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A Guide to Clarksburg, Fairmont, Morgantown, and the Surrounding Area

March/April 2015

In This IssueWV Community Development Hub

West Virginia Botanic Garden

Local Art Gallery Events

Check out our new website! threecitieswv.com

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Contents 2From the Publisher

Features6The Richard Mine Exhibit On display through April 30

7Fairmont Connector Art Show Set for AprilWest Virginia artists, here’s your chance to showcase your talents!

13The Dancing Fig Italian Fusion RestaurantFresh Pasta—the Way It Should Be

14Welcome Spring!Come visit the inspirational landscapes of West Virginia Botanic Garden

16Exhibit 60 Art Show at MAAJuried show open to MAA members and others within a sixty-mile radius of Morgantown

20The WV Community Development HubWorking for West Virginia

22Try This West VirginiaWorking to help West Virginia build healthier communities

23MAC Hosts Artist Networking Event

24Marshall Keys Performance Sells Out In Ten Days!Second show scheduled for April 18

25West Virginia Comedy Festival Premiers in MarchThe Vintage Theatre Company and its comedy troupe, The Fearless Fools, will host festival

28The Mountaineer Balloon Festival Returns to Morgantown!Beloved festival returns October 1–4, 2015

30Calendar of Events

Advertiser Directory3Dining & EntertainmentDining, nightlife and entertainment for all ages

6See & DoPoints of interest and activities

8AccommodationsHotels, bed & breakfasts and more

12ShoppingUnique local shops and galleries

28ServicesProfessional services to meet all your needs

Three Cities is published by DKWV Publications PO Box 824 Clarksburg, WV 26302

PublisherDonna Kirk304.680.2238dkwvpublications@frontier.com©2015 DKWV Publications

Layout and design Steven Joswick

Submissions for Calendar of Events welcome

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Contents

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From the PublisherWelcome to the March/April issue of Three Cities! There are so many new and exciting events happening in these spring months of 2015. This issue profiles the WV Botanic Garden, and three Art Gallery events—the Fairmont Connector Art Show in Marion County, the Morgantown Art Association Gallery’s Exhibit 60 Art Show, and the Monongalia Arts Center’s Artist Networking Events. Read about the first-ever WV Comedy Festival in Bridgeport in March and the Marshall Keys Jazz shows scheduled in Clarksburg in April. Find out about the WV Community Development Hub and some of the amazing projects that organization coordinates, including the WV Physical Activity Network, which kicks off in April.

The Three Cities website is now online! Visit threecitieswv.com to find all the components of the current publication, as well as previous issues, and visit links to our sponsors’ websites. And be sure to “like” us on Facebook.

I hope you have the opportunity to enjoy spring in North Central West Virginia!

Donna Kirk Publisher

From the Publisher

Advertiser DirectoryThe Three Cities Advertising Directory is organized by Dining, See & Do, Accommodations, Shopping, and Services.

Establishments are listed alphabetically by location: Bridgeport, Clarksburg, Fairmont, Morgantown and surrounding areas.

If your business or service area is interested in being included, please contact us at

dkwvpublications@frontier.com.

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Advertiser Directory / Dining & Entertainment

Dining & EntertainmentBridgeport areaMia Margheritamiamargherita.com / 139 Conference Center Way, Suite 137 / Charles Point Commons, Bridgeport / 304.808.6400Known for our house specialty Neopolitan Style pizzas baked in a unique coal fired pizza oven. We also feature a menu built off of the comfort foods our local Italian population grew up on, from and familiar to the San Giovanni Calabrian Region of Italy. Authentic Italian sandwiches, simple healthful salads, Italian casseroles, and traditional soups and stews. We use fresh foods and products grown and produced locally through our local growers and local farmers market. Mon–Thurs 11 am–10 pm / Fri–Sat 11 am–11 pm / Sun 11 am–9 pm

Oliverio’s Ristoranteoliveriosristorante.com / Rts 73 and 50, Bridgeport / 304.842.7388 Since 1965, the Oliverio family has had a reputation for wonderful Italian food. They welcome you for pasta, veal, chicken, seafood and steak dishes in an atmosphere that is a lovely contrast of new and old world. Dinners from $10.95, children’s prices. All le-gal beverages. Mon–Fri 11–10 / Sat 4–10 / Sun 4–9.

Provence Market Café and Marketplaceprovencemarketcafe.com / 603 S. Virginia Avenue, Bridgeport / 304.848.0911 Since 2002, nationally recognized Provence Market’s menu features South of France inspired flavors. Try our Duckling Michel, Champagne Scal-lops, or have your Filet Crowned with Crab and Wine Butter Sauce. We also offer locally sourced specials and nightly specials. Visit our website to view our full Lunch and Dinner menus. Chef Hart selected to the inaugural edition Best Chefs of America. Wine Spectator Award of Excellence. Adjacent Wine Shop. Like us on Facebook to receive our current events and activities. Tues–Thur 11–9 / Fri–Sat 11–10. Avail-able for private parties Sundays and Mondays.

Wonder Bar Steakhousewonderbarsteakhouse.com / Bridgeport Hill, Wonder Bar Road, Bridgeport / 304.622.1451 “Top of the Town.” Its atmosphere of distinction makes it one of the state’s finest restaurants, specializing in hand-cut steaks, South African Rock Lobster, and other seafood dishes. Mon–Sat open at 5 pm. Closed Sundays. Reservations suggested.

Clarksburg areaMinard’s 813 Pike Street, Clarksburg / 304.623.1711 Well-known family restaurant whose old-world

ambiance is the ideal setting for family recipe Italian food. Excellent steaks, chicken, and seafood are also offered. Once the Minard family home, there are six dining rooms, each tastefully deco-rated. Couples will love the romantic wine garden which seats just 12. Family-style dinners (for four or more) and children’s prices. All legal beverages. Sun–Thurs 11–10 / Fri–Sat 11 am–11 pm.

Fairmont areaColasessano’s colasessanos.com / 141 Middletown Circle, Fairmont / 304.363.0571Established in 1950 by Filippo & Filomena Colasessano. Famous signature pizza and pepperoni rolls, as well as appetizers, salads, and sandwiches. Colasessano’s has been in business for more than fifty years. We are a dine-in and carryout pizza restaurant. Mon–Thurs 10 am–9 pm / Fri–Sat 10 am–10 pm

Heston Farm Wineryhestonfarm.com / 1602 Tulip Lane, Pleasant Valley Road Exit off I-79, Fairmont / 304.366.WINE Taste our large selection of traditional wines, whiskeys, and moon shine. Enjoy farm-fresh food in our unique indoor and outdoor dining areas, deco-rated with vintage farm equipment, rustic tools, and antiques. Mon 11–6 / Tues–Sat 11–9 / Sun 11–3.

