westernmost county is worth exploring. written by laura

photographed by mark

“O

ut Wayne.” or “OW.” or “WOW” or “Way Out Wayne.” These are phrases of affection for an area so unique it calls for an acronym. “Nobody says, ‘I’m going to drive to Wayne.’ They say, ‘I’m going Out Wayne,’” says Brandon Dennison, who lives “Way Out Wayne,” near the Holy Cross Monastery where Russian Orthodox monks find peace off of a narrow road in the wilderness. It’s true—much of Wayne County is way out there, down winding roads, over harrowing hills, amidst quiet, towering trees. The county itself is bigger than most people realize, with more than 500 square miles and

wilcox rote webb photography

40,000 people within its borders. There is a lot to see and do in this westernmost county, which, unbeknownst to many, is made up of part of Huntington—including favorite stops Camden Park and Heritage Farm Museum & Village—as well as small towns like Kenova, Ceredo, Lavalette, and, of course, the county seat of Wayne. “A lot of people feel like south of Huntington is a no man’s land, and they’re wrong about that,” says Brandon, a Cabell County native who’s lived in Wayne County for three years and runs a successful business there. “If they’d take the time to drive south they’d be really pleasantly surprised.” Indeed, the county is a strange, beautiful place, and in fall it’s arguably at its best

as the hills come alive with color. Come October, visitors come by the busload to see the Pumpkin House while others take part in the Ceredo-Kenova Autumn Fest or get in line for pumpkin ice cream at Austin’s. And there’s plenty to explore—from the vast Beech Fork Lake Marina to the momand-pop restaurants in tiny towns and communities with names like Fort Gay and Crum. No matter the season, there’s a sense of unity and community pride that is uniquely Wayne County. “Wayne County is a hidden gem. The word is just now beginning to get out about everything Wayne County has to offer,” Brandon says. wvliving.com 45


her itage | Travel

Ceredo/ Kenova Perhaps the best known small cities in Wayne County, Ceredo and Kenova are like the tiny towns you picture when you close your eyes—complete with tree lined streets, gazebos, ball games, and parades. They work together, and they’re barely distinguishable to outsiders, though the locals are always happy to set visitors straight.

Pumpkin House The Kenova mayor’s house is a Halloween wonderland. Thousands of uniquely carved pumpkins adorn seemingly every inch of Ric Griffith’s property—on his lawn, above his windows, and lining the porch of his beautiful Victorian home. By late October people near and far travel to the house to see the pumpkins all lined up and glowing at dusk. ➻ Beech Street, Kenova ckautumnfest.com

HUNTINGTON KENOVA

LAVALETTE Beech Fork State Park

WAYNE

DUNLOW Cabwaylingo State Forest

46 wvl • fall 2014


Travel | her itage

C-K Autumn Fest

Griffith & Feil Slurp an old-fashioned coke or milkshake from the soda fountain at Griffith & Feil, also a family drugstore since the 1920s. ➻ 1405 Chestnut Street, Kenova 304.453.2381 g fdrug.com

laura wilcox rote

Enjoy the parade, take in the beauty of the Pumpkin House, and even start your holiday shopping by perusing many handmade items at the arts and crafts show. The C-K AutumnFest takes place October 24 and 25, 2014. ➻ ckautumnfest.com

Make a reservation for dinner at Rocco’s and enjoy some of the very best Italian dining in the state. Try the popular Lobster Langostino—langostino meat with angel hair pasta, cream, and the cheeses of the house. ➻ 252 Main Street, Ceredo, 304.453.3000 roccosristorante.com

nikki bowman

toril lavender

Rocco’s Little Italy

Mitch Stadium The legendary Mitch Stadium has been bringing people together since 1953. Home to the annual Tournament of State Champions, this beautiful baseball park hosts many tournaments and other community events. ➻ 600 Poplar Street, Ceredo, mitchstadium.com

Twelvepole Creek

Evaroni’s is a Kenova institution, with some of the very best pizza in the tri-state region since the late 1960s. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion—think reunions and homecomings—or a Little League win, this is the place to be for dinner. Closed Mondays. ➻ 914 Oak Street, Kenova, 304.453.4355

Austin’s Homemade Ice Cream nikki bowman

For an adventure off the beaten path, locals like Brandon love kayaking at Twelvepole Creek. “It’s gorgeous. It runs the length of the county,” he says. It rises in northern Mingo County before flowing north through Wayne County.

Evaroni’s

This longtime favorite opens in April and closes for the winter after October 15. In fall, the pumpkin ice cream is to die for. Get it while you can. ➻ 1103 C Street, Ceredo, 304.453.2071 wvliving.com 47


her itage | Travel

Huntington

Once a month, the sprawling grounds of Heritage Farm Museum & Village transform for Way Back Weekends. Stop by on October 11, 2014, for “Timber in the Mountains” or November 1, 2014, for “Industry Alive” and learn what it was like to harvest timber in the mountains or make hand-blown glass or wood-fired pottery. ➻ 3300 Harvey Road Huntington, 304.522.1244

Hermitage of the Holy Cross This beautiful oasis in Wayne County is a haven not just for Russian Orthodox monks, but for all who visit. Check out the gift shop for incense, soaps, lotions, and candles made on-site by the monks themselves. ➻ 505 Holy Cross Road, Wayne, holycross-hermitage.com

Wayne Diner Want a double cheeseburger? How about pizza? Or even shrimp? Well you’re in luck. “You can go down there and order just about anything you want,” says Jim Boggs, the Wayne County administrator. “Just call and order. If you want a fried bologna sandwich, they’d make you one up.” Locals say the diner is a blast from the past but with an interesting political twist, as it’s close to the county courthouse and attracts the local commissioners and judges for great country cooking. ➻ 11529 Route 152, Wayne, 304.272.3111

Camden Park This historic amusement park isn’t just a summer favorite; it’s packed on October weekends, too, as Fridays and Saturdays at the park feature the Halloween Spooktacular. ➻ 5000 Waverly Road, Huntington, camdenpark.com 48 wvl • fall 2014

nikki bowman

Heritage Farm Museum & Village

toril lavender

nikki bowman

Wayne

Wayne Courthouse When there’s an election, you can bet this courthouse is packed. Locals from all over the county come out to be a part of the action as votes are tallied well into the evening. ➻ waynecountywv.org


Travel | her itage

lAurA Wilcox rote

Lavalette

lAurA Wilcox rote

Beech Fork Lake Marina Bring your kayak, rent a pontoon boat, or simply let the kids run around one of the playgrounds while you relax by the water. The area is set to become even more of an attraction in the coming years, as local officials hope construction of a 75-room lodge will get underway in 2014 or 2015. ➻ beechforklakemarina.com

CABWAYLINGO STATE FOREST 4279 cabwaylingo park road dunlow 304.385.4255

Blatt’s Greenhouse

CRUM FALL FESTIVAL October 4, 2014

lAurA Wilcox rote

Blatt’s Greenhouse is a wonderland of plant life and décor year-round. In fall, shop for everything from mums and pansies to pumpkins, gourds, and straw. The local business also offers poinsettias for the winter holidays. ➻ 4615 Route 152, Lavalette 304.529.7839, blattsgreenhouse.com

blAtt’S greenHouSe

Hazelett’s Triple H Drive Inn

Sugarwood Golf Club This highly ranked golf course is six miles south of Huntington off of State Route 152. The course has been renovated many times over the years since opening in 1980. ➻ sugarwoodgolfclub.com

More to See

This roadside diner serves country food without frills—platters with sandwiches, fries, and coleslaw or $1.80 hot dogs, among other country staples. Take some money for the jukebox and to pay your bill—this greasy spoon is cash only. ➻ 4450 5th Street Road

CRUM PIZZA HOUSE 292 crum road, crum 304.393.4290 EAST LYNN LAKE eleven miles south of Wayne on State Route 37 TRI-RIVER DRAGWAY u.S. route 52, fort gay tririverdragway.com TWIN SILOS GOLF CLUB Lavalette, twinsilos.com WAYNE FALL FESTIVAL October 10–11, 2014

wvliving.com 49


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Conversations | her itage

Sarah graduated from West Virginia University with a law degree, but she was always a closet writer. In 2004 she received her MFA in writing for children from Vermont College and is the author of four picture books: Root Beer and Banana (Candlewick, 2005), Dear Baby: Letters From Your Big Brother (Candlewick, 2005), Once Upon a Baby Brother (Candlewick, 2010), and Passing the Music Down (Candlewick, 2011). All That’s Missing (Candlewick, 2013) is her debut young adult novel, and Publishers Weekly calls it “quietly affecting coming-of-age story about finding family and confronting change.” When you were growing up, your family moved a lot and you were always the new girl. How did this affect you? there is nothing like facing the playground or the lunchroom or the school bus for the first time when you don’t really know a soul and are trying to figure out where to sit or stand. it’s the loneliest feeling in the world. You want desperately to fit in, so you study how others are acting and start to shape your behavior accordingly. You become an acute observer. that’s perfect training for a writer—to observe and try to understand human behavior and motivation. When you were 5 years old, you lived with your paternal grandparents’ in Tappahannock, Virginia. How did that shape the book’s setting? Actually, the house in my novel is sort of an amalgam of my grandparents’ home and a lovely old rundown house in lewisburg with a back staircase and a big attic. i definitely imagined the landscape near tappahannock. the smells of the place evoke the strongest feelings—like an old garage with the commingled scents of motor oil and damp concrete and, more than anything, the smell of boxwoods. i even took a boat trip up the Rappahannock River to let the landscape seep into my unconscious.

Sarah Sullivan

What’s your fondest memory of living there? I think it was simply the feeling of safety and permanence. i was free to wander around the yard, playing in the woods where my grandmother had a boxwood nursery. i stood on the riverbank and watched the boats chugging down the river. i sneaked into the kitchen pantry and ate potato chips, which i was not allowed to eat at home. When my cousin came to visit, we played in the apartment over the garage. there was so much freedom and yet there was a definite feeling of being cared for and protected.

sarah sullivan knows that if you have the courage to write about what haunts you, “Your story will be authentic and true because it comes from some place deep within.” The definition of home has always haunted her, and Sarah’s life was not an easy one. She survived the tragic death of her young son and found refuge in writing. Her evocative first young adult novel, All That’s Missing, reflects a deep longing for family and a place to belong. She deals with important issues like dementia, family secrets, and a quest for identity and truth all through the eyes of a brave and caring 11-year-old boy who lives with his grandfather.

After graduating from law school at WVU and practicing bankruptcy law for 14 years, tragedy struck and your life completely changed. My son was diagnosed with leukemia when he was 10, and i stopped working when he underwent a cord blood transplant. At the time of his death two years later, my mother was terminally ill, so i did not go back to work. i had been writing late at night and early in the morning for years. When i sold two picture books to candlewick, i gave myself permission to go to Vermont college for my MfA and have never looked back.

Conversations with written by laura

treacy bentley

wvliving.com 51


her itage | Conversations

What gave you the strength to keep going? My husband, Rick, is my knight on a white horse who never faltered when his new stepson was diagnosed with a lifethreatening illness. He shielded me from all the daily battles of life, especially fighting the insurance company, which turned out to be a monumental task, thereby enabling me to focus on caring for Jack. After losing my father in 1992, my son in 1995, and my mother in 1997, writing saved me. It was the only way I could try to make sense of the world. I was emotionally and physically drained. It took going to Vermont College to recover and find my way. The people I met in the MFA program are some of my dearest friends. Without that experience, I’m afraid to think where I might be now.

“My favorite thing is sitting out on the screened porch and enjoying the sweetsmelling air and watching a great blue heron swoop low over the water.”

Sarah canoes The young boy in your novel, the Greenbrier Arlo, is orphaned and lives River with her with and tries to “parent” grand-niece. his grandfather, Poppo, who has dementia. Did you know anyone with this condition? While I have never lived with someone who suffered from dementia or Alzheimer’s, both my brother and my father-in-law struggled with a form of those conditions and that definitely influenced my writing of this book.

Is Arlo anything like your son? I didn’t model Arlo after Jack, but there are similarities. Debra sarah sullivan Sullivan, who was the principal at Charleston Catholic when Jack was in sixth grade, read the book and told me she thought I had really Can you explain the current explosion captured the mind of a 12-year-old boy. “You How long did it take you to finish your book? in young adult (YA) sales? Pundits have write what you know,” she told me, and I think Well, here’s a small confession. All That’s suggested that the boom in YA sales is a she was referring to the fact that I had spent a Missing is actually the third novel I’ve written, side effect of the Harry Potter phenomenon. lot of time with Jack and his friends, giving me but it’s the first one to be published. My second The theory is that kids who began reading a window into their world. novel was a finalist in a publishing contest, Harry Potter as 7- or 8-year-olds back in but it needed work, so it is sitting in a drawer. I the late ’90s and early 2000s developed a Is Arlo’s friend, Maywood, like you in any way? spent about eight years writing this novel and, voracious appetite for books and reading. Yes, I’m sure the fact that she is a bookworm when word came that it would be published, This, in turn, caused publishers to focus makes her a lot like me. And her boldness there was definitely a celebration—I believe it more on their YA lists. Everybody is looking in setting out to explore new places and try involved champagne. for “the next big thing.” to solve a mystery is like me, too. I suppose 52 wvl • fall 2014


Conversations | her itage

because we moved so often I became used to exploring new places on my own. I still like doing that. It feels like a fresh start with new possibilities, and I thrive on that. Arlo is searching for family and his history that has been kept a secret. Should children be protected from their pasts? I tend to come down on the side of telling children the truth. When Faulkner said the past “isn’t even past,” he was so right. In some ways, all of us are bound to live with the truth of our family’s past, so I think life is much easier to navigate if you know the truth. It can be devastating to learn later in life that you have constructed your whole understanding of who you are on a lie. What is your definition of home? Oh my, there’s the question I will never know how to answer. The best I can do is to say there are different kinds of home. I’m not sure where home is for me, though I was born in West Virginia and have lived there most of my life. It is certainly one of my homes, as are Littleton, Colorado, where I grew up, and Wilmington, Delaware, where I finished high school. I think home may be more of a feeling than an actual location. It’s where you feel like you belong.

Arlo says Poppo “time travels” when he tries to find people from his past. If you could time travel, where would you go? I’ve always been fascinated by the writers, artists, dancers, and composers of the 1920s. I would love to drop in on one of Gertrude Stein’s salons on the Rue de Fleurus and see Hemingway or Robert Sherwood or sit beside Zelda and Scott Fitzgerald at a café in Paris or eavesdrop on a gathering of the members of the Round Table, Dorothy Parker or Robert Benchley or Harpo Marx. Do you still have your cabin in West Virginia? Yes, it’s above Renick and is only accessible by boat or by walking across the river. My husband loves being out in the woods and he did a lot of work on the cabin himself. We first had a cabin near Hinton, but it was washed off the foundation and virtually destroyed in a flood. We salvaged the logs and found another smaller cabin upstream. We used the old logs to add on to the new place, so there is a lot of personal history tied to our cabin in the woods. It is really my husband’s refuge, and I love paddling our ultra light Hornbeck canoes and biking on the Greenbrier Trail. My favorite thing is sitting out on the screened porch and

enjoying the sweet-smelling air and watching a great blue heron swoop low over the water. One of your teachers said to “Write about what haunts you.” Explain. The idea behind writing about what haunts you is that you will be dealing with a subject which interests or, maybe I should say, obsesses you so much you will be able to delve well below the surface and uncover some universal truth about life through the example of the lives of your characters. Your story will be authentic and true because it comes from someplace deep within. How can aspiring writers give themselves permission to do this? Eudora Welty once said, “The only true daring comes from within,” and I think this is what she was talking about. To write honestly about human emotions is difficult. At times it may feel like you are baring your soul to the world, but a story is a very intimate thing and you cannot hide behind artifice. You must tell the truth. It takes courage and stamina, but like any kind of artistic endeavor, it is only worth doing if you are willing to go as deep as necessary to create your best work.

wvliving.com 53



morgantown » shopping

dining • and so much more !


her itage | Celebrations

Sugar and Spice Salem’s Apple Butter Festival has been cooking up apple butter—and family-friendly fun—for three decades. written by

shay maunz witt ford

photographed by carla

56 wvl • fall 2014


Celebrations | her itage

T

here’s something special about apple butter. There’s the way it tastes, of course—sweet and spicy with just a hint of tang. And there’s the way it feels in your mouth—smooth and, well, buttery. But some would argue there’s even more to it than that. “When you think of apple butter you think of stuff that’s old, of another time,” says Lynn Ireland, who spends every summer making gallons of the stuff for the Salem Apple Butter Festival. “You think of people making it years and years ago. It’s neat.” Apple butter, at least at Salem’s Apple Butter Festival, is still made the way it was generations ago, when mountaineers were making it to help feed their families all winter—apple butter will keep in a pantry longer than applesauce, and a whole lot longer than ordinary apples. “It had to be way more work than what we do now,” Lynn says. “Just what we do is a 15-hour process, and they did that on top of their daily schedule.” In the modern era, apple butter making is still an intensive process, but it isn’t quite so mundane—especially in Salem, where the topping is celebrated annually with a four-day festival dedicated to its tasty goodness. Salem’s Apple Butter Festival, now in its 30th year, is held every October in Harrison County and draws people from across the state and region— in an average year 15,000 people attend. This

year’s festival October 2 to 5, 2014, boasts a schedule packed with events—there’s everything from a 5K to a car show to a parade—but the centerpiece, the festival’s most enduring tradition, is the apple butter. It’s made at the festival the old-fashioned way, in big, copper pots, bubbling over a wood fire. Making apple butter is simple—the recipe Lynn uses only has three ingredients—but it’s a time- and labor-intensive process that usually takes more than 12 hours. The butter sold at the festival is made by local organizations—each year there are three groups involved, each making their own version of apple butter. They sell the butter and keep the proceeds. Lynn is cooking with the Salem Rifle and Gun Club, which has been cooking apple butter for the festival since it started 30 years ago. It’s the club’s major annual fundraiser—they use the proceeds to pay the insurance at the gun range, and then give the rest to local charities. Most of the apple butter sold at the festival isn’t actually made there—though they also bottle and sell that butter on the spot—but instead in the months before. It has to be that way or there would never be enough. “They sell out every year,” says Gary Martin, the festival chair. “There are thousands and thousands of gallons that go out just in those four days.” This year Gary says the cooks are making 14

batches ahead of time—last year they made 12 and sold out. It starts with a 50-gallon copper kettle filled with applesauce (purists would start with fresh apples, but the health department says cooks have to start with a pasteurized product if they want to sell it to the public), and suspended over a wood fire. Over the course of the next several hours sugar is added, then spices, and the apples are cooked down into sweet brown goo—all while being stirred continually. “It’s an all day process,” Lynn says. The rifle club members cook their apple butter on weekends during the summer. They usually start at 5 a.m., and don’t wrap up until 7:30 that evening. “When you start out it’s pretty grueling,” Lynn says. “It’s busy, but once we get the kettles set up and get everything loaded and light the fire it kind of settles down a bit, because all you really need is one person to stir constantly. And then everybody grabs a chair, gathers ’round and starts telling their war stories. By the end of the day you’re just exhausted, but it is really fun to do and to listen to the stories everyone tells. I enjoy doing it.” In essence, the same kind of thing happens at the Apple Butter Festival, only on a larger scale. “It really feels like a reunion,” Gary says. “Family and friends and colleagues, they come from all over for this, and get to spend time in each other’s company.” wvliving.com 57


her itage | Celebrations clockwise

Try everything from barbecue to apple dumplings with ice cream at the Apple Butter Festival. The historic Salem depot provides shade

for visitors. The apple butter making tradition passes from one generation to the next. The parade features antique cars and traditional floats.

“Family and friends and colleagues, they come from all over for this, and get to spend time in each other’s company.” gary martin, festival chair

58 wvl • fall 2014

And even though the apple butter is the centerpiece, it’s an eclectic event. There’s a beauty pageant beforehand where judges select an Apple Butter Festival Queen, Teen Queen, and Junior Miss to promote the festival throughout the fall. The car show at Salem International University is popular, as is the 5K race. “There’s also a greased pig competition.” I make the queens get in there and chase the pig around,” Gary says. “It’s really a fun time.” Plus there are more than 100 booths filled with vendors, and none of them are selling alcohol. “We’re really committed to being a family-friendly event.” Gary has been involved with the festival for 24 years. He has a background in beauty

pageants and came to a committee meeting when someone asked him to help get the Apple Butter Festival Pageant off the ground. “The chairman had just retired,” he says. “So I left the meeting not only doing the pageant but in charge of the whole thing.” Over the years he’s seen the festival grow by leaps and bounds—when he first took over its budget was something like $4,000, and now it’s $34,000. “It’s been a real good ride,” he says. “People are committed to the festival, and it’s been rewarding to see it grow and prosper. At this point we’re out of space, so we can’t grow anymore. We’re just trying to get better each year.” salemapplebutterfestival.com


Apple Butter Bars 1 package spice cake mix 1 packet spiced cider drink mix 1¼ cups apple juice 1 cup apple butter ¼ cup vegetable oil 3 eggs ¾ cup chopped walnuts 1 package (8-ounce) cream cheese, softened ¼ cup packed brown sugar ¼ cup all-purpose flour 1. Preheat oven to 375º. Spray a 9-by-13-inch baking pan with cooking spray. 2. In a large bowl, combine dry cake mix and cider mix packets. Add apple juice, ¼ cup of the apple butter, oil, and eggs; beat with an electric mixer on low speed for 30 seconds. Scrape down sides of bowl; beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. Pour into prepared pan. Bake in preheated oven for 20 minutes. 3. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, the remaining ¾ cup apple butter, the brown sugar, and flour; beat with mixer on medium speed until smooth. 4. Remove pan from oven. Pour cream cheese mixture over partially baked cake. Sprinkle walnuts on top. Return to oven; bake for 20 to 25 minutes more. Cool in pan on a wire rack. Cut into bars. yield: 12 bars wvliving.com 59


her itage | In the Kitchen With

Richard Arbaugh

Citrus Braised Chicken with Fennel and Leeks

written by shay

maunz

when he was in his early 20s, someone handed Richard Arbaugh a copy of The Escoffier Cookbook, a classic tome of fine cooking. It intimidated him as much as inspired him. “I understood nothing,” he says. “Half the words were like gibberish.” He felt the same way when, around that time, he visited The Greenbrier, to see if a look at a professional kitchen would inspire him to go to culinary school. “When you’re in a grand kitchen like that and it’s not just one person prepping for 60 people, it’s teams working together to peel asparagus, just whittling away, you realize the process is a lot more involved than you thought,” he says. “I was enchanted with everything, the sounds and the smells.” Richard enrolled in the New England Culinary Institute and, when he graduated from the intensive program two years later, he was still a little intimidated by the kitchen at The Greenbrier, but he understood it better; his first job after school was as a line cook at that kitchen. Pretty soon, though, Richard realized he didn’t want to spend the next decade working on the line—he wanted to spend time in a smaller kitchen, where he could learn directly from a master. “I wanted to work elbow to elbow with the chef,” he says. This was 2004, around the time Robert Wong, the celebrated chef who served as executive chef of The Greenbrier for five years, was opening his own restaurant in Charleston—Bridge Road Bistro. He invited Richard to join him in Charleston, and Richard spent the next few years there— an invaluable part of his culinary education, he says. “It’s not necessarily technical things,” he says. “The biggest thing was his philosophy, his mentality and his drive. I think what I got most from him is that there’s no exception for seeking perfection.” Richard spent a few years at the Bistro, met his wife (also a chef), and moved away to become the executive sous-chef at The Hotel Roanoke in Virginia. But in 2007 the couple decided to 60 wvl • fall 2014

move back to Charleston and open their own restaurant. That restaurant, South Hills Market & Café, is across the street from the Bridge Road Bistro where Richard got his start—but that’s more in the spirit of camaraderie than competition. “Chef Wong and I had a good rapport—that wasn’t an issue.” At South Hills Market Richard serves an eclectic menu of dishes that are fine but not fussy, elegant without being prim. With each menu he practically dares diners to try something novel—something made with bone marrow or a dish featuring calf’s tongue—but there are also mainstream favorites like seared foie gras or short ribs. He’s miffed by the way some people stereotype West Virginia’s food culture—he balked recently when a chef who works in a big-city restaurant questioned Richard’s decision to put frogs’ legs on the menu. “There are a lot of foodies here,” he says. “There are a lot of awesome chefs in Appalachia, a lot of us who just aren’t looking to work on TV or to be famous. We just want to work on our craft.” Richard spends his days in the restaurant and his nights at home working on recipes and techniques—he can’t get enough of cooking. “You know how they say the carpenter always needs to fix something?” he says. “I think for a chef it’s the same—if you really love it, it becomes like an obsession. It's like cooking’s not just your job, it’s your mistress—it’s what you’re thinking about all the time.” He says all that time is worth it when he’s able to put a great new dish on his menu. “The thing about food is that it affects people,” Richard says. “With food you can take a bad day and make it a good day, or you can take a good day and make it great.” south hills market

1010 Bridge Road, Charleston, WV 25314 304.345.2585, southhillsmarket.com

1. Preheat oven to 350 º. 2. In a bowl mix all dry ingredients. Set a ¼ cup of mix aside. Peel onions and cut in a medium dice. Clean leeks by washing and removing sandy particles and cut tops and root ends off. Cut leeks in half and then cut into two-inch strips about one inch across. Clean fennel bulbs and remove leaves and stems. Cut the fennel bulbs in half. Cut them again lengthwise into half-inch strips. Set these ingredients aside. 3. In a frying pan add 1 cup of oil and place on medium high heat. 4. Dredge chicken thighs in the dry mix and add to the pan. Sear on each side for three minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from pan and drain grease. 5. Place frying pan back on the burner and add the remaining ½ cup oil. Place on medium low heat. 6. Now place onions, leeks, and fennel to pan and sauté for five to seven minutes. Do not brown the vegetables; cook them gently. 7. Dust the vegetables with the ¼ cup of the flour mixture that was set aside. Stir it into the vegetables until they are coated and cook for three minutes. 8. Add chicken stock and orange juice and simmer for five minutes. 9. Place the chicken in the liquid with the vegetables, cover, and place in oven for one hour. 10. When chicken has reached 165°(about 45 minutes) remove it from the pan, zest one orange into the sauce, and season to taste with salt and pepper. 11. Cut wedges from second orange and place around the plate. 12. Ladle sauce and vegetables on the plate, top with chicken thighs, and your meal is complete. yield: 4 servings

elizabeth roth

This West Virginian is serving up fine food that doesn’t intimidate at South Hills Market & Café in Charleston.