Muriale’s Restaurantmurialesrestaurant.com / 1742 Fairmont Avenue, Fairmont / 304.363.3190 An award-winning restaurant serving the best in Italian cuisine and excellent steaks, seafood, and salads. Great service, a lovely atmosphere and an unbeatable children’s menu make this a best bet for family dining. A good selection of wines. Six dining rooms seat a total of 250. Banquet rooms accommodate up to 200. Deck dining. Open seven days at 11 am.

Poky Dotthepokydot.com / 1111 Fairmont Avenue, Fairmont /304.366.3271 Since 1950, the Poky Dot has meant great food and fun. It’s still true today! You’ll love to dine in this unique atmosphere. Breakfast is served all day; desserts are legendary. Come enjoy our wonderful décor: ‘fifties’ memorabilia, a wall of murals, and a working juke box! Open seven days.

Morgantown areaCox-Roosevelt Inncoxroosevelt.com / 1012 Dogtown Road, Reedsville, WV / 304.864.3405 Just outside the town that Eleanor Roosevelt built, we offer a memorable dining experience. Very

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Breakfast • Gelato • Panini • Espresso Bar • WiFi • CateringLocated in Suncrest next to Kegler’s, a café offering a cozy atmosphere for studying, meetings or a getaway from the daily grind at the office. Homemade soups and gelato, made-to-order paninis for

breakfast, lunch or dinner. A full espresso bar to jumpstart your day the Tutto way.

755 Chestnut Ridge Road, Suburban Plaza, Suncrest • (304) 291-2444See our full menu at www.tutto-gelato.com

Open Monday–Saturday 7am–9pm • Sunday 9am–9pm

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The Richard Mine Exhibit On display through April 30

The Richard Mine Exhibit is a collaborative effort between the Morgantown History Museum and a project developed by Friends of Deckers Creek. The mission of the project is to reconnect our community with the history surrounding the Richard Mine and the environmental legacies that came as a result. The exhibit pairs our region’s proud mining and industrial past in the Deckers Creek Corridor with a vision of modern healthy watersheds that help drive the local economy.

Friends of Deckers Creek is committed to treating the acid mine discharge from the Richard Mine, which is the largest single

source of contamination in the watershed. The exhibit aims to connect visitors with the mine’s past and the watershed’s future.

The exhibit is funded by a mini-grant from the West Virginia Humanities Council and an Urban Waters Small Grant funded by the Environmental Protection Agency. The Morgantown History Museum is located at 175 Kirk Street in Morgantown. Hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 10 am to 5 pm. For more information, visit www.morgantownhistorymuseum.org or contact info@deckerscreek.org

Feature / The Richard Mine Exhibit

exclusive. Good food graciously served in pleasant surroundings. Award-winning chef serving dinners on the veranda, or back porch, or in the dining room. Reservations only.

Oliverio’s Ristoranteoliveriosristorante.com / 52 Clay Street, Morgantown / 304.296.2565 Since 1965, the Oliverio family has had a reputation for wonderful Italian food. They welcome you for pasta, veal, chicken, seafood and steak dishes in an atmosphere that is a lovely contrast of new and old world. Dinners from $10.95, children’s prices. All legal beverages. Mon–Fri 11–10 / Sat 12–10 / Sun 4–9

Peking Housepekinghousewv.com/ 1137 Van Voorhis Road, Mor-gantown / 304.598.3333 Peking House offers excellent Peking and Szechuan cuisine including seafood, beef, pork, and chicken dishes. A banquet area accommodates 80. Take-out available. Fantastic Sunday buffet. Lunch, Mon–Fri 11:30–2 / Dinner, Mon–Thur 4:30–9:30 / Fri–Sat 4:30–10:30 / Sun 12–9.

Tutto Gelato Cafétutto-gelato.com / 755 Chestnut Ridge Road, Suburban Plaza, Morgantown / 304.291.2444 For the busy day, bustling morning, restful afternoon, late night snack, mid-day meal, lazy weekend, date night, family outing, rushed lunch, business coffee, sweet tooth, healthy choice, pick-me-up… For the Italian in you… Tutto Gelato Café. In addition to our gelato, our menu includes breakfast, pastries, paninis, soups, salads, pizza cones, all fresh every day. We also offer catering. Mon–Sat 7 am–9 pm / Sun 9 am–9 pm

See & DoBridgeport areaBridgeport Convention and Visitors Bureaugreater-bridgeport.com / Bridgeport offers a little bit of something for everyone. From convenience and easy access to local flavor and off the beaten path. You’ll find something different around every corner.

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Feature / Fairmont Connector Art Show

Fairmont Connector Art Show Set for AprilWest Virginia artists, here’s your chance to showcase your talents!

The Fairmont Connector Art Show is scheduled from March 28 through April 30 at the Marion County Visitors Center. On Friday, March 27, the Visitor Center will host an invitation-only reception with light hors-d’oevres, entertainment, and a meet and greet with artists. Saturday, March 28, will be the grand opening of the month-long juried exhibit, featuring original pieces by West Virginia artists. Organizers also hope to expand the exhibit by including exhibitors in summer events including the Arts Festival at Palatine Park in August. Last year’s Art Show featured 38 artists, including jewelers, painters, photographers, and sculptors.

Following is a timeline for interested parties. If you would like to participate as an artist or volunteer to help with the event, contact John Provins at johnp.mcparc@gmail.com or the MCPARC office 304.363.7037.

All artists living in West Virginia or attending a West Virginia college or university are eligible. All artwork must be original and completed in the last two years. A 20 percent commission will be charged on all artists’ sales by Connector Art, with proceeds benefitting the Art in the Park program. More information, including an entry submission form, is available at https://www.facebook.com/ConnectorArt

March 17 Deadline for receiving all entry submissions March 21 Notification of acceptance / Deadline for receipt of accepted works March 27 Opening reception (7 to 9 pm) March 28 Grand gallery open April 30 Exhibition concludes

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Advertiser Directory / Accommodations

Clarksburg areaClarksburg Convention and Visitors Bureauclarksburgvisitorswv.com / 321 W. Main St., Suite 2, Clarksburg / 304.622.2157 Find out more about historic Clarksburg and what it has to offer!

Fairmont areaMain Street Fairmontmainstreetfairmont.org / Downtown Fairmont is a historic community located along the banks of the Monongahela River. With a history tied to the com-mercial production of coal, our culture is steeped in tradition. Our organization is working to continue to make downtown Fairmont an even better place with more opportunities for economic development and fun activities.

Marion County Convention and Visitors Bureaumarioncvb.com / 1000 Cole Street, Suite A, Pleasant Valley / 304.368.1123 Check out our new website to find out what’s happening in Marion County!