2 cups flour 2 ounces paprika 1 ounce black pepper 2 ounces salt 1 ounce garlic powder 2 yellow onions 1 leek 1 fennel bulb 1½ cups oil 4 chicken thighs 4 cups chicken stock 2 cups orange juice 2 navel oranges


EAT + DRINK + BE LO CA L |



A Spread to Bridge the

SEASONS A mix of seasonal flavors helps us bid adieu to summer and say hello to fall. written by katie

griffith · photographed by carla witt ford

it’s not QUite thanKsgiVing, BUt at harvest’s end we are ready to

feast anyway. Cue the bridge banquet—a mix of summer’s close and fall’s beginning—zucchini and lime, spaghetti squash and shrimp, roasted apples, sweet potato pancakes, and plum tortes. The flavor mixes may seem unusual, but to your taste buds and belly they’re as satisfying as Grandma’s cornbread and the comfort foods of your childhood.


Eggplant and Zucchini Gratin ½ cup olive oil 1 large or 2 medium eggplants 1 tablespoon Herbes de Provence 1 teaspoon salt 2 medium zucchini, about 1 pound 3 or 4 ripe tomatoes, about 1 pound ½ teaspoon freshly ground pepper for breadcrumb topping ½ cup fresh breadcrumbs ⅓ cup Parmesan cheese, grated preparing the vegetables: 1. Arrange the rack on the lower-middle level of the oven and preheat to 400°. 2. Coat a baking sheet generously with ⅓ cup of the olive oil. 3. Trim ends from eggplant and slice on the diagonal into ovals ½-inch thick. 4. Lay the slices flat on the sheet, pressing lightly to coat with oil and turn them over. 5. Arrange the slices, oiled side up, in a single layer. Combine ½ teaspoon of salt with ½ teaspoon of Herbes de Provence and sprinkle slices with mixture. 6. Bake for about 15 minutes until the eggplant slices are soft and somewhat shriveled. 7. Trim the ends off the zucchini and cut lengthwise into ¼-inch thick slices. 64 wvl • fall 2014

8. Salt the zucchini and let it sit for about 15 minutes then wipe the salt and moisture off— otherwise your casserole will be too watery. 9. Core the tomatoes and cut into slices ¼-inch thick. Spread the slices and sprinkle lightly with ¼ teaspoon freshly ground pepper. assembling the gratin: 1. Oil baking dish well with 1 teaspoon olive oil and sprinkle a teaspoon of the dried herbs across the bottom of the pan. 2. Layer the vegetables side by side in the pan, laying one or two eggplant slices lengthwise against a narrow side of the dish. Arrange a long slice or two of zucchini in front of the eggplant, then place 2 or 3 tomato slices in front of the zucchini. Repeat until the pan is full of alternating rows of eggplant, zucchini, and tomatoes. topping and baking: 1. Mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and a teaspoon of Herbes de Provence in a bowl. 2. Add a tablespoon of olive oil, then toss with hands to coat the crumbs while keeping them loose. Sprinkle crumb mixture evenly over the vegetables. Drizzle with remaining oil. 3. Place dish in center of oven and bake for 40 minutes until vegetables are soft, the juices are bubbling, and the top is a deep golden brown.

Roasted Apples and Parsnips 2 pounds parsnips, peeled and cut into ½-inch slices 2 Gala apples, cored and diced into large pieces 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces 1 tablespoon finely grated orange zest, plus 1 tablespoon juice ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon Coarse salt, to taste 1. Preheat oven to 450°. Cover a baking sheet with parchment paper. Combine parsnips and apples in a bowl. Place on baking sheet and dot with butter. Roast until parsnips and apples are tender and golden, about 30 minutes, stirring halfway through. Toss with orange zest, orange juice, and cinnamon; season with salt to taste.

Herbes de Provence

it’s a fancy name for the herb mixes used in traditional cooking the Provence region of southeastern France. the blend of herbs such as savory, marjoram, rosemary, thyme, and oregano add a light, aromatic flavor to your dishes. they’re especially tasty on grilled foods and in vegetable stews.


Food | her itage

Plum Torte 1 cup all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder Pinch of salt 1 cup granulated sugar, plus 1 to 2 tablespoons (depending on sweetness of plums) 1 stick unsalted butter, softened 2 large eggs 12 small purple Italian plums, halved and pitted 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice 2 teaspoons cinnamon 1. Heat oven to 350°. Sift or whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. In a larger bowl cream butter and sugar together with an electric mixer until fluffy and light in color. Add the eggs one at a time, scraping the sides of the bowl. Then add dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. 2. Spoon batter into a slightly greased 9-inch springform pan and smooth the top. Arrange the plums, skin side up, across the top of batter. Sprinkle the top with lemon juice, then cinnamon, and then remaining sugar. 3. Bake until cake is golden and a toothpick inserted in center of the cake comes out free of batter—but not plum juice—about 45 to 50 minutes. Cool on rack. Serve at room temperature. wvliving.com 65


her itage | Food

66 wvl • fall 2014


Food | her itage

Acorn Squash Soup Bowls 2 acorn squash ½ cup heavy cream 1 tablespoon mascarpone cheese 1 teaspoon nutmeg 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated 1. Preheat oven to 375°. Cut tops off of acorn squash for 2 large servings, or cut in half for 4 smaller servings. Set squash bowls on a muffin tin or in a loaf pan on baking sheet. 2. Spoon out insides of squash and separate out seeds. Put squash insides, heavy cream, and mascarpone cheese into a food processor to combine. Season with nutmeg. After combining ingredients pour into a small saucepan and bring to a simmer. 3. Pour soup into squash bowls and bake for 40 minutes, or until bowls are soft. Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and browned. 4. Serve immediately. yield: 2 to 4 servings

Sautéed Zucchini with Chorizo, Cilantro, and Lime 1 teaspoon olive oil 4 ounces Spanish chorizo 4 medium zucchini, cut into ¾-inch cubes 1 lime, zested and juiced ½ cup loosely packed cilantro, roughly chopped Salt, to taste 1. Heat the olive oil over medium-low heat in a large skillet and add the chorizo. Cook for 5 minutes until the fat has rendered out and the chorizo is slightly crisp. Transfer chorizo to a plate, leaving oil in pan. 2. Add the cubed zucchini to the hot skillet and increase the heat to medium. Sauté the zucchini, tossing occasionally, until browned and soft, about 10 minutes. Stir in the lime juice, zest, cilantro, and cooked chorizo. Season to taste with salt and serve. yield: 4 servings

Gruyere Croutons 2 tablespoons butter 1 French baguette, sliced on a diagonal into 24 ½-inch pieces 1 cup Gruyere cheese, grated 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, minced 1 teaspoon fresh sage, minced 1. Preheat broiler to high. Butter one side of each slice of bread. Arrange butter side up on baking sheet. Broil until golden, about 1 minute. Turn bread over and top with cheese, thyme, and sage. Add salt and pepper to taste. Return to broiler until cheese melts, about 1 minute. Serve with soup.

Roasted Spaghetti Squash with Shrimp Pasta 1 spaghetti squash (about 4 pounds), halved lengthwise and seeded 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, plus 1 teaspoon 10 jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined 1 tablespoon butter, room temperature 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped 1 purple onion, chopped ½ teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, finely chopped

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice 1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt Freshly ground pepper, to taste ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (about 2½ ounces) 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, roughly chopped 1. Preheat oven to 375°. Place squash flat side up in a baking sheet. Brush the sides and middle sections with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Roast until tender, about 45 minutes. Let cool. 2. Scrape squash with a fork to remove flesh in long strands. Place in a large bowl and set aside. 3. Coat shrimp with 1 teaspoon oil and season with salt and pepper. Marinate shrimp for at least 10 minutes. 4. Heat a frying pan on medium heat. Cook shrimp until tender and set aside. 5. Melt the butter in the frying pan on medium heat. Toss in garlic and onion to cook until golden brown or tender, about 5 to 7 minutes. Add rosemary and thyme. Combine and stir until aromatic. Add spaghetti squash, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Combine and continue stirring. Cook for another 3 minutes. Add shrimp and any cooking juices. Toss and combine. Remove from heat immediately. Sprinkle with Parmesan. 6. Garnish with parsley and serve with lemon wedges. yield: 4 servings

Sweet Potato Pancakes 1½ cups sifted all-purpose flour 3½ teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg 1¼ cups mashed cooked sweet potatoes 2 eggs, beaten 1½ cups milk ¼ cup butter, melted 1. Sift dry ingredients into a mixing bowl. Combine remaining ingredients in a second bowl and add to flour mixture, stirring just until dry ingredients are moistened. Drop batter by tablespoons onto hot skillet and fry, turning once, until browned on both sides. yield: 24 pancakes

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home marketplace


home marketplace


Living In

Point Pleasant This city on the Ohio River is no ghost town—it’s alive with history and unique shopping and arts. written by Laura Wilcox Rote · photographed by Elizabeth Roth


Y

ou may think you know all about Point Pleasant—home of the mysterious Mothman, the town sitting quietly at the confluence of the Ohio and Kanawha rivers in Mason County, halfway between Parkersburg and Huntington. But what has been, in the past, an economically depressed city of less than 5,000 people is coming back to life. A wealth of history exists in Point Pleasant—dating back to the American Revolution—and in recent years locals have been looking more toward the future. A 10-year economic development project wraps up in 2014, and signs of change are abundant. Enthusiasm pours from Charles Humphreys, the executive director of Main Street Point Pleasant. “What a great time to live in Point Pleasant,” he says. “Our town is in the middle of revitalization—using the past in an innovative way to build a foundation for the future.” Perhaps one of the clearest indicators of the city’s rebirth is what Charles calls “The Amazing Riverfront Park,” more commonly known as Point Pleasant Riverfront Park, at the Fourth Street entrance of the floodwall. There you’ll find West Virginia’s largest outdoor arts and history presentation—a half-mile of murals and statues along the Ohio River. “Every time I take somebody there they say, ‘This is amazing.’ We’re putting a $150,000 sound system in the whole half-mile. It’s going to be quite an attraction.” The state-of-the-art speakers are part of the $10 million project that began more than 10 years ago. From those speakers you’ll hear arrows whizzing through the air and the words of Chief Cornstalk or, in winter, holiday music. The large floodwall mural depicts the Battle of Point Pleasant, a bloody war between the Native Americans and early Americans that many believe to be the first of the American Revolution. The riverfront area has been popular since the park was built in the 2003. It has a 900-foot dock, 800-seat amphitheater, 100-seat pavilion, and a walking trail, to name a few of its perks. “We can do anything back here,” Charles says. “That’s why it’s amazing. And we’ve got a beautiful background. Not everyone has the Ohio River in the background.” An arch with the park’s new name is scheduled to go up at the park’s entrance, and tram rides are already offered. Charles has lived in Point Pleasant for 14 years and says the city looks vastly different today. Many people remember the deadly collapse of the Silver Bridge in 1967. For those who weren’t around then, the 2002 film The Mothman Prophecies was based, at least in part, on events from Point Pleasant in the 1960s, when more than 100 Mothman sightings and supernatural events were reported and believed by many to be related to the bridge collapse. wvliving.com 71


“We are one hour from Huntington, Charleston, Chillicothe, Ohio, and Parkersburg,” says Charles Humphreys, executive director at Main Street Point Pleasant. “We’re in a really good, beautiful location here on the river.”

Over the years a lot seemed to work against the small river town, Charles says. “Point Pleasant had been hit by the bridge falling. Four Walmarts went in within 30 minutes of each other, and all kinds of economic problems like most little towns have happened,” he says. “We were basically on the bottom.” By the early 2000s, Main Street was nearly empty. Today very few storefronts are vacant. “We’re one of the popular little communities on the Ohio now, and I think in the near future we will be one of the top ones,” Charles says. Already Point Pleasant is a popular stop on the river for sternwheelers—big, colorful boats bringing families up and down the Ohio for entertainment.