Morgantown areaMain Street Morgantowndowntownmorgantown.com / 201 High St., Suite 2, Morgantown / 304.292.0168 Morgantown is home to over 26,000 people. With one of the strongest economies for small metro areas (CNN Money) Morgantown has much to offer. From outdoors activities, to a state of the art research institution, to a historic downtown rife with history, we’ve got it all. Nestled in the hills of northern West Virginia, Morgantown is a hop skip and a jump away from the Pittsburgh and Washing-ton D.C. metro areas but is just far enough away to provide a relaxing and scenic ambience.

Morgantown Art Association Gallerymorgantownartassociation.com / Mountaineer Mall, Morgantown / 304.291.5900 We bring together all those individuals interested in the creative arts! Visit the studio to view monthly displays, participate in scheduled watercolor and oil painting classes. Tues–Fri 10 am–4 pm.

Morgantown Convention and Visitors Bureautourmorgantown.com / 341 Chaplin Road, First Floor, Morgantown / 304.292.5081 Active calendar of events on our website!

Morgantown History Museummorgantownhistorymuseum.org / 175 Kirk Street, Morgantown / 304.319.1800 The Morgantown History Museum is a nonprofit in-stitution and the first city-sponsored museum in the

Greater Morgantown area. Its mission is to preserve and promote local and regional history and to make it accessible to the citizens of Morgantown and visitors to the region. Tues–Sat 10 am–5 pm.

Lewis CountyMountain Lakes CVBmountainlakescvb.com / 2906 US Hwy 33 E, Weston, WV / 304.269.4988 The rolling mountains and peaceful waterways in Lewis County are a refreshing retreat. When the hectic pace of everyday life presses upon you, make your way to our part of the world. We’re not far from you!

Accommodations Morgantown areaComfort InnRt 119 North at Exit 148, I-79 and Exit 1, I-68, Morgantown / 304.296.9364 Featuring 80 comfortable rooms, tv, direct dial phones, whirlpool rooms, and exercise facilities. Outdoor pool. Free continental breakfast.

Ramada Conference Centerwww.ramada.com / 20 Scott Avenue, Morgantown / 304.296.3431 Full-service hotel and conference center featuring 149 rooms, including suites, extended stay, and ja-cuzzi rooms. Offering the area’s finest hospitality in a very relaxing atmosphere. Meeting and banquet facilities accommodating up to 500 people. Search www.ramada.com

Waterfront Place Hotelwphotel.com / 2 Waterfront Place and University Blvd., Morgantown / 304.296.1700 Beautiful, full-service hotel near everything—WVU, PRT, downtown, businesses and hospitals. Concierge level, two restaurants, three bars, spa, fitness center, wifi, covered parking, and meeting and banquet facilities for up to 1,500 people.

Fairmont area The Inn at Pettyjohninnpettyjohn.com / 1117 Fairmont Avenue, Fairmont / 304.363.0100 48 completely renovated guest rooms, lounge, outdoor heated pool and spa, whirlpool and fire-place suites available; all rooms feature refrigera-tors, microwave, and 32” flat screen TVs.

Clarksburg areaHilton-Garden Inn Clarksburgclarksburg.stayhgi.com / 606 Emily Drive / 304.326.9200

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EST. 1950

Monday–Thursday10 am–9 pm Friday–Saturday10 am–10 pm

WORLD FAMOUS PIZZA & PEPPERONI BUNS

Visit us at our new location behind the Middletown Mall!

141 Middletown CircleFairmont, WV 26554304-363-0571www.colasessanos.com

Lodging & Fine DiningDogtown Road / Arthurdale, WV

(304) 864 3405www.coxroosevelt.com

Reservations only

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Advertiser Directory / Shopping

Collecting and preserving the history of Morgantown and

the surrounding area

175 Kirk StreetMorgantown, WV

Tues-Sat 10am-5pm

(304) 319-1800morgantownhistorymuseum.org

112 rooms, featuring the latest in technology and ergonomic comfort. Each guest room features a spacious work desk and a hospitality center with microwave, refrigerator, and coffeemaker. Business center complimentary and accessible 24 hours a day. Grill serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

ShoppingBridgeport areaArtworksartworkswv.com / 601 S. Virginia Avenue, Bridgeport / 304.842.7626 Owned and operated by artist Lotus A. MacDowell, Artworks specializes in custom framing and has an outstanding selection of art and unique gifts. Here you will find a large selection of MacDowell’s original artwork and limited edition prints, as well as the work of a number of West Virginia and other nationally known artists.

Morgantown areaMorgantown Art Association morgantownartassociation.com / Mountaineer Mall, Greenbag Road, Morgantown / 304.291.5900 Local and regional artists are showcased in exhibits of their work, many of which are for sale. Art includes oil, watercolor, acrylics, pastels, block prints, photographs, jewelry, and reproductions. Staffed by member artists. Come visit and talk ART. Classes and workshops offered during the day and evening. Tues–Fri 10 am–4 pm or by appointment.

The Shoppes at Seneca Centersenecacenter.com / 709 Beechurst Avenue, Morgantown / 304.692.7500 The former Seneca Glass Factory is a Morgantown landmark, restored and on the National Register of Historic Places. Today it houses a variety of shops offering gifts, women’s fashions, bath and body products, antiques and collectibles, and more. Services include Real Estate. Mon–Sat.

Sutton WVEverything Fiestaeverythingfiesta.com / Flatwoods Factory Stores, I-79 Exit 67, Flatwoods, WV / 304.765.5383 Large variety of world-famous Fiesta, beautifully displayed. First-quality Fiesta and accessories and a large selection of second-quality Fiesta at discounted prices. Mon–Thur 10–6 / Fri–Sat 10–8 / Sun 12–6

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Feature / The Dancing Fig

The Dancing Fig Italian Fusion RestaurantFresh Pasta—the Way It Should Be

If you haven’t been to the new Dancing Fig location, on University Avenue near the Evansdale campus of WVU, you might be pleasantly surprised to experience the restaurant’s updated offerings! The recently-reopened restaurant, in the former Zenclay Tea House, offers a redesigned menu incorporating an Asian influence. Partially inspired by a wok station from the tea house, the new menu has expanded creatively, blending Italian cuisine with Eastern styles in celebration of the Noodle!

Additionally, the new setting has a more intimate setting, reflecting more of the co-owners’ personalities. Morgantown native Janet Ferraro and Moorefield native Michael Bowyer both have culinary backgrounds. Former employees of Lira and The Vintage Room, the couple was inspired by a culinary tour of Italy in 2010, and started the

Dancing Fig in downtown Morgantown in 2013. The new restaurant also offers the fine wizardry of New Orleans-trained mixologist Brian Maxwell, who spins new drink concoctions on a daily basis.

In addition to the seasonal menus, the restaurant hosts special monthly wine dinners. The wine dinners offer five to six courses with beverage pairings. Tickets are sold prior to each event. On March 17, you can celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with Elevated Irish Fare—come in and enjoy stout and soda bread with smoked seafood compote, or maybe you’d rather try colcannon with a hearty stew and smoked Irish whiskey. On

April 21, the restaurant will host A Dance of Spring, featuring local produce offerings from Mountain Harvest Farm.

For more information, visit thedancingfig.com and like on Facebook, at facebook.com/TheDancingFig.

Housemade ramen with roasted pork, mushrooms, spinach, scallions, and poached egg

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Welcome Spring!Come visit the inspirational landscapes of West Virginia Botanic Garden

By Barb Howe, Secretary, West Virginia Botanic Garden, Inc.

It’s spring and time to get outside to enjoy the bounty of nature. The West Virginia Botanic Garden is the perfect place to do this. Located at 1061 Tyrone Road in Morgantown, the Botanic Garden is open every day from dawn to dusk free of charge. You can park in the lot just off Tyrone Road and walk down the gravel road to start to explore this eighty-two-acre site. On Saturdays from 10 am to 4 pm and on Sunday afternoons from 1 to 4 pm, the gate may be open, and you can drive down to the lower parking lot. You can pick up a trail map at the kiosk near the lower parking lot. We like dogs, as long as they are on leashes, but we do not allow bicycles.

This is the only botanic garden in the Appalachian region, and the West Virginia Botanic Garden, “in harmony with nature, seeks to enhance the quality of life through public enjoyment and education involving inspirational landscapes and displays of a rich variety of ornamental plants appropriate to the region.”

The designed gardens include the Shade Garden, Butterfly Garden, Rhododendron Garden, Secret Garden “hidden” within the Tree Island, Eclectic Garden, and the beds of colorful annuals at the Garden’s entrance, plus a shaded Meditation Garden along the Farside Trail. There are also many acres

Feature / West Virginia Botanic Garden

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of forests, including a majestic hemlock forest. Follow the Reservoir Loop Trail to the boardwalk across the wetlands and read the interpretive signs about the value of wetlands. Take the Wetland Loop Trail to see the deer exclosure to see what can grow when deer do not have access to vegetation. You’ll find the Fairy Garden along the Forest Trail, where you’ll see the imaginative “structures” that children build during the annual Fall Children’s Festival to keep the fairies warm during the winter. And near the Butterfly Garden, you’ll see Sylvia, the red-tail hawk that West Virginia University alumnus Ben Gazsi constructed during the summer of 2014.

The Botanic Garden is the site of the former Tibbs Run Reservoir, which provided clean water to the City of Morgantown from 1912 to 1969. When you follow the Reservoir Loop Trail, which is accessible, you will circle the now-drained reservoir basin and can see some of the reservoir structures, including the outlet tower, foundation of the chemical feed house, and spillway. Interpretive signs along the trail explain these structures and the role this site played in bringing clean water to Morgantown.

West Virginia University donated its Solar Decathlon House to the West Virginia Botanic Garden in 2014. During 2015, the

West Virginia Botanic Garden, Inc., will be re-erecting this house as its first permanent building. This new “green” building will provide meeting space, office space, and public restrooms. There may be restricted access to some parts of the Garden during the construction process, but there will still be plenty to enjoy at all times.

The City of Morgantown owns the West Virginia Botanic Garden property and leases it to the West Virginia Botanic Garden, Inc., a 501 (c) (3) organization. That group sponsors walks and workshops that highlight the resources of the site or provide information on gardening-related topics and nature photography. The walks are free and open to the public, while there is a small fee for the workshops, and they require pre-registration. You can get information about programs at the Garden at www.wvbg.org or by finding the West Virginia Botanic Garden on Facebook. You can also become a Friend of the West Virginia Botanic Garden at www.wvbg.org. The West Virginia Botanic Garden, Inc., always needs volunteers to help maintain the gardens, plan events, or host on Saturdays or on Sunday afternoons. If you would like to help, please contact Erin Smaldone, the volunteer coordinator and education director, at erin@wvbg.org.

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Exhibit 60 Art Show at MAAJuried show open to MAA members and others within a sixty-mile radius of Morgantown

The Morgantown Art Association (MAA) Gallery hosts the 57th Exhibit 60 Art Show from March 26 through June 3. Exhibit 60 is a juried show open to all MAA members and offered to all other fine artists within a sixty-mile radius of Morgantown. Exhibit 60 includes oils, watercolors, photography, sculpture, jewelry, beadwork, and other arts. All works are juried. The juror this year is Mr. Frank Webb, AWS, NWS, a nationally and internationally renowned watercolor artist from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Mr. Webb is a Dolphin Fellow of the American Watercolor Society, has master status in the Transparent Watercolor Society of America, and is listed in Who’s Who in American Art. The opening reception for Exhibit 60 will be held on March 30 starting at 6:30 pm and is open to the public. The prospectus for Exhibit 60 and information about the workshop can be picked up at the MAA Gallery located at

the Mountaineer Mall on Green Bag Road in Morgantown. A digital copy is available by request to maagallery@frontier.com.

Mr. Webb will also be conducting a watercolor workshop at the MAA Gallery on March 26–29 for artists from around the region. In the workshop, example-by-example, artists will learn how to compose and express their own vision. All demonstrations and critiques will stress composition. The aim is to paint a powerful picture and—equally important—learn how to analyze and improve a work that has gone wrong. According to Webb, “composition is the gravity that holds a painting together. It is a matter of deliberately creating right relations of the parts to the whole. Composition is what turns a painting into art.”

Gallery hours are Tuesday through Friday 10 am to 4 pm. For more information about the MAA and Exhibit 60, call 304.291.5900.

Springtime Serenity by Karel R. Schubert, Juried photo from the 54th Exhibit 60

Feature / Exhibit 60 Art Show

We cater! Gift Cards available

The Region’s First and Only Coal Fired Pizzeria Trattoria and Wine Bar

Locally Owned and Operated

304.808.6400miamargherita.com

I-79 at Exit 124

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RAMADA CONFERENCE CENTER MORgANTOwNHotel / Bar & Grill / Wedding Planning

Enjoy a rustic escape with modern convenience at the Ramada Morgantown Hotel & Conference Center. Centrally located off Interstates 68 and 79 in Morgantown, WV, near West Virginia University, our hotel offers a stress-free escape from the everyday. Get a jump on a day of excitement with a free hot breakfast each morning, and unwind with a relaxing meal in our Heritage Room restaurant. Spend a night in, order room service and stretch out in one of our Jacuzzi suites. Join us in the Wit’s End Lounge for the latest in local entertainment and happy hour specials!

Variety of weekly entertainment: Comedy Nights (first and third Friday of each month) • Karaoke Nights • Extended Stays • Ballroom for weddings, pageants, proms or any special events • On- and off-site catering • Each room offers refrigerators, microwaves, coffeemaker • Restaurant and Lounge • On-site laundry and work out facility • Free shuttle, internet, and parking

20 Scott Avenue, Morgantown, WV 265081.800.834.9766 / 304.296.3431www.ramadainnwv.com

New faces, new entertainment, and new menus!