Shop, Eat, Sleep

You’ll find unique shopping and dining downtown these days, too. A favorite stop, The Mason Jar offers 20,000 square feet and two floors of antiques, crafts, and even ice cream on Main Street. “The Mason Jar is a big draw,” Charles says. “It’s one of the best antique stores in the state.” Across the street, The Gallery at 409 is a great way to spend an afternoon. The nonprofit art gallery and museum features local artists’ work as well as a large mural in the back room. Off of the gallery is an almost hidden space— the Red Parrot Café, a bar that connects the museum with The Historic Lowe Hotel next door. The Lowe is a four-story, family-run inn that has run continuously as a hotel since 1901; the Finley family has operated it since 72 wvl • fall 2014

1990. There, guests step back in time when they enter the large, Federal-style building—complete with rococo trim, marble staircase, and Tiffany stained glass windows—all while enjoying the modern conveniences of today. Owner Mary Ruth Finley shows off the ballroom and remarks on the mezzanine—originally known as the writing room. “People socialized and came here to write letters,” she says. All of the guest rooms are different and seem to have stories all their own, too. Then there are old favorites like Harris Steakhouse, open since the late 1960s. The restaurant also became famous for its role in The Mothman Prophecies, as the diner in the film was modeled after the steakhouse. The Iron Gate Grille on Main Street takes up nearly half a city block with not one but two three-story buildings and a patio and yard that can be rented for special events. At the grill you can enjoy a pub-style atmosphere with nice big booths and options like burgers or an open face prime rib sandwich. Across the patio in the adjacent Main House, you can enjoy more fine options like spaghetti and meatballs in a casual setting that takes you back in time with old photos on the walls, grand chandeliers, creaky wooden staircases, and fireplaces in each room. But there are also new businesses coming to town all the time, like Decor Corner on Main Street, offering up everything from wallpaper and lamps to floral arrangements. In late summer, Mexican restaurant Rio Bravo was also on its way to downtown.


clockwise The

Historic Lowe Hotel dates back to 1901. History unfolds with a massive mural and statues along the river. The Mothman

is everywhere—from this statue to The Iron Gate Grille sandwich with olive eyes, which is a treat with jalapeño peppers “ if you want him meaner,” Charles

says. The Mason Jar overflows with antiques, while you could spend all day at Point Pleasant River Museum.

wvliving.com 73


decades later it fell into disrepair and sat vacant. In 1990 the building was donated to the city for the purpose of creating a river museum. After more than a decade of hard work by volunteers and efforts to secure funding, the museum opened in 2003. “We started out $45 in the hole. We had no money and an empty building,” Charles recalls. “This used to be the ugliest building on Main Street.” Now when visitors walk through the door they are struck by the sheer beauty and scope of the museum. There’s an aquarium with fish from local waters, a beautiful steamboat mural, a massive steam whistle, and a model of the Silver Bridge, among other tributes to the river. Upstairs is even more history as well as a state-of-the-art pilot house simulator that trains people to navigate boats. “There’s no place else in West Virginia that has this,” says Museum Director Jack Fowler as he takes the wheel to demonstrate what it looks like to drive a speedboat through San Francisco or a towboat in Paducah, Kentucky. The simulator room has giant TV screens and many computers—it’s a big hit with school groups. The area is also home to the state’s largest farm museum. Just off the beaten path, the West Virginia State Farm Museum has everything from early farmhouses and log cabins to a church and an operational 19th century blacksmith shop. It’s a beautiful stop in Mason County whether you want to quickly stretch your legs or spend the whole day exploring the grounds.

More History

clockwise The

West Virginia State Farm Museum brings the old days back to life. The Mansion House at Tu-EndieWei State Park was built in the 1790s. The Mothman Museum downtown is a popular stop for tourists.

74 wvl • fall 2014

Culture

You might be surprised by the many museums in Point Pleasant. Perhaps the most popular is the Mothman Museum, moving across the street in summer to be closer to the ominous Mothman statue itself. The Mothman fascinates people from all over the world, and the museum is open from noon to 5 p.m. every day for curious travelers. The museum also provides bus tours, both during the annual Mothman Festival and year-round. This year the festival will take place September 20 to 21 and is expected to draw thousands for tours to the TNT area—the site of a former World War II munitions plant in Point Pleasant where Mothman sightings are said to have occurred. “I was one of the kids out there chasing him,” says Jeff Wamsley, lifelong resident and owner of the museum, looking back on growing up near the site. “Everybody would go to the TNT area. It was a good way to get a date—like lovers’ lane.” The festival also includes a 5K, guest speakers, and eyewitness accounts, plus food, art, and music. Also downtown, the Point Pleasant River Museum is a success story. The redbrick building on First and Main streets housed a mercantile business in 1854, but many

No visit would be complete without walking the grounds of Tu-Endie-Wei State Park. You’ll know you’ve arrived by the 85-foot granite obelisk. The park marks the site of the 1774 Battle of Point Pleasant at the junction of the Ohio and Kanawha rivers, and the name Tu-Endie-Wei means “point between two waters.” Also at the park is the remarkable Mansion House, a restored 1796 tavern and inn that now serves as a museum. Every October visitors can also enjoy the Battle Days Festival at the state park, complete with parade, reenactment, food, and live entertainment. Reenactments often take place at Krodel Park, just off of State Route 2, where you can fish, camp, picnic, or simply relax by the 22-acre lake. The park is also home to Fort Randolph, a 1700s replica fort. Back downtown, a more recent era of history is preserved at the State Theater, an Art Moderne-style theater opened on Main Street in 1942. The 700-seat theater is open now only for special events. Main Street Point Pleasant also has high hopes for the A.F. Kisar House and Memorial Gardens. The three-story house on Third Street was built in the late 1890s and is in the process of being restored as a museum showcasing early architecture. The future is bright for this river town. Main Street Point Pleasant continues to work on multiple projects— from basic beautification to bringing in more bus tours. “There’s a lot of color on Main Street now,” Charles says. “When we get everything done here, Point Pleasant is going to the be the hottest town on the Ohio River.”



T S E B

The

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WEST V IRGINIA AWAR DS

OF

BEST HE

AWARDS

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2014

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Competition is heating up. For the second year in a row, we asked our readers for their thoughts on everything from the best pastries and most mouth-watering pizza to the most beautiful view and the best place to raise kids. While some of the winners may surprise you, others are no-brainers. Either way, we encourage you to support these local people, places, and things. Here are the results.

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SHOPPING CENTER

Charleston Town Center More than 130 stores on three floors, the Charleston Town Center is one of 2 the largest indoor shopping centers TIME in the East. Central to Charleston and adjacent to many more shopping and dining options in the area, the mall has been chosen two years in a row as West Virginia’s favorite spot to shop. 3000 Charleston Town Center, Charleston 304.345.9525, charlestontowncenter.com BED-AND-BREAKFAST

The Inn at Lost River PLACE TO HIKE

Coopers Rock State Forest Reportedly named for a fugitive who was a cooper, or barrel maker, by trade hiding from authorities, Coopers Rock State Forest awes visitors year after year with its steep climbs and panoramic views. Native plants and animals within the forest attract thousands of bird watchers, biologists, and nature lovers each year. The forest becomes a destination in summer and fall for locals to escape to the mountains for an afternoon in the outdoors. Coopers Rock State Forest is located just outside of Morgantown and Bruceton Mills and offers 50 miles of designated trails of varying lengths over 13,000 acres, as well as one of the most photographed views in the state. “People love our scenic overlooks and beauty, and our well maintained trails,” says Superintendent Adam McKeown. Nearly 200,000 people visit each year. “It’s a really busy place. The Raven Rock Trail is a favorite. It takes you out to an overlook area that is not as highly used as our main overlook. Rock City Trail is also a favorite.” 304.594.1561, coopersrockstateforest.com

In the heart of Lost River Valley sits a beautiful white clapboard farmhouse with a tin roof. Dating back to the 1870s, The Inn at Lost River is an old home that invites visitors to come in and relax, even as innkeeper Ted Harvey meets you at the door. The inn offers fine dining, immaculate rooms, expansive grounds to explore, and a screened-in summerhouse to kick back and relax all afternoon. 7015 State Road 259, Lost River 304.897.7000, theinnatlostriver.com LOCAL BAND

The Hillbilly Gypsies This group of old friends has been playing bluegrass for more than a decade after getting its start at a Morgantown brewing company. Now the group is not only a West Virginia favorite, but its members are gaining international respect, too. You’ll find them playing all over Morgantown, but also in Harpers Ferry, Lost Creek, and neighboring states this fall. thehillbillygypsies.com RUNNERS UP

SUMMER GETAWAY

Summersville Lake

LOCAL TV NEWS

WSAZ

For more than 60 years this 2 news company in Huntington TIME and Charleston has been among the first on the scene, bringing viewers breaking news and asking the tough questions, broadcasting to West Virginia, Kentucky, and Ohio. wsaz.com

Rent a pontoon boat, visit the lighthouse, or just spend a day lounging in the sand. Summersville Lake offers up magnificent scenery that stretches across 60 miles of shoreline. summersvillecvb.com RUNNER UP

Canaan Valley canaanvalley.org

The Davisson Brothers Band Originating in Clarksburg, The Davisson Brothers Band puts its own spin on rock, country, and bluegrass and has concerts scheduled across the state and beyond this fall. davissonbrothersband.com

The Wild Rumpus This Fayetteville band calls its sound “Appalachian stompgrass,” and you’ll certainly be stompin’ your feet to these sounds. thewildrumpus.com wvliving.com 77


COFFEEHOUSE

LOCAL RADIO STATION

Moxxee

Read the rave reviews on Yelp or Urbanspoon and you’ll realize that the coffee at Moxxee isn’t just good, it’s really good. Familiarize yourself with the company’s logo before heading out for a cup, because it’s the only indicator that you’re in the right place—except for the sumptuous smell of something delicious brewing. The modern, industrialchic atmosphere gives the small space an urban appeal, and simple decor keeps the focus on the good stuff: that famous coffee. Lattes, macchiatos, cappuccinos, teas, and baked goods round out the menu. 301 Morris Street, Charleston 304.344.8810, moxxeecoffee.com

BAKERY

WVAQ

WVAQ is a two-time winner of Best 2 Local Radio TIME Station in the Best of West Virginia awards and three-time winner of Best Local Radio Station in the Best of Morgantown awards in Morgantown magazine. Tune in to 101.9 when you’re in Morgantown to hear for yourself. wvaq.com

ICE CREAM

Ellen’s Homemade Ice Cream For the second year in a row, readers agree that Ellen’s Homemade Ice Cream is the best in the state. Best flavor is still too difficult to decide. 2 TIME 225 Capitol Street Charleston, 304.343.6488 ellensicecream.com

HOT DOG

Spring Hill Pastry Shop

Hillbilly Hot Dogs

Spring Hill Pastry Shop might not look like much, but step inside and you’ll see why it’s consistently voted the best in the state. Cases filled with tasty and incredibly fresh baked goods empty quickly as people fill the small storefront. The famous cream-filled hot dog pastry is baked fresh daily, and don’t worry, its similarity to an actual hot dog is in appearance only. The business has been family-owned and -operated since it opened in 1948 in the very same location as today. 600 Chestnut Street, Spring Hill 304.768.7397, springhillpastry.com

Hillbilly Hot Dogs takes destination 2 dining to a new level. Who doesn’t TIME want to eat a giant hot dog from the seat of an old school bus? Try the 15-inch Home Wrecker. 6951 Ohio River Road, Lesage 304.762.2458, 1501 3rd Avenue, Huntington 304.522.0044 hillbillyhotdogs.com

LOCAL PAPER

The Charleston Gazette

This Charleston-based daily newspaper serves local and national news, weather, and sports to over 40,000 households. The newspaper 2 was founded in 1873 and is one of the TIME few independent, family-owned and -operated newspapers still operating in the United States. wvgazette.com

BRUNCH

Bluegrass Kitchen Bluegrass Kitchen serves 2 up comfort food using local TIME ingredients with a modern twist. Try the delicious Deep-Dish Quiche du jour or homemade biscuits with peppered gravy. You’ll also find plenty of vegetarian options. 1600 Washington Street East Charleston, 304.346.2871 bluegrasswv.com

MAIN STREET

Washington Street, Lewisburg With shops, restaurants, galleries, a green space, and frequent events, Lewisburg’s Washington Street is a busy place for a town of around 3,000. Stroll the sidewalk during First Fridays After Five, an event held on the evening of the first Friday of each month, to see the street truly come alive. 78 wvl • fall 2014

ANTIQUE STORE

Stray Dog Antiques

Stray Dog Antiques is two floors of vintage heaven. The shop offers one-of-a-kind, affordable finds like books, fabrics, clothing, furniture, jewelry, and fine art for the 2 TIME cultured eye. 219 Hale Street, Charleston 304.346.1534, straydogantiques.com

SEAFOOD

Tidewater Grill

Tidewater serves up the best seafood in the state. 1060 Charleston Town Center Charleston 304.345.2620 tidewatergrillrestaurant.com 2

TIME


AUTHOR

ROMANTIC GETAWAY & GOLF COURSE & RESORT & SPA

Homer Hickam

The Greenbrier

“America’s Resort” can’t be beat. Renowned restaurants, 37 stores and boutiques, and a 103,000-square-foot casino—not 2 to mention the world-class golfing TIME and a historic mineral spa—offer something for everyone and every getaway. The historic charm and opulent style of The Greenbrier have been thrilling guests for centuries, including more than a few American presidents. Stay in a cozy cottage or deluxe suite, or settle in for the long haul and buy a homesite on the property. The Greenbrier pulls awards in multiple categories. 300 West Main Street, White Sulphur Springs 855.453.4858, greenbrier.com

MEN’S CLOTHING

Daniel’s

The Morgantown-based men’s shop provides the finest selection of men’s formal wear for any occasion. 2908 University Avenue, Morgantown 304.296.7202, danielsofwv.com

ARTIST

Brett Kern Brett Kern has found his niche. His ceramic dinosaurs that look like balloons have made him arguably the most popular artist in the state. What is it about those lovable dinos that’s so appealing? Perhaps it’s the whimsical attitude they embody, or the skill with which they’re rendered. Whatever it is, Brett’s childhood nostalgia has ignited a fervor of Jurassic proportions for his playful sculptures. brettkernart.com

TEAROOM

The original Rocket Boy—Homer Hickam is a beloved West Virginia author who climbed to national fame with his memoir, Rocket Boys, telling the tale of an aspiring rocket scientist growing up in the coalfields of southern West Virginia. Now retired from his work at NASA, Homer writes young adult novels encouraging the exploration of science, math, and technology for young people. homerhickam.com