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The WV Community Development HubWorking for West Virginia

If you’re from West Virginia, you know the strength of the Mountain State is its people, who are pragmatic as well as fiercely proud of their home. But do you know about a statewide non-profit organization that is having a huge impact on the welfare and well-being of West Virginia and its people? The West Virginia Community Development Hub

works with numerous other organizations to engage people from all corners of the state in sharing their ideas and energy about how WV should move into the future.

We’ve all seen the lists that rank West Virginia near the bottom in so many quality of life measurements—we have high percentages of

obesity and other unhealthy lifestyles, and we have received low ratings for education and overall happiness. Despite substantial investments and development efforts, West Virginia’s communities continue to struggle. The Hub has conducted research and determined that lack of improvement has been due to a lack of consistency and

alignment, and a lack of capacity at the community level to take advantage of resources and services.

For the past six years, the Hub, a merger of two previously existing non-profit organizations primarily funded by the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation, has been helping

“The Hub is a critical catalyst in stirring the winds of change that are bringing forth new hope in West Virginia.”

—State Senator John Unger

Feature / WV Community Development Hub

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communities come together to set goals for their future, and to connect them to the rich network of resources they need to meet those goals. The Hub is a connector that networks organizations to help launch their initiatives; it provides resources to help communities identify issues, obstacles, and plans for moving forward as a community. The Hub has resources to help:

• Convene community conversations

• Train community leaders

• Recruit volunteers

• Build infrastructure

• Reclaim abandoned buildings

• Sustain healthy food production

• Teach political action

• Develop small businesses

• Adopt healthy lifestyles

• Find funding for projects

• Foster community life

Although the Hub was originally designed to work behind the scenes, it has found it needs to share its success stories and best practices in order to maximize effectiveness. The Hub’s most important function is getting people and organizations in the community development sector to set aside their self-interests and collaborate to achieve what is in the best interests of the communities we all serve.

To accomplish this work, the Hub takes four very different, but interconnected, approaches.

Community-Based Capacity Building is reflected in initiatives such Blueprint Communities, HubCAP, and Turn This Town Around. It works with geographic communities such as municipalities or counties. This approach focuses on building teams and helping them get started—training and practicing build a sustainable structure.

It is supported principally by the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation.

Community Development Sector Support involves working with communities of interest and is reflected in initiatives such as the WV Food & Farm Coalition, the BAD Building Coalition, VISTA, WV First and the WV Physical Activities Network. This approach is done at a statewide level and is funded by a variety of sources.

Community-Based Policy Change recognizes the importance of the connection between community change and policy change, and seeks to support community change through appropriate policy change. This approach focuses on relationship-building; it allows community members to address their policy issues and obstacles, while teaching them how to effectively speak up. This approach is largely funded by Mary Reynolds Babcock Foundation.

Network Communications is the pipeline that communicates about community development work, and is becoming as important as the work itself. It focuses initially on the Our Children Our Future and What’s Next WV campaigns. This approach is designed to share what works and what doesn’t in order to maximize effectiveness of successes realized through the other approaches. This approach is largely funded by the Blue Moon Fund.

Five dedicated employees, working with many other organizations and individuals, perform this work across the state. To find out more information about the Hub, visit http://wvhub.org/ and like the Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/WVHub.

Feature / WV Community Development Hub

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Feature / Try This West Virginia

Try This West VirginiaWorking to help West Virginia build healthier communities

The WV Community Development Hub is one of twenty statewide partners in the Try This West Virginia coalition. The Try This coalition aims to help knock West Virginia off the top of the worst health lists, community by community. We believe the answer is at the local level.

Try This West Virginia hosts an annual Try This conference for local people who want to build healthier communities.  The first conference featured 30 workshops and 98 presenters and drew more than 400 people! This year’s conference, scheduled for June 5-6, 2015 on the campus of West Virginia Wesleyan, will feature 40 workshops—focusing on a myriad of subjects from farmers markets and school gardens to school-based health centers and parks. Make plans to attend early: http://www.trythiswv.com and click the “conference” square.

The Try This West Virginia website, http://www.trythiswv.com/, offers  practical, affordable ways to make it easier for people in your community  to move more and eat healthy food. The site is evidence-based, grounded in the socio-ecological model of health promotion, and rooted on the premise that people can make healthy changes in their lifestyles more easily if healthy choices are available in their community. It supplies how-to information for people who want to create those choices. Resources include healthy eating programs, community gardens, school activities, group fitness programs, sources for funding, and more. All of the hundreds of photos on the Try This site

were taken in West Virginia, of successful model projects, to disprove the idea that positive change is not possible here.

Try This offers mini-grants for teams that want to carry out healthy lifestyle projects in their communities.  In the first year, Try This distributed $82,000 in mini-grants to 42 community teams. Many of the communities used their mini-grant as seed money to get matching funds and donated resources and volunteer time!  The initiative also hosts a year-round program comprising workshops, social media, and on-the-ground organizers to help local people plan projects, carry out long-term planning, find resources, and get training.

What Can You and Your Business Do to Promote Healthy Activity?The Hub and the Try This Movement are partnering to support The WV Physical Activity Network (WVPAN). WVPAN aims to increase physical activity in West Virginia. It will assist communities in creating the culture needed to guide West Virginians into a more physically active lifestyle, to improve health and quality of life.

You can help spread the word about the importance of physical activity by participating in the WVPAN Launch April 12-18. Get Active! Take a Healthy Selfie! Tag it #ActiveWV

Contact a.yager@wvhub.org to obtain a WV Physical Activity Network commitment form, then recruit your team so we can help make West Virginia a healthier place to live!

West Virginia has more miles of rail trail per capita than any other state.

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MAC Hosts Artist Networking EventBy Samantha Rose, Media and Advertising Coordinator, MAC

Nurturing, inspiring, empowering, and supporting have all been used to describe Monongalia Arts Center’s (MAC’s) monthly Artist Networking Event (ANE), held from 5:30–7 pm on the third Tuesday of each month. All artists are invited to join MAC for refreshments and networking during this event and are welcome to stop by for a short period or stay for the entire time. The ANE does not have an admission fee and is open to artists from all disciplines.

Founded by MAC’s Executive Director, Ro Brooks, in August 2014, MAC’s ANE has become a place for local artists of all disciplines and lovers of the arts to gather, network, and make our community a more artful home. According to Brooks, the purpose of the event is to provide artists in Monongalia County and the surrounding region with an opportunity to connect with fellow artists in a relaxed social setting. MAC’s vision for the ANEs is to be a resource for and voice of the vibrant, local arts community. Brooks adds, “It is our intent to make this a worthwhile and meaningful event for our arts community...where relationships are developed and collaboration happens.”

During the March 17 event, in addition to the ANE’s usual proceedings, MAC will host a chance drawing for a chainsaw wood carving depicting a female torso by regional artist, Scott Harper. All proceeds from the

drawing for Scott Harper’s piece, which is currently on display in the MAC Lobby, will go toward supporting MAC performance art programming, including MACplayers productions, MACglee, and U-92 live broadcasts from MAC.

Drawing tickets are available now via the MACstore at www.monartscenter.com/shop, via phone at 304.292.3325, or in person at the MAC Lobby Desk. Chances are $5 each or 5 for $20. With the proceeds of this drawing,

MAC hopes to be able to continue to bring fresh, unique performance art programming to Morgantown, WV.

MAC is located at 107 High Street, Morgantown. Inquires should be directed to info@monartscenter.com or 304.292.3325.

Feature / MAC Hosts Artist Networking Event

“We want this to resemble a Business After Hours but for artists and patrons of the arts. A gathering wherein artists from all disciplines—visual, literary, and performance art—and arts supporters can come together to meet and talk about, what else, Art.” Ro Brooks

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Feature / Marshall Keys

After the Marshall Keys and The Cool Cats jazz show, scheduled for Friday, April 17, at Washington Square in Clarksburg sold out in ten days, a second performance has been scheduled for Saturday, April 18, in the same location.

From mainstream to contemporary, from bebop to hip-hop, Marshall Keys plays the alto saxophone with a sense of grace and emotion that is wholly without cliché. Keys represents as high a level of musicianship as can be found anywhere, and his versatility and strong sense of melody have made him somewhat of an icon in his native Washington, DC. He is known among jazz critics as a highly skilled interpreter of improvisational music in its many forms and his performance schedule reflects this diversity.

In Key’s earlier collaborations with The Cool Cats, the atmosphere on stage was enthralling; the only sound from the audience was applause punctuated with shouts of joy. Cool Cats guitarist and vocalist, Seth Maynard, said Keys brings out the best in the band’s players. “We all look forward to the shows with Marshall. Simply stated, everyone in the audience and everyone in the band has a real good time. The joy is palpable.” The Cool Cats includes Pittsburgh keyboardist, Randraiz Wharton, on Hammond B3 organ, and Chris Newsome on drums. Maynard and Newsome are from Elkins, WV.

The April 18 performance assumes sufficient interest. Tickets cost $35 and are on sale through March 17. The WV Jazz Society is offering a unique opportunity for jazz enthusiasts to join the WVJS for $36 per year and receive one ticket to the Saturday night Marshall Keys event for free. WVJS members are eligible for additional discounted tickets for selected shows, advance notice of shows, preferred seating, and personal delivery of the WVJS newsletter Improvisation.

To order tickets or memberships, phone 304.269.3683 or email WVJazzSociety@aol.com

Marshall Keys Performance Sells Out In Ten Days!Second show scheduled for April 18

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Feature / West Virginia Comedy Festival

West Virginia Comedy Festival Premiers in MarchThe Vintage Theatre Company and its comedy troupe, The Fearless Fools, will host festival

The inaugural West Virginia Comedy Festival is scheduled for March 26-28, 2015 at the Bridgeport Country Club. Steve Goff is Director of the VTC Fearless Fools, the area’s only year-round professional comedy troupe. He will host the festival, featuring three nights of performances by comedians from all over the state.

Thursday night will feature a Stand-Up Showdown at 7 pm. This comedy competition will be open to anyone who wants to test his or her comedic ability. The winner will get the opportunity to open for festival headliner Bil Lepp on Saturday night.

Friday evening at 7 pm, the festival’s Stand-Up Showcase will feature the talent of West Virginia’s best solo comedians. Then at 9 pm, the Charleston-based improv team, The No Pants Players, will perform.

VTC’s comedy troupe, The Fearless Fools, will perform their unique blend of short form and long form improv comedy on Saturday night 7 pm. Internationally known storyteller

and humorist Bil Lepp, a five-time champion of the West Virginia Liars Competition, will headline the festival Saturday at 9 pm. Lepp is an award-winning author and recording artist and has been featured at venues across the nation, including a recent appearance on Comedy Central. Lepp is the recipient of the Storytelling Circle of Excellence Award.

In addition to the evening performances, the festival will also feature two workshops, one focused on improv and another focused on comedy writing, on Saturday morning. There is also a late afternoon open forum improv jam.

Tickets for the West Virginia Comedy Festival are available through The Vintage Theatre Company by calling 1-855-VTC-8588 or by emailing VintageTheatreCo@gmail.com. Individual tickets for Thursday night are $12, and Friday and Saturday night tickets are $25 each. Festival passes may be purchased for $50. The festival pass allows access to all festival events, including performances, workshops, and the improv jam.

Feature / Talking Jazz!

EvEntsMarch 6-8 Culinary Classic Stonewall ResortMarch 8, 12-20 Irish Spring Festival

March 28 Paperweight Circle Show & Sale Glass Museum, 10 am-3 pm

April 1 Arnold Palmer Signature Golf Course Opening Stonewall ResortApril 4 Historic Tours Open Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum (TALA)

April 5 10,000 Easter Egg Hunt Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum (TALA)April 11 Weston 5K Run City of Weston

GEt out of town!

visit lewis county

mountainlakescvb.com888-238-8881

for all your travel & tourism needs

Feature / Some Thoughts on Snow Sports

EvEntsMarch 6-8 Culinary Classic Stonewall ResortMarch 8, 12-20 Irish Spring Festival

March 28 Paperweight Circle Show & Sale Glass Museum, 10 am-3 pm

April 1 Arnold Palmer Signature Golf Course Opening Stonewall ResortApril 4 Historic Tours Open Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum (TALA)

April 5 10,000 Easter Egg Hunt Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum (TALA)April 11 Weston 5K Run City of Weston

GEt out of town!

visit lewis county

mountainlakescvb.com888-238-8881

for all your travel & tourism needs

®

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Feature / Mountaineer Balloon Festival

ServicesBridgeport, Clarksburg, Fairmont, and Morgantown areasMVB Most Valuable Bankmvbbanking.com / Numerous locations and grow-ing. Check out our website for the bank nearest you! We are a vibrant community bank founded on the principles of honesty, respect and accountability. MVB takes great pride in providing sound solutions for all your financial needs, from high interest check-ing, to home loans, business loans, and beyond. Our teamwork approach is designed to deliver extraordi-nary products and services, every day.

Morgantown areaJ. Douglas Crane, LC cranewvlaw.com / 150 Pleasant St, Morgantown / 304.292.3037 Call us when you need help with issues in the areas of family law, bankruptcy, corporate business, and estate planning. Mon–Fri 9am–5pm

Groom groomstyleformen.com / 1006 Northpointe Plaza, Morgantown / 304.241.5634

At GROOM we are doing things differently. Our focus is to provide an amazing salon experience for men. Walk-in to GROOM and get a great haircut with style know-how. Relax with a scalp and neck massage topped off with a hot towel, then take in a little TV and a beverage. Walk out with style that is sure to please. Tues–Fri 10 am–6 pm / Sat 9 am–3 pm.