The Tea Shoppe With more than 100 types of tea and herbals, The Tea Shoppe in Morgantown takes pride in the eclectic goods on its shelves. “A lot of tearooms tend to have very limited hours and a very limited menu. We made the decision when I bought the business that we needed to do more than that and have an expanded menu,” says Lisa Biafore, owner of The Tea Shoppe. This expanded menu not only includes tea, but it also offers up specialty quiche, soups, sandwiches, and scrumptious scones. Opening the doors to customers in March 2013 at The Shoppes at Seneca Center, Lisa couldn’t have chosen a more perfect spot to order a cup of tea. “The whole place is quaint. It sits in a historical building, so it’s got a lot of character,” Lisa says. 709 Beechurst Avenue, Morgantown 304.413.0890, theteashoppewv.com

LOCAL PHARMACY

MAYOR

Steve Williams Huntington Mayor Steve Williams has already made quite a name for himself. The Cabell County native has a handful of success stories under his belt, from the settlement of a massive lawsuit that was draining the city financially and the creation of a water quality board to, among other things, dealing with Huntington’s longstanding flooding problem. And solutions like those are inspiring the community to seek even more positive change. “The entire community has embraced the notion that we expect nothing but excellence, that we’re going to set a standard that others around the country are going to aspire to,” Williams says. “People are starting to realize we can accomplish anything.” cityofhuntington.com

CHEF

Fruth Pharmacy

Dale Hawkins

Driving around the southwestern region of West Virginia, you may see more Fruth Pharmacy locations than some of the chain pharmacy stores you’re used to seeing on every corner. This family-owned business began with its first location in Point Pleasant in the 1950s and grew over the decades to include locations in Huntington, Milton, Charleston, and nearby Ohio. Today there are dozens of Fruth Pharmacy stores in West Virginia and Ohio, and the hometown pharmacy continues to be based in Point Pleasant. fruthpharmacy.com

This favorite West Virginia chef grew up in Rock Cave but traveled the country to learn his culinary craft. Dale Hawkins 2 is now a household name around TIME much of the state, having coined the term New Appalachian Fare— using local ingredients in global dishes with a regional flair. At Fish Hawk Acres, a family of regional farms, he’s dedicated himself to providing a strong network of community-supported agriculture and food. He’s also a popular caterer. 1 Fish Hawk Drive, Rock Cave 304.924.9880, wvfishhawkacres.com wvliving.com 79


MUSIC VENUE

JoHn petretic

Pinky’s Farm

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE COMPANY

Adventures on the Gorge The Adventures on the Gorge campus is the cozy base for some heart-pumping action. White water rafting, zip-lining, and rock climbing are just a few of the unforgettable activities. 219 Chestnutburg Road, Lansing 855.379.8738, adventuresonthegorge.com RUNNER-UP

ACE Adventure Resort In the heart of the New River Gorge, ACE Adventure Resort offers rafting, lodging, and dining for an east getaway. 1 Concho Road, Minden 304.469.2651, aceraft.com

Every year a small community in southern West Virginia bursts to life with good vibrations as the Pink Moon Festival dazzles Pinky’s Farm. Huge neon stick people, a dragon, and a fluorescent dome all call the farm home during this festival. Pinky’s Farm is a unique venue with more to offer than your average club or pavilion. The farm stretches across the scenic valley for miles, creating a natural amphitheater in a rural setting. “It’s very intimate. Pinky’s Farm is designed specifically for hospitality,” says Seth Abramson, coowner of the venue. The farm belonged to Seth’s mother, Pinky Testerman, until she passed away in an ATV accident in 2006. To pay tribute to the times he spent with his mother—helping with musical productions at the local Rock Camp Store— Seth created the Pink Moon Festival in 2009. It, in turn, gave birth to the venue, which knows no musical bounds. The sixth annual Pink Moon Festival takes place September 11 to 15, 2014. “There is going to be a touch of everything. All I can say is that it is going to be really, really good,” Seth says. 641 Willow Bend Road, Lindside 304.832.6223, rockcampproductions.com

FINE DINING

TIME

hospitality. Four dining rooms beautifully adorned with carved woodwork greet customers as waiters and waitresses bring out steaming plates of Mediterranean and Italian fare. Dishes like Shellfish Pescatore (shrimp, clams, mussels, and calamari in a white wine and tomato seafood broth) and the scrumptious Chicken San Marino (grilled free range chicken breast stuffed with fontina cheese and prosciutto ham served with a creamy white mushroom marsala sauce over penne pasta) will surely grab your loyalty for years to come. 616 Main Street, Sutton 304.765.2913, cafeciminocountryinn.com 80 wvl • fall 2014

pinkY'S fArM

Café Cimino Country Inn On the banks of the Elk River, Café Cimino Country Inn offers up world-class 2 dining and genuine southern

REAL ESTATE AGENCY

Old Colony

With nine offices in the state, Old Colony Realtors have been providing home buying and commercial real estate expertise since 1944. Hundreds of sales associates serve majors areas in West Virginia, including Charleston, Hurricane, Huntington, Beckley, Parkersburg, Morgantown, Ripley, as well as parts of Kentucky and Ohio. oldcolony.com


AMpd pHotogrApHY

“Healthy Beautiful Skin Is Our Specialty”

FESTIVAL

FestivAll

Every June the city of Charleston is transformed into a work of art. The many day festival includes art exhibits, live music, dance performances, fi lm viewings, and more each year. 2 FestivALL celebrated its 10th TIME anniversary in 2014. festivallcharleston.com

Forest Festival forestfestival.com

Call for Appointment 304.733.3333 304.302.5054

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6007 U.S. Rt. 60 E., Suite 130 Barboursville, WV 25504 Phone: 304.733.3333 or 304.302.5054. Fax: 304.733.3666 dramyvaughan.com

ITALIAN

Muriale’s Italian Restaurant The only problem you’ll have here is finding a parking spot. Muriale’s continues 2 TIME to delight customers from across the state with its bold red sauce, lasagna, and meatballs. With 45 years of experience, it’s no wonder people flock to Fairmont for the classic Italian dishes and caring service that make this restaurant a step ahead of the rest. 1742 Fairmont Avenue, Fairmont 304.363.3190, murialesrestaurant.com

HOSPITAL

Ruby Memorial Hospital West Virginia University Hospitals’ largest facility, Ruby Memorial Hospital, recently celebrated its 25th anniversary 2 serving the Mountain State. Ruby TIME Memorial cares for hundreds of patients across a variety of medical areas, in addition to its mission of training new medical staff and contributing to the body of medical research. 1 Medical Center Drive, Morgantown wvuhealthcare.com wvliving.com 81


BAR

Apothecary Ale House & Café This small beer garden in Morgantown has a beer list to rival beer garden giants across the East Coast. With local brewers on tap and bottles of the finest craft beers lining its shelves, you’re bound to find something that pleases. A small food menu makes sure you have something other than the lining of your stomach to soak up all that alcohol, too. The bar was expanding in late summer 2014. 227 Chestnut Street Morgantown, 304.291.2291

LOCAL NONPROFIT

Friends of the Cheat Twenty years ago the Cheat River running through parts of northern West Virginia was deemed one of the nation’s most endangered waterways. Today it draws hundreds of visitors to its waters to swim, fish, raft, and enjoy its scenery. Much of the work to clean up the Cheat can be attributed to Friends of the Cheat, a local nonprofit started 20 years ago around a kitchen table and a jar of money. Since then Friends of the Cheat has grown to employ a full-time staff of seven with a budget of $1.7 million—and the river that was dead is alive again. “It feels good,” says Amanda Pitzer, executive director. “We have dedicated staff, we have board members who have spent years and years of their lives advocating. The results speak for themselves. The river has fish in it from headwater to mouth. People come year after year and their impressions of the river have changed.” cheat.org

PARADE

Every third week of May, the air in Buckhannon is sweet with the smell of strawberries. Since 1936 residents all over the state have trekked to Buckhannon to honor the state’s hardworking strawberry growers as part of the West Virginia Strawberry Festival. Don’t forget to check out the unique horse and carriage parade along with the grand feature parade. 304.472.9036 wvstrawberryfestival.com 82 wvl • fall 2014

upshur county cvb

Strawberry Festival


HOTEL

GIFT SHOP & VISITORS’ CENTER

Blennerhassett Hotel The Blennerhassett Hotel opened in 1889 in downtown Parkersburg for the oil and gas industry’s elite. When the local Ross family purchased the hotel and remodeled it in the early 2000s, the Blennerhassett began to typify modern elegance and period luxury. Today it’s still a businessman’s hotel, but the Blennerhassett’s unique styling and welcoming atmosphere draw visitors for weddings, weekend getaways, and local special events as well as corporate meetings. Each of the hotel’s 89 rooms is different with whirlpool tubs, spa-grade showers, granite countertops, walk-in closets, and Keurig coffee makers. The nearby Blennerhassett Island, a historical state park for which the hotel is named, is a great draw for visitors, as are the many dining and entertainment options provided by the hotel. “When you are a guest at The Blennerhassett Hotel, you become a part of our history,” says Nicole Slattery, marketing manager. “We take pride in our legendary hospitality and the service for which we are known.” 320 Market Street, Parkersburg, 304.422.3131, theblennerhassett.com

Tamarack

The slogan for the Tamarack says it all: “The Best of West Virginia.” Serving as the state’s premier 2 TIME shopping destination and visitors’ center, the distinctive peaked red roof and attractively landscaped grounds draw half a million visitors annually to browse among the visually dazzling Appalachian arts and pleasing sounds. 1 Tamarack Park, Beckley 304.256.6843, tamarackwv.com

PIZZA

Pies & Pints With locations across the state almost everyone can enjoy the menu of 2 this West Virginia institution. TIME Creative pizzas with toppings like gorgonzola and grapes— one of our favorites—and one of the best beer selections we’ve seen have made Pies & Pints a crowd favorite. 222 Capitol Street, Charleston 219 West Maple Avenue, Fayetteville 1002 Suncrest Towne Centre Morgantown, piesandpints.net

BOOKSTORE

Taylor Books Whether you’re looking for a good read, a cup of coffee, or a little quiet 2 TIME time surrounded by local art, Taylor Books is the place to be. Shelves of books and magazines line the walls, paintings and pottery fi ll the gallery next door, and then there’s the coffee counter, complete with comfortable seating next to a wide window with a good view. There’s frequently live music on the weekends, and there’s free WiFi all of the time. Could it get any better? 226 Capitol Street, Charleston 304.342.1461, taylorbooks.com

STATE PARK

Blackwater Falls State Park About two miles southeast of Davis is one of West Virginia’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Within the 2,500 acres 2 TIME of the Blackwater Falls State Park, the Blackwater River cascades down a 63-foot drop to continue on its journey through the rugged Blackwater Canyon. This beauty is one of the most photographed sites in West Virginia. 1584 Blackwater Lodge Road, Davis 304.259.5216, blackwaterfalls.com

BEST WINERY

Forks of Cheat

BODY OF WATER

Summersville Lake

2981 Summersville Lake Road Summersville, 304.872.3412

Another year, another win. West Virginians love Forks of Cheat Winery for both its fragrant wines and its ideal space 2 in the rolling hills outside of Morgan- TIME town. After a free tasting, settle down on the outdoor patio overlooking those bucolic hills with a bottle of wine and a plate of cheese for an afternoon of relaxation. 2811 Stewartstown Road, Morgantown 877.989.4637, wvwines.com wvliving.com 83


HAIR SALON

Nico Spalon

SCENIC VIEW

New River Gorge The rugged New River is one of the oldest rivers in the world, and it flowed year after year to carve out the stunning gorge we see now. One 2 TIME of the top tourist destinations in the state, this area is gorgeous in every season. Take a walk down hundreds of steps to the overlook and snap a photo of the famous steel-arched bridge or mark your calendar to witness Bridge Day (page 18) in October. 162 Visitor Center Road, Lansing 304.574.2115 nps.gov/neri

STEAK

The Wonder Bar Steakhouse The Wonder Bar has been in business in Harrison County since 1946 and has been impressing guests with its famous house steaks for almost as long—the current owner, Daniel Watts, says the restaurant has been preparing steaks roughly the same way for at least three decades. “We have a char grill,” he says. “And we have a blend of seasoning that is kind of our house secret. We put it on the steak when it comes off the grill and it’s really addictive to people.” The restaurant is a mainstay in Clarksburg and has a reputation throughout the state—the choice aged beef regularly draws passersby off of Interstate 79. “There have been a lot of people who have developed an affection for the place over the years, and they keep coming back,” Daniel says. 1012 Wonderbar Road, Clarksburg 304.622.1451, wonderbarsteakhouse.com 84 wvl • fall 2014

Everyone’s talking about Nico Spalon. Owner Nicholas Romanoli has worked in the industry 30 years, styling for everyone from Chanel to Karl Lagerfield. His Morgantown salon celebrates its 10th anniversary in October 2014. “I had a vision for a salon where education, teamwork, creativity, and excellent customer service were the core values of everyday business,” Nicholas says. “I believe one of my strengths is my ability to see the potential in up-and-coming stylists. That has allowed me to bring together some of the most talented individuals from across the state, and by working together as a team we have continued to see this business thrive over the years.” Want more than a great haircut? Nico also offers keratin, extensions, airbrush makeup, waxing, and more. 80 South Pierpont Road, Morgantown 304.594.1550, nicospalon.com