Lauran Kirk Hair Artistry (LKHA)lkhasalon.com / 1003 Northpointe Plaza, Morgantown / 304.296.5542 Experience Lauran Kirk Hair Artistry. Experience the relaxation of the wash house, explore the inventiveness of the color bar, and gain style know-how at the toolbar or take home gallery. Learn how our team approach can benefit you, especially when schedules get busy. Our combined efforts will change your expectations of a salon experience. Tues–Thur 9 am–7 pm / Fri 9 am–5 pm / Sat 9 am–3 pm / Closed Sun and Mon.

RE/MAX Real Estate Professionalsremax.com / 709 Beechurst Avenue, Suite 24, Sene-ca Center, Morgantown / 304.292.3900 Located in Historic Seneca Center, we are a full-time, full-service real estate office featuring residential and commercial real estate sales, accredited buyer agents, and real estate appraisals.

The Mountaineer Balloon Festival Returns to Morgantown!Beloved festival returns October 1–4, 2015

Yes, they’re back! After a five-year hiatus, the beloved festival is returning Thursday, October 1 through Sunday, October 4 at Mylan Park in Morgantown. Long-time residents will recall the excitement of watching 35 or more balloons take off and soar against brilliant blue October skies.

The festival started in the 80s and was originally held at the Morgantown Municipal Airport. Several of the Thursday kick-off events also took place in the WVU Coliseum parking lot. As the festival grew, it moved to Mylan Park, where it returns in October.

We’ll run another story closer in, but in the meantime, check out the University Motors Mountaineer Balloon Festival website,

www.ummbf.com/, for updated information about the festival, photos from past festivals, and links to educational resources including The History of Ballooning www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/space/short-history-of-ballooning.html. Also, like them on Facebook, www.facebook.com/ummbf.

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Feature / Chef on the Move

Paid advertising in Three Cities includes an ad placement, a listing in the Advertiser Directory, and an internet presence on Facebook and on the Three Cities website, threecitieswv.com. If your business or service area is interested in becoming an advertiser, please contact us at dkwvpublications@frontier.com.

advertising with

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Calendar of EventsThrough end of March | Walking with Dinosaurs, Ice Age & BeyondFeatures several museum quality skeletal displays including the Wooly Mammoth. Harrison County Recreation Complex/4H Center (at 43 Recreation Drive on Rt. 19 S in Clarksburg.) Admission is free; open to the Public W-Fri 4–8 pm. Saturdays Noon–6 pm. Sundays 2–6 pm. Closed Mondays. Tues-days open to groups by appointment only. 304.423.7800

March 1 *Every Sunday (except last of month) | Jenny and Nathan Wilson Jazz DuoTerra Café, 11 am–2 pm

March 1 | Zodiak TrioTrio (clarinet, violin, and piano) enjoys an in-ternational concert schedule that spans three continents, has been broadcast by France 3 Television, Beijing’s CCTV News, Canada’s CBC Radio and Television, NBC, New York’s WXQR and WNYC, featured live on WGBH’s “Live from Frasier” in Boston, and has record-ed multiple times for Radio France in Paris. 3 pm. St. Peter the Fisherman Church, Fairmont. Tickets are $10; $6 for Seniors and Students. www.fairmontchambermusic.com

March 1 | Anything Goes Winner of three 2011 Tony Awards including Best Musical Revival and Choreography. Cole Porter comedy includes “I Get a Kick out of You,” “You’re the Top” and of course, “Anything Goes.” Don’t miss what the Associated Press exclaims as “So delightful, so delicious, so de-lovely!” WVU Creative Arts Center. 7:30 pm

March 1, 5, 6, 7, 8 | What the Bellhop SawLive Community Theatre. A farce by Billy Van Zandt & Jane Millmore, directed by Rex Kelch. Come see this funny show about a bellhop trying to sneak his accountant brother into a hotel room so he can woo his secretary while unbeknownst to them the hotel manager has arranged for an author who is being hunted down by a terrorist assassin for writing a book that has offended his leader. When the accountant’s wife shows up, things get really crazy. Add to the action an inept CIA agent, a maid who wants to be a famous actress, the

author’s 8-year-old daughter, and the poor guest in the next room and you have a recipe for hilarious bedlam. March 5, 6, 7 at 7:30 pm; March 1 and 8 at 2 pm at the Friedland-er’s Center (home of Starving Artists Studio, 354 W Main St, Clarksburg). Seats: $10; or reserve a table for 8 for $70. Reservations: email act2theatre@gmail.com or leave a message at 304.918.0010

March 2 | Tchaikovsky and ProkofievPittsburgh Symphony Orchestra Canady Symphony Series. Two of the most popular ballet scores are distilled into symphonic suites by Manfred Honeck and the Pittsburgh Symphony. Today, we take Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake for granted as a commercial success, but Tchaikovsky died believing it to be a failure. Presented later as a memorial tribute to the composer, it finally took wing and is now in-stantly recognizable to music and dance lovers everywhere. Prokofiev›s Romeo and Juliet is the musical equal of Shakespeare’s literary mas-terpiece. It is musical storytelling at its dazzling best. WVU Creative Arts Center. 7:30 pm

March 3 (every Tuesday) | FREE Swing Dance LessonsAll-ages dancing Downtown every Tuesday at Chic-N-Bones Rhythm Cafe. Dance lesson provided for beginners and intermediates. Even beginning Jitterbugs can dance the night away! Doors open at 7 pm, dance lesson at 7:15 pm, social dancing until 10 pm. No cover, but donations welcome. Morgantown Swing. www.facebook.com/MorgantownSwing

March 3 (most Tuesdays) | Open Life DrawingMAC hosts a two-hour, uninstructed weekly life drawing session with a live model on most Tuesdays from 7–9 pm. Participants may not be younger than 18 years of age. Easels are provided. $10. Walk-ins are welcome, although we recommend calling ahead to confirm space availability. Monon-galia Arts Center, High Street, Morgantown. monartscenter.com, 304.292.3325

March 4 & 11 | Drawing Classes Continuation of the Morgantown Art Associ-

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ation’s offer of Drawing Classes in the MAA Gallery with students from the West Virginia University School of Art and Design from 12 noon to 2 pm. Cost for four classes $30. Mor-gantown Art Association, Morgantown Mall. 304.291.5900

March 4 (every Wednesday) | Wine Wednesday Every Wednesday is Wine Wednesday! A nice selection of red and white wines for your enjoyment with dinner–only $10 per bottle. You must order an entree. Offer is good for parties of two or more from 5: 30–8:30 pm. Cafe Bacchus. 304.296.9234

March 4 (every Wednesday) | Old Time Appalachian JamJoin us at the Brew Pub every Wednesday for Live Old Time Appalachian Jam All musicians welcome to jam. No cover. 9 pm

March 5–25 | Fourth Annual Photography Contest The Morgantown Art Association’s 4th Annual Photography Contest is open to the public. Tuesday–Thursday, March 5–25, 10 am–4 pm. Morgantown Art Association, Morgantown Mall. 304.291.5900

March 6 (every Friday) | Karaoke NightBecome a star by singing your favorite songs! Dos Hermanos II, Country Club Road, Fair-mont. 9–11:45 pm. 681.404.6033

March 6 | The SpinnersThe Spinners have 12 gold records, 18 Top 40 hits, and six Grammy nominations to their credit. Original member Henry Fambrough is joined onstage by lead singer Charlton Washington, high tenor Marvin Taylor, tenor Ronnie Moss and bass singer Jessie Peck. Hear “Working My Way Back to You,” “Then Came You,” “Games People Play,” “The Rub-berband Man.” Creative Arts Center’s Lyell B. Clay Theatre. 7:30 pm

March 6–28 | SymmetriesThe work of Sharon Lyn Stackpole will be on display in Monongalia Arts Center’s Benedum Gallery from Mar. 6–28. Her show, “Symme-tries,” explores the balances we find in our relationships with ourselves, each other, and the greater community along life’s journey. The public opening reception will be held on

March 6 from 6–8 pm. The opening reception and exhibit viewing are open to the public and do not have an admission fee.

March 10 | Harry ManxCanadian Blues Award Winner. Proceeds benefit the Monongalia County Child Advo-cacy Center. 8 pm. The Metropolitan Theatre, Morgantown. Tickets $25, available at The Dominion Post, Fawley Music, Black Bear, BOPARC, and The Metropolitan Theatre. harrymanx.com

March 13, 27, and April 10 | Rus Reppert From Bridgeport, WV, musician Rus Rep-pert combines techniques such as tapping, looping, and alternate tunings to give his fingerstyle guitar a life of its own. Blending elements of Appalachian, Celtic, Jazz and Blues, Rus’ ambitious original pieces create a unique vibe all their own. Using a looper on some material, he makes full arrangements, complete with percussion, basslines, and melodies, creating a ‘one man band’ type ensemble. With the addition of his earthy and soulful vocals, his sound satisfies a broad range of music fans all over the Mid-Atlantic region. Table 9, Morgantown. 7 pm.

March 14 | The Nerd Herd Pi-Mile 5K Run at I-79 Technology ParkThe Nerd Herd Pi-Mile Run will kick off at 9 am in the Alan B. Mollohan Innovation Center parking lot and will take runners and walkers on a great tour of the Tech Park. I-79 Technol-ogy Park, Fairmont, WV Proceeds of this event will benefit the United Way of Marion County, a 501 (c) (3) organization. Call 304.333.6777

March 14 | Indoor Colonial Kids Games and Storytelling Play the games and hear the stories that were popular during the time of our founding fathers. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Pricketts Fort Visitor Center. 10 am–4 pm. $4 per person

March 14 | Water, Water!Hands-on, project based Science Saturdays workshop designed for students 8 to 14, and led by Jacob Fishel, MSE, PE. 9 am–noon. Did you ever wonder how you get clean drinking water to your faucet? Well, simple science takes dirty river water and makes it clean and

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safe to drink. Through hands on activities, students will gain an understanding of how the hydrological cycle works and how we are able to treat the water to make it safe to drink. Learning Options, 305 Songbird Lane, Fairmont. www.LearningOptionsInc.org

March 14 | Water, Water! Water-Based CraftHands-on, project based After Art workshop designed for students 8 to 14, and led by Eliz-abeth Sorensen, BFA Studio Art. 1–4 pm. Have you ever painted with water? Well, come learn how to use water and ink and learn an ancient Japanese technique for decorating paper with ink called Suminagashi. Learning Options, 305 Songbird Lane, Fairmont. www.LearningOptionsInc.org

March 14–15 | Collograph Class Eddie ‘Spaghetti’ Maier will offer a class in collograph at the Morgantown Art Association Gallery from 11 am to 3 pm. Cost is $30; all materials will be provided. Morgantown Art Association, Morgantown Mall. 304.291.5900

March 14 | The Taming of the ShrewThe Taming of the Shrew is brought to MAC’s Tanner Theatre by the Vintage Theatre Com-pany’s Rustic Mechanicals, West Virginia’s only Shakespeare troupe. 8 pm. Admission to the show is $10, and tickets are available online at www.monartscenter.com/shop, via phone at 304.292.3325, and at the MAC Lobby Desk

March 14 | The Fabulous Hubcaps Oldies Dance/Show Dance the night away and or sit back and watch the performance. A fundraiser for Mon General Hospital. Lakeview Resort and Con-ference Center. 8–11:35 pm. $22 per person. Contact Debbie Harn, harnd@monhealthsys.org, 304.598.1337

March 14 | Irish and old time dance! Old time dance and Irish dance under the leadership of Joyce Rossbach and Marianne Odoherty. Live music by Wee Bluet and tasty refreshments too! Marilla Center. 8–10:30 pm. $3 students, $5 adults. Contact Cindy O’Brien, cobandyo@frontier.com

March 14 | Holly Spears Mon County’s own singer, songwriter, and guitarist performs pop, rock, folk, country, and Christian music. All proceeds benefit the Rotary Club of Morgantown. Metropol-itan Theatre, Morgantown. $20 tickets are available at Jameson’s, Jerseys, The Dominion Post, Rotary Club members, and online at hollyspears.com. 8 pm.

March 15–WorkshopMarch 24, 31, April 7, 14, 21, 28, May 5, 12–Class Dates | The Cha-Cha The Cha-Cha’s rhythm is incorporated into most forms of American music ranging from big band to country to rock to pop. Marilla Center. BOPARC Workshop: Sunday from 6 pm to 8 pm, Class Time: 6 pm to 7:30 pm

March 15 | Mountain StageActs include The Barr Brothers, Mary Gauth-ier, Allison Moorer, Carlos Nunez, and More. WVU Creative Arts Center. 7 pm. All Tickets General Admission. $18 in advance, $25 day-of-show, WVU Students: $5 Limit: One discounted ticket per valid WVU Student I.D. Discount valid at campus box offices and 304.293.SHOW only.

March 17, April 21 (every third Tuesday of each month) | Artist Networking EventArtists of all disciplines are invited to attend Monongalia Arts Center’s (MAC’s) Artist Net-working Event (ANE), held on the third Tues-day of each month from 5:30–7 pm. Purpose is to provide artists in Monongalia County and the surrounding region an opportunity to connect with fellow artists in a relaxed social setting. Similar to a Business