NATURAL WONDER

Seneca Rocks This monolith rises nearly 900 feet above the North Fork River in the Eastern Panhandle. The view from the road is a beautiful epitaph to the grandeur 2 of West Virginia, but to really TIME experience it, you must climb to the top. Rock climbing is the only way to get to the tippy top, but if you would rather take the easy route for another great view, you can hike a little over a mile on a self-guided trail from the Seneca Rocks Discovery Center. County Route 28/18 Seneca Rocks, 304.567.2827


WINTER GETAWAY

Snowshoe Mountain

10 Snowshoe Drive, Snowshoe 877.441.4386, snowshoemtn.com

BBQ JOINT

Atomic Grill It’s been packed since it opened with customers lining up for platters heaped with pulled pork, hand-cut fries, collard greens, juicy burgers, and fanciful desserts. Open just over a year Atomic Grill has already been chosen as West Virginia’s favorite BBQ spot. “The tagline we use with everything is ‘real and true WV BBQ ,’” says owner Daniel McCawley. “We source the best local ingredients we can find for everything from meats to produce.” But some of the Atomic Grill love probably has something to do with the stance the restaurant and its staff took against sexual harassment. In early 2014 someone left a review online asking Atomic Grill servers to show some skin. Daniel and his staff took the bet and upped the ante with a potato skin special. All proceeds went to the West Virginia Foundation for Rape Information Services. The stunt earned the restaurant an international round of applause and a whole lot of love statewide. “We got a lot of support—worldwide support for the stance we took,” Daniel says. “We started off just being cheeky in response to what happened and it ended up being a great thing. We had thank you calls coming in from all over the world.” 595 Greenbag Road Morgantown, 304.241.1170 wvliving.com 85


LOCAL PARK

FARMERS’ MARKET

MUSEUM

Huntington Museum of Art More than 40,000 people visit the Huntington Museum of Art (HMA) each year, and for good reason. Exhibits range from historic photographs to pottery to modern art. The museum is also home to the C. Fred Edwards Conservatory where all sorts of plant life attract oohs and aahs. Outside, the property is home to a surprisingly vast nature trail system. “Since it opened its doors in 1952, HMA has had a strong mission to provide art education experiences to children and adults and this has always set it apart in terms of serving the public,” says Margaret Mary Layne, executive director. The museum is made even stronger by its extensive art collection—more than 15,000 objects—and dedicated staff, volunteers, and donors. The museum staff look forward to the future, including partnering with the Cabell County School System on an Expeditionary Learning School, in which the arts will play a pivotal role. 2033 McCoy Road, Huntington 304.529.2701, hmoa.org

WEST VIRGINIAN

Jennifer Garner

It’s official. We all still love Charleston native and award-winning actress Jennifer Garner. 86 wvl • fall 2014

2

TIME

Morgantown Farmers’ Market Strolling through historic downtown Morgantown on a summertime Saturday morning, visitors will see a lot of bustle on Spruce Street. At the Morgantown Farmers’ Market, newly located under a covered pavilion, 40 vendors gather every Saturday morning May through the first week of November. Families, students, young professionals, and retirees peruse the covered market from early morning to afternoon sampling fresh local produce, locally sourced artisan cheeses, fresh breads and pastries, and homemade jams and jellies. 400 Spruce Street, Morgantown 304.993.2410 morgantownfarmers.org

HISTORICAL LANDMARK

Harpers Ferry

Harpers Ferry is a favorite historic 2 TIME landmark and home to the first successful American railroad, John Brown’s attack on slavery, the largest surrender of federal troops during the Civil War, and one of the earliest integrated schools in the country. While the town is brimming with history, it’s also beautifully situated at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers, offering spectacular views from hiking trails. 304.545.6029, nps.gov/hafe

rebeccA deVono pHotogrApHY

Ritter Park

This 75-acre park in Huntington 2 is more than a place to take a walk TIME or toss a Frisbee; it’s an escape. Towering shade trees, friendly squirrels, a creek full of ducks, and even a rose garden make you feel as though you’ve stepped into a faraway land. The award-winning park also has a shelter and playground complete with kids’ zip line and sand pit. Don’t forget your photo op in front of the fountain. Between 8th and 12th streets on 13th Avenue Huntington, ghprd.org

PEPPERONI ROLL

Country Club Bakery

If you want an authentic version of the state food, Fairmont’s Country Club Bakery has it. “Everything here is made on-site every day,” says Chris Pallotta, owner of the bakery for 17 years. Chris bought the property from the pepperoni roll inventor Giuseppe Agiro’s son, Frank. Legend has it Giuseppe came from Italy to West Virginia in 1920 to work in the mines. He later opened People’s Bakery, now Country Club Bakery, and invented the snack for miners. Country Club still uses his recipe— doughy rolls of Italian bread stuffed with strips of pepperoni. “It’s a long process a lot of people don’t do anymore,” Chris says. Snag a few of these Monday and Tuesday 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Thursday and Friday 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Saturday 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. 1211 Country Club Road, Fairmont, 304.363.5690

SPORTING GOODS/OUTDOORS STORE

Cabela’s

With two stores in West Virginia and selections covering everything from hunting and shooting to camping, fishing, and ATV riding, the national chain is a first stop for many outdoor enthusiasts. 200 Cross Terrace Boulevard Charleston, 304.400.6000; One Cabela Drive Triadelphia, 304.238.0120, cabelas.com

BREWERY

Mountain State Brewery

For nearly a decade Mountain State 2 TIME Brewing Co. has been filling pint glasses with some of the very best brews. It all began in Thomas, but you can also find the beloved microbrewery in Morgantown and Maryland. 1 Nelson Boulevard, Thomas 304.463.4500; 54 Clay Street, Morgantown 304.241.1976, mountainstatebrewing.com


ART GALLERY

Clay Center For more than 10 years the Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences in Charleston has offered world-class rotating exhibits and a permanent collection of more than 800 pieces. A favorite for locals and tourists, the Clay Center exposes visitors to the history of the area and the United States through paintings, photographs, sculpture, and more. One Clay Square, Charleston 304.561.3570, theclaycenter.org

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WOMEN’S CLOTHING STORE

Park & Madison Boutique When you walk in the doors of this hip boutique in Morgantown, it’s easy to see how the local business has quickly become the go-to place for shoes, bags, clothing, and jewelry for fashion-forward women in the region. The store’s brands include Free People, BCBGeneration, Big Buddha, Kensie, Hudson, Ella Moss, and more. Park & Madison also received recognition from ELLE Magazine as one of the top 50 boutiques in America. 486 Suncrest Towne Centre Drive, 304.381.2411 shopparkandmadison.com

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823 Quarrier St. Charleston, WV 25301 304.345.2787 ArtEmporium.net

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TWO-WAY TIE! JEWELRY STORE

Calvin Broyles Jewelers & Joyces Jewelry Boutique Calvin Broyles Jewelers For more than 65 years, this family-owned business with shops in South Charleston and Teays Valley has provided timeless pieces of fine jewelry to customers. The company is a member of the American Gem Society. 4708 Maccorkle Avenue Southwest, Spring Hill; Scott Junction Plaza, Hurricane, calvinbroyles.com Joyce’s Jewelry Boutique From high-end designers to owner Joyce Katzeff’s own signature line, this familyowned jewelry boutique brings decades of experience, as well as the finest gems from around the world, to Morgantown and beyond. 1070 Suncrest Towne Centre Drive 304.599.6981, joyces-jewelry.com wvliving.com 87


Best t PRINCETON

HELVETIA

MORGANTOWN

BRIDGEPORT

SUMMERSVILLE

Cities of all sizes across the state offer something unique—from family fun to arts to nightlife. We asked readers for their favorite places to shop, eat, and even retire. Here are the results. written by Shay Maunz and Mikenna Pierotti photographed by Elizabeth Roth and Nikki Bowman


towns HUNTINGTON

HARPERS FERRY

LEWISBURG

CHARLESTON

Harpers Ferry is one of the state’s most historic towns and offers beautiful views in the Eastern Panhandle.


best towns

Up-and-Coming

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PRINCETON five years ago princeton in southern West Virginia wasn’t looking so great. “It was like a lot of places,” says Tim Ealy, Princeton’s mayor. “You know, the downtown was getting a little tired, a little worn.” But then things started to change. It was like Princeton got a good look at itself in the mirror, didn’t like what it saw—and decided to get back on track. “The community is revitalizing downtown now, being very progressive with it,” Tim says. “We’re brightening it up again.” Driving through downtown, you can’t miss the murals, There’s not one or two, but half a dozen—a man and his violin, a girl and her Hula-Hoop, a scene honoring veterans at Dick Copeland Town Square, where music plays on Wednesdays in the summer. Some of these paintings are created entirely by locals, others are the work of professional artists, like Patch Whisky, a Charleston artist and Princeton native whose mural of colorful creatures is a focal point of town. All of the murals make use of a positive message— Create Joy and Peace, Celebrate Life. Those murals are the most visible element of a multi90 wvl • fall 2014

faceted, three-year plan to boost Princeton’s image and the well-being of its citizens. It’s called the Princeton Renaissance Project, and it was born in 2013 from the Blueprint Communities Program, an effort sponsored by the West Virginia Community Development Hub. Blueprint communities receive resources to help them develop and implement community revitalization plans, and Princeton is taking full advantage of this boost. Since it began in summer 2013, the Princeton Renaissance Project has worked with the community to beautify the town, creating a community garden and facilitating the painting of a lot of those murals. The group also raised enough money to buy the historic but rundown theater downtown and begin the process of gutting and restoring it—work on the building has already begun, and they’ve raised $300,000 toward the $800,000 goal for that campaign. “We’d seen this blight downtown and we knew we needed to get rid of that,” says Greg Puckett, who is leading up the Princeton Renaissance Project. “This is our way of doing that.” And all of this seems to really be working—downtown is already a more pleasant, welcoming place to be, which has led to more concrete improvements. Four businesses


best towns

Most Unique

★★★

lAurA Wilcox rote

lAurA Wilcox rote

lAurA Wilcox rote

★★★

have relocated downtown, and three buildings have been purchased by people who plan to renovate them. “Not all of the problems have vanished—we still have issues,” Greg says. “We’ve taken a negative space and created something positive with it.” There are other signs of progress, too. A few years ago the city started holding Summer Cruise events, automobile festivals that harken back to the hot rod days of the 1950s and draw waves of people downtown. And a lot of residents see hope in a new downtown Princeton campus for the New River Community and Technical College, which will soon be drawing more than 100 students downtown for class. “I think all these things are going to light a spark downtown,” Tim says. “I think people see the city and the community are committed to the downtown area, and they’re really excited about it.” Together these small successes are changing the way people think about Princeton. Greg remembers a local Rotary meeting he attended when the Princeton Renaissance Project was first getting started. He asked the assembled group what words came to mind when someone mentioned Mercer Street, the main thoroughfare downtown. Not many of them were positive. “But in the course of an hour of talking about everything we were going to do, the murals, the beautification, the theater, their mindset changed entirely. They were using words like ‘excitement’ and ‘energetic’ instead. By the end of that meeting some great words were coming out to describe Princeton.” Today those words are becoming a reality, and Greg predicts we’ll be using those same words—and some even better ones—to describe Princeton for years to come.

HELVETIA

helvetia isn’t just a small town, it’s teeny tiny—at the time of the 2010 census there were just 59 people living in the mountain village. But this remote community in Randolph County has more personality than a place hundreds of times its size. Helvetia was founded by a group of Swiss immigrants living in Brooklyn. They decided to leave the city in search of some land of their own; it’s said they chose this spot in the mountains because it reminded them of Switzerland. These farmers, herdsmen, and craftspeople created a settlement that soon drew more immigrants from Switzerland—the population peaked in 1874 at 308. Now Helvetia is known as a bastion of Swiss culture— most of its current residents are descendants of the town’s original settlers and, perhaps because the area is so isolated, Swiss traditions of dance, music, food, and holidays have survived through the generations. That means festivals like Fasnacht—where revelers wear large, often frightening masks and burn an effigy of Old Man Winter to signal the coming of spring just before Lent—is roughly the same today as it was 150 years ago. “We’ve had all these things passed down so it is sort of sweet,” says Heidi Arnett who, with her siblings, runs several of the businesses in town. “We are kind of buried in history.” wvliving.com 91


best towns

College Town & Nightlife

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MORGANTOWN morgantown is a rare place. More than 30,000 people call the Monongalia County seat home and more than 20,000 West Virginia University students pour into the city en masse every August, only to trickle out again every May. From its humble beginnings in the late 18th century as the site of Welsh-born settler Zackquill Morgan’s homestead, Morgantown made a name for itself with glass, coal, and oil, and later became known for a vibrant education, health care, and entertainment economy. These days, this small city, sprawled between the Monongahela and Cheat rivers, is one of the fastest growing urban centers in the state. With an award-winning health care system, excellent schools, a thriving nightlife, and low unemployment, it’s no wonder people have been flocking to this college town in droves for decades. But what really puts Morgantown

on the map? Stephen Dilettoso, director of marketing, distribution, and sales at Mountain State Brewing Co. and co-founder of Iron Horse Tavern in town, says a big part of it is the way the nightlife and college community mesh. “There are a lot of new and unique places popping up that you can’t find anywhere else in the general area,” Stephen says. “Ethnic restaurants, nice wine bars, and beer garden concepts all contribute to the nightlife appeal. There’s a certain energy here that comes with any college town.” Morgantown’s reputation isn’t only for epic entertainment. The city is also consistently ranked as a top city to live and work in by Forbes, The Business Journals, Kiplinger, and CNN Money, to name a few. As a WVU alum turned Morgantown business owner, Stephen, like many residents, found unique opportunities in this little big city and came back after graduation to make his mark. An Elkins native, Stephen left his corporate job in California and now has a hand in two of Morgantown’s most popular and unique nightlife destinations. Founded in Thomas, Mountain


★★★

State Brewing’s Morgantown restaurant has become synonymous with brick oven pizza, great beer, and peaceful river views, while Iron Horse Tavern on High Street is carving out its niche with West Virginia craft beer on tap, specialty cocktails, and unique pub fare. Nightlife selection is wide and varied in Morgantown. Neighborhood bars like Town Hill Tavern on Willey Street and Mario’s Fishbowl on Richwood Avenue are local favorites; Black Bear Burritos and 123 Pleasant Street are perfect for live music aficionados both downtown and in Evansdale; beer and wine connoisseurs flock to Apothecary Ale House, The Vintage Room, and Morgantown Brewing Company in the heart of the city. But if you prefer the youth and vitality of the bar scene, you won’t be disappointed during karaoke night at The Sports Page Bar & Grill, enjoying one of the many beers on tap at Gibbie’s Pub & Eatery, or spending a night on the roof overlooking downtown at Rocktop Bar and Grill. Stephen says this influx of upscale and innovative restaurants and bars to Morgantown—there are more

than 20 downtown alone—is a reflection of how the city is changing. “When I was in school, the nightlife was a lot less refined. True college bars were the majority, and I think it was a little bit of a crazier scene back then. Today I see places like The Vintage Room and Bartini—places like these weren’t around when I was in school. We went out in sweatpants and ball caps and drank 10-cent beers. There are definitely a lot more restaurant and bar options for a more mature crowd. I think Morgantown’s overall growth as a city is the major contributor to that.” Stephen’s success just wouldn’t have been possible if Morgantown’s town/ gown relations weren’t up to par. Just ask Peggy Myers-Smith, president and CEO of the Greater Morgantown Convention & Visitors Bureau. “I think our community is uniquely hospitable and welcoming, especially to our student population. This is a great college town because families and parents can be confident that their students are living and playing in a safe, low-crime environment. We are also offering more and more opportunities for nightlife, outdoor recreation, and special community events created with thought and attention toward the student population,” she says. “At the same time, Morgantown is not exclusive to college students. People of all ages have fun together at both university and community events. And the university does a great job of welcoming visitors and travelers into the college environment. In fact, the economic impact of visitors coming to university events is huge—whether it’s athletic or artistic.” Boasting the state’s flagship land-grant university, Morgantown offers students, visitors, and residents the benefits of world-class educational programming, hugely popular athletic events, and top-notch arts and entertainment all within city limits. Every year great acts grace the WVU Creative Arts Center—entertainers like Whoopi Goldberg, Kenny Rogers, and William Shatner— while West Virginia Public Broadcasting’s Mountain Stage live radio show brings Grammy-winning artists to town and Broadway shows and family-friendly performances provide entertainment for all ages. And the offerings change season to season. Visit during the lazy days of summer for outdoor festivals, shopping, and hanging out on Cheat Lake, or book a fall trip and experience the explosion of Big 12 athletic events, art shows, and live music. “It’s diverse,” Stephen says. “You have a lot of different options in a lot of different neighborhoods. Whether it’s game day or a fun concert in town, something always seems to be buzzing.” wvliving.com 93


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best towns

›››

Best Town to Raise a Family

best towns

Outdoors

BRIDGEPORT bridgeport is situated at the intersection of Interstate 79 and historic U.S. Route 50—prime real estate for economic growth. And grow Bridgeport has, with the development of the I-79 High-Tech Corridor and the boom in the natural gas industry. But even with all that growth Bridgeport, population more than 8,000, has kept its small-town vibe, taking the best of the things that go along with growth and leaving behind the worst. The crime rate is lower than the state average and lower still than the national average. There are still only two elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school in town, so there’s no fighting to get your child into Bridgeport’s top-notch school system. And downtown still has the quaint charm of a place where the pace of life is slow with its unique restaurants and shops. Often, parents with young families in Bridgeport cite the education system there as the primary draw—which isn’t surprising, given the system’s track record. Bridgeport High School is a National Blue Ribbon School and was, in 2013, the highest ranked high school in the state. The football team won the AA state championship in 2013, and the whole town comes out on Friday nights to see the kids play. “There’s a real connection between the schools and the community here, whether it’s the high school, middle school, or elementary school,” says Mark Defazio, Bridgeport High School’s principal. “We have a lot of professional people who live in our community and they value education, and it sort of trickles down so that we have very competitive schools, academically and athletically.” That engagement is also the driving force behind the town’s slate of family-friendly activities, like a popular weekly farmers’ market—held outdoors through the spring and summer, and indoors once a month for the rest of the year— and the annual Benedum Festival held each July. When the weather is nice, residents flock to the city’s pristine parks, walking trails, ball fields, and new $8 million recreation complex featuring four baseball fields, two playgrounds, a one-mile walking trail, and a large multipurpose field. v

f ll 2014

SUMMERSVILLE there’s just something about lakes. Flat blue water, cool breezes, the break of little waves on the shore—people will come for miles just to sit and enjoy a day on the water. And some decide to stay. That’s what drew Steve Keblesh and his wife, Donna, owners of Summersville Lake Retreat, to West Virginia’s largest clear water playground—Summersville Lake in Nicholas County—more than 30 years ago. “I grew up in northern Ohio and came here in the late 1970s. We adopted it,” Steve says. “With a lot of folks it’s just the luck of the draw to be born in such a beautiful place. We came here by choice.” Named for the nearby town of Summersville, the lake is West Virginia’s largest, with more than 28,000 acres of water and 60 miles of shoreline. A direct result of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ efforts to prevent flooding with the creation of the Summersville Dam in 1966, the man-made lake is now the second largest of its kind in the eastern United States. And it’s one of southern West Virginia’s biggest attractions. The lake’s namesake is a quiet community, established in 1820 and home to less than 4,000 people. But thanks to the lake, the town is now synonymous with all things outdoors, attracting thousands of tourists seeking a vacation of sun, water, and small-town hospitality. As Summersville Convention and Visitors Bureau Executive Director Marianne Taylor puts it, “Summersville is a smorgasbord of outdoor recreation.” From lazy to sweat-inducing, the lake and surrounding landscape provide every imaginable opportunity to get closer to nature. “We have hiking trails that vary from mild to strenuous. With the largest clear water lake in the state next door, you’ll find boating, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, swimming, jet skiing, rock climbing along the sandstone cliffs, and scuba diving,” Marianne says. “We have some of the best diving in the state,” says Danny Martin, manager at Sarge’s Dive Shop. “The visibility of the lake is 20 to 45 feet depending on rainfall. We get a lot of scuba divers and people who come to get their certification.” As a full-service dive shop at Summersville Lake Marina, Sarge’s offers all the training a budding scuba pro might need—including certification classes, rental gear, and specialized


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★★★

lessons as well as scuba, swimming, and snorkeling charters, kayak and paddleboard rentals, and lake tours. The marina itself offers seasonal and overnight dock slips, boat rentals, fuel, and other vacation necessities. Despite its name, Summersville is really a four-season vacation destination, Marianne says. Angling, in particular, attracts tourists from spring to fall for some of the best smallmouth and largemouth bass fishing in the state as well as trout, walleye, bluegill, crappie, and channel catfish. The cooler days of fall are also a perfect time for class V and VI white water rafting in the Gauley River National Recreation Area—made many times more adventurous as part of the lake is drained after Labor Day. Mountain bikers love to explore the banks of Summersville Lake on its network of trails or ride through the nearby Monongahela National Forest. Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park near Summersville is another way to experience the great outdoors, with a healthy dose of Civil War and local history thrown in. Winter is also a great time for a romantic getaway in one of Summersville Lake Retreat’s cozy cabins. And don’t forget about the golfing, shopping, restaurants, RV camping, tenting, wine tasting, zip-lining, bed-and-breakfasts, and West Virginia’s only working lighthouse. Steve, also the lighthouse’s proud owner, says the project started as something of a joke but quickly grew into another important symbol of how active the community has become in promoting, preserving, and improving the natural and cultural heritage of the area. Construction of the lighthouse—made possible by local high school students—has led to a number of scholarships and has made cultural events like the Summersville Lake Lighthouse Festival possible. “It’s more than just a bulletin board. It’s grown beyond us now. The community has adopted it,” he says. Whether you come to climb the lighthouse’s 122 steps, raft down the river, peruse unique shops, or discover your own perfect swimming hole, you won’t be disappointed in Summersville. “We don’t have a lot of traffic or the hustle and bustle of a big city,” Marianne says. “But if you’re looking for a place to relax, have an adventure, see a beautiful part of West Virginia, or experience history, this is a great destination.”

wvliving.com 95


best towns

Food

››››››››› Black Sheep Burritos is known for its delicious tacos.

HUNTINGTON huntington is home to a large public university, a community of young professionals, a few museums, plenty of outdoor activities—and some really great restaurants. The city, West Virginia’s second largest, has always had a lot of energy, but it’s been especially vibrant in recent years—perhaps in part because of the booming restaurant scene. “The one thing every visitor looks for regardless of the reason they’re coming to the city is food,” says Tyson Compton, president of the Cabell-Huntington Convention & Visitors Bureau. “Dining is about more than just consuming food, it’s about the experience. It’s very important to the vibrancy of a city, and the wider the variety of options, the better.” 96 wvl • fall 2014

Huntington’s food scene is a smorgasbord of options, with everything from fine dining establishments like Savannah’s Restaurant, famous for its crab cakes and nationally recognized wine selection, to Central City Cafe, which boasts a menu full of casual comfort foods like white bean chili and meat loaf. In the last few years there’s been an influx of hip, modern eateries. “More and more people are trying to do new things with food here, and more and more diners are opening up to new flavors,” says Jeremiah Bowen, head chef at Black Sheep Burritos, a local favorite that opened in 2011 and has wowed Huntington diners ever since with its eclectic mix of burritos. “People are saying, ‘Here you go, enjoy this. You might not understand it, but we know you’re going to like it.’” The tortilla is Black Sheep’s vehicle of choice, but a handful of other Huntington restaurants are also playing with the food fusion trend. Backyard Pizza and Raw Bar is one favorite, with pizzas like The Flying Piggie, covered in barbecue pork, mozzarella, toasted butter pickles, and onion strings, or the Warren Pear pizza, which has pear, a blackberry reduction, roasted sweet garlic, chevre, arugula, toasted walnuts, and truffle oil. There’s also The Peddler, a burger joint with favorites like the Californication—a beef patty, sunny side up egg, smoked gouda, ranch, avocado, and black bean corn pico de gallo—and the Big Texas with a beef patty, brisket, blueberry barbecue sauce, cheddar, onion strings, and candied jalapeños. It’s not all about these flashy, newfangled restaurants, though. Huntington is also fi lled with a host of staples that have been serving up delicious local flavor for decades, often to widespread acclaim. Not one but two Huntington restaurants, Hillbilly Hot Dogs and Central City Cafe, have received national recognition on Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, and in 2010, Hillbilly Hot Dogs was named one of the “tastiest places to chow down” by The Travel Channel. Hillbilly Hot Dogs is most famous for its original location in nearby Lesage, where two graffiti-covered school buses are attached to what looks like a string of lean-to shacks decorated with found art. The downtown Huntington location has just as much quirk and charm, though—patrons can sit inside a bathtub to eat their hot dogs if they want. “It’s difficult to say what the best restaurant in town is, because it all depends on what your personal taste is,” says Jimmie Carder, the owner of Jim’s Steak & Spaghetti House, which has been serving up its signature spaghetti and beloved pies for 75 years from the main drag downtown. “I think that’s commendable for the city, and we’re always happy for new restaurants to come. It helps the whole town.”


★★★ clockwise

Hot Dogs, you can eat inside a bus. Backyard Pizza and Raw Bar is a new favorite, while Jim’s Steak & Spaghetti House is an institution.

bulldog creAtiVe

toril lAVender

Savannah’s Restaurant offers fine dining in an elegant house. Central City Cafe makes a mean meat loaf. At Hillbilly

wvliving.com 97



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best towns

Historic Town

HARPERS FERRY harpers ferry is a tapestry. “We are not just one story or one day or one theme in American history,” says Dennis Frye, chief historian at Harpers Ferry National Historical Park. This is West Virginia’s easternmost community—a town anchored to a little strip of land at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers that has been the site of some of the most influential battles, meetings, movements, and revolutions in American history since its founding in the mid-18th century. “This was a place were ideas were tested, where they were fought over, and where they were experimented with,” Dennis says. With a population of less than 300 in 2012, you wouldn’t expect it to attract such attention, yet thousands find their way here for the chance to be immersed in antebellum history and breathtaking natural scenery each year. In spite of its Civil War history, many historic buildings are intact. On weekends and during special events, you’ll probably run into more than a few re-

enactors—head to toe in period dress—using the old storefronts and cobblestone streets as their backdrop. They might be demonstrating Civil War field artillery in Bolivar Heights Battlefield, reacting to the British invasion in 1812, retracing the footsteps of the civil rights movement, or welcoming President Abraham Lincoln himself. “Being right on the confluence of two major waterways, being stuck between the North and South, being at the junction of three states, and being right at a gap in the Blue Ridge Mountains—these things all played a significant role throughout history,” Dennis says. Visitors can not only experience hundreds of years of history in a single visit, but can also easily explore the flora and fauna of Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, which includes land in West Virginia, Virginia, and Maryland. Hikers frequently make the trek up to Jefferson Rock to see the water gap, where the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers meet, or climb to Maryland Heights for a stunning view of the town. Trail enthusiasts wvliving.com 99


★★★

will find the Appalachian Trail Conservancy headquarters and visitor center on Washington Street to be a great resource, and the Appalachian Trail itself cuts right through the town. Nature lovers can also find white water rafting, fishing, mountain biking, tubing, canoeing, camping, hiking, zip-lining, and rock climbing in the nearby recreation areas. But, as even the most casual observer can see, history is Harpers Ferry’s bread and butter. That fact, and a love for his hometown, is why Dennis has remained in Harpers Ferry, and why, as a historian, he’s not only published nine books and more than 100 articles but was also an associate producer and historical consultant for the 2003 Civil War film, Gods and Generals—filmed in part in Harpers Ferry. “This place has been incredibly fertile for research and writing, but I also have incredible passion for this area.” If you’re a history buff, come to Harpers Ferry to see abolitionist John Brown’s preserved fort; step through time at the John Brown Wax Museum; visit the former Storer College campus, where Frederick Douglass and 100 wvl • fall 2014

W.E.B. Du Bois fueled the civil rights movement; or hike through Bolivar Heights Battlefield, the site of no less than five Civil War battles. “Harpers Ferry represents everything from the industrial revolution to the revolution for freedom and civil rights to the revolution over secession to the manufacturing and transportation revolutions. We have both history and mother nature at its best,” Dennis says. “We also have a very active calendar and lots of family and youth programs. This is the ideal national park visitor experience.” With outdoor recreation, museums, living history, and cultural events like the Step Into Autumn Festival and Old Tyme Christmas celebration, as well as restaurants, shops, and lodging set in historic buildings just steps away from downtown, Harpers Ferry is more than just a daycation destination. “The events that occurred here changed America. You can’t even scratch the surface in one day,” Dennis says. “The number one thing we hear from people is, ‘I’ll be back.’”


best towns

The Arts & Retire In

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LEWISBURG

no one can quite pinpoint what it is that makes Lewisburg so special. But it seems everyone agrees this historic Greenbrier County town, so thoroughly drenched in arts and culture, is unique. “If I had the answer really down I could market it, but unfortunately I don’t really know what it is,” says Larry Levine, a staff member at Trillium Performing Arts Collective. He figures it’s some combination of the area’s history and the special care locals have taken to preserve Lewisburg’s downtown. The result is a town that thrives like few other small towns do. Downtown is filled with restaurants, art galleries, boutiques, and cafés. Cultural preservation is of paramount importance. Live music is always playing, a new show is always on stage, a new exhibit is always at one of the galleries. “We’re unique,” says Kara Dense, executive director of the Greenbrier County Convention & Visitors

Bureau. “We have most of the perks you have in a big city, but also a nice smaller town feel.” The town is home to West Virginia’s only professional live theater, the Greenbrier Valley Theatre, as well as one of only four Carnegie Halls in the world, a longstanding arts cooperative called the Trillium Performing Arts Collective, several gallery spaces, and plenty of artists who live and work locally. Overall the arts community is close-knit, collaborative, and diverse. “We’re talking about everything from wonderful symphonic music to very grassroots dance and movement, a strong literary community, and then a professional theater company producing and building new art every month,” says Nathan Gwartney, director of marketing at the Greenbrier Valley Theatre. “It’s extensive and we’ve got such wonderful people with wonderful taste and open minds—the town is just so full of creative and wonderful people.” wvliving.com 101


★★★

The vibe in Lewisburg is laid-back but lively, which may be why it draws in so many retirees—after all, isn’t that the way most people would like to describe their retirement years? “We find ourselves being a huge draw to people after they retire,” Lisa says. “I think the arts are a big part of that. If you live in a big metropolis there are certain things you come to appreciate like the arts and to be able to retire into a smaller, safe community that has so many things going on—it’s perfect.” Sometimes, Lisa says, people get off the interstate in Lewisburg just looking for a pit stop while traveling and fall in love with town on that first visit. “They discover our area and immediately start looking for a home,” she says. They’re probably drawn to the area because of more than just the arts, though. The little town of just under 4,000 people boasts more than 50 downtown establishments—from restaurants and cafés to antique shops, clothing stores, and art galleries. Lewisburg is also rich in history—the more than 200-acre Lewisburg Historic District encompasses the city and includes architecture dating back to 1784. History buffs swarm to places like the John Wesley United Methodist Church on Foster Street—its southwest corner was struck by a cannonball in the 1862 Battle of Lewisburg during the 102 wvl • fall 2014

Civil War—and the Confederate Cemetery—a cross-shaped mass grave on McElhenney Road that holds 95 unknown Confederate soldiers killed or mortally wounded in that battle. The town also lies nine miles from the worldrenowned Greenbrier Resort, with excellent golf amenities and fine dining. And residents are never far from outdoor adventure with destinations like the Greenbrier River Trail and the Greenbrier State Forest close by. Lewisburg’s retirees tend to have a genial relationship with the community at large, and Lisa says they help the town by infusing it with their energy and expertise—many retirees find themselves volunteering time, money, or both to one of Lewisburg’s arts organizations, as well as supporting them with their patronage. “It ends up benefiting everyone when you have all these retirees in town, because they want to and are able to give back,” she says. “It’s a wonderful place to retire for so many reasons,” she says. “Sometimes they’ve visited and fallen in love with it here, sometimes people have ties to the community, sometimes they have grown up in West Virginia but moved away looking for something else and want to return. I believe West Virginia just has a certain pull to it, and even if you’re not able to raise your children here you might want to have your grandchildren here with you.”


best towns

Shopping

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CHARLESTON charleston, the state’s capital, is both distinctly West Virginian and uniquely urban for the state. Its shopping scene reflects that, with local shops scattered throughout two business districts, plus shopping centers and a mall filled with big, national chain stores. Charleston has it all, from a massive Cabela’s outlet to tiny antique shops, from national department stores to locally owned consignment boutiques. A shopping trip in Charleston is a smorgasbord of options. “It is a nice diversity,” says Gina Puzzuoli, who owns Stray Dog Antiques, a beloved antique store downtown. “We have places you can go for chain stores, where you’re pretty confident about what you’re going to get—but if you want some nice local shops, and we hope you do, we have a community of those as well.”

“We certainly boast some national fashion brands you can’t find anywhere else in the state,” says Lisa McCracken, the marketing director at the mall, the Charleston Town Center. “But it’s more than that, because you can do Charleston Town Center, then you can swing over to Capitol Market, or up to the Bridge Road shops for something local—you really can do it all. And the size of our metropolis really lends itself to hitting them all in one day. We’re all 10 minutes away from one another.” You might start downtown on Capitol Street, where there’s a smattering of interesting, locally owned stores all within a three-block radius of one another. A handful of them specialize in selling things secondhand, from mid-century antique furniture at The Purple Moon to consignment clothing at Consignment Company and Savvy Chic. Shops like Stray Dog Antiques and Collage Art Shop carry an eclectic mix of antiques, art, and oddities. Then there are the art stores and galleries, with art, pottery, wvliving.com 103


★★★ South Charleston Convention & Visitors Bureau 2014 Events September 12th-21st

International Film Festival September 13th

Arts & Crafts Mound Festival Arts & Crafts Mound Festival

September 27th

Spring Hill Autumn Fest

South Charleston Someplace Special

October 18th & 19th

Rock & Gem Show December 13th

South Charleston Christmas Parade sochascvb@yahoo.com | southcharlestonwv.org

The Paintbrush Studio “West Virginia 150” 18x24 Giclee print on high quality paper $40 + tax, $5 shipping and handling, all credit cards accepted Artwork by Linda Conner 304.542.5245, lindaconner05@gmail.com 104 wvl • fall 2014

305 Pennsylvania Ave, Charleston WV 25302

glasswork, and textiles, often made by West Virginia artisans. Taylor Books, at the heart of this little shopping district, has a wide variety of books and magazines and an adjoining gallery space where art is displayed and sold. All of these little places feed off one another, coming together to make for a holistic shopping experience—if you can’t find what you’re looking for in one store, the person behind the register can probably direct you to a shop down the street that has it. “We have a nice little community of shops down here,” Gina says. “We all feel the success of one shop will do nothing but help all of us, which makes it nice for the stores and the customers both.” It’s the same way across the Kanawha River from downtown, at the South Hills Shops on Bridge Road. “It’s like a mini getaway destination up here,” says Ann Adkins, one of the owners of Geraniums, a women’s clothing boutique. The Bridge Road shops are all highend specialty stores—they each fill a different niche but come together for an inclusive upscale shopping experience. Stores like Geraniums and Charlie Boutique offer fine women’s clothing, while Kelly’s on Fifth caters to men. Cornucopia and Eggplant are both charmingly whimsical gift shops, Yarid’s carries fine jewelry, and Twice as Nice is a consignment shop for kid’s clothing. “People can shop here all day long,” Ann says. Free parking helps with that, as does the close proximity of the stores—they’re all nestled together on one charming street. If you’re ready for some more familiar stores, you can drive out to Southridge, where you’ll find that massive Cabela’s Retail Store, plus favorites like HomeGoods, Marshall’s, Pier 1 Imports, and Target. Or hop over to the Charleston Town Center for staples like Macy’s, Coach, Ann Taylor LOFT, and Sephora. You won’t be alone—Lisa says on a normal week, the mall sees tens of thousands of shoppers and often pulls visitors from as many as eight surrounding states. “I’m pleased Charleston remains a shopping destination for our state,” Lisa says. “And it’s also a shopping destination for the entire region.”


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TAKING THE

SCENIC ROUTE wr tten by

nikki bowman

photographed by

nikki bowman and elizabeth roth

West Virginia is known for country roads and scenic drives, and there’s no better time than in the fall to enjoy a car ride through our majestic mountains. Here are a few scenic routes and stops to enjoy along the way. ➸


Marlinton TOBeartown

Marlinton Plan your trip around the Autumn Harvest Festival (September 27, 2014) and experience the Roadkill Cook-off and the Hudson Cream Flour Biscuit Bake Off.

Droop Mountain Battlefield is the

site of West Virginia’s last great Civil War battle. Pack a picnic, let the kids stretch their legs at the playground, and climb the Lookout Tower for scenic views.

55

219

Mill Point This picturesque community along U.S. Route 219 is where James E. A. Gibbs invented the chain stitch sewing machine.

Watoga State Park Cranberry Glades The Highland Scenic Highway branches off of U.S. Route 219 and takes you through more than 700 acres of wetlands within the Monongahela National Forest known as Cranberry Glades. With four scenic overlooks, waterfalls, and bogs, this is a memorable drive.

Hillsboro is the birthplace of the Pulitzer and Nobel Prize-winning author Pearl S. Buck. Stop and take a tour of her home and learn about the early experiences that shaped her imagination.

Seven miles off of U.S. Route 219, this 100 acres of nearly untouched, rocky terrain is a joy to explore.

NOTE: Map not to scale

kirSten boeHMer pHotogrApHY

Beartown State Park

wvliving.com 107


Kingwood TO Canaan Valley Kingwood

Rowlesburg

72

Travel State Route 72 for stunning views of the Cheat River Canyon.

This fall (October 12, 2014) make plans to attend Rowlesburg’s Annual Chestnut Festival.

50

Blackwater Falls State Park is one of the most photographed sites in the state. With more than 20 miles of hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and recreation opportunities, it is the perfect destination for a roadtrip.

219

Thomas The charming towns of Thomas and nearby Davis are hubs of art and culture.

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Davis

Canaan Valley is the

Canaan Valley Resort State Park 108 wvl • fall 2014

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highest valley east of the Mississippi, encompassing some of the most majestic scenery in the highlands.



Green Bank TOSeneca State Forest Cass Scenic Railroad State Park A short jaunt off State Route 92 on State Route 66, the historic town of Cass is a favorite destination for leaf peepers. Rent one of the charming restored company houses, visit the company store and museum, and ride the steam-driven locomotive to Bald Knob. Pack a jacket to be prepared for cool mountain air.

Green Bank Surrounded by largest picturesque farmland is the largest, most capable, fully steerable single dish radio telescope in the world— the Green Bank Telescope at the Robert C. Byrd National Radio Astronomy Observatory.

66

92 Seneca State Forest Take State Route 92 to Public Road 1/8 to visit the state’s oldest state forest. Its four-acre lake, miles of hiking trails, and primitive cabins provide a fallfriendly escape. Follow the signs to the fire tower for unparalleled views.

1/8

110 wvl • fall 2014

28

Dunmore Located at the intersection of State Route 92 and State Route 28 is the tiny unincorporated community of Dunmore. Ignore the outside appearance of the Dunmore Country Mart & Bakery and grab a bite to eat. You won’t regret it. The baked goods are some of the finest in the state.



the pa rting shot | by Nikki Bowman

Sunset on the Lake photographed by

Nikki Bowman

Sunsets over Spruce Island Lake in Old Timberline at Canaan Valley are breathtaking. Old Timberline is a 1,000-acre development for residential and vacation homes. Its hiking trails, fishing ponds, and protected wildlife areas make it a popular getaway destination. 112 wvl • fall 2014




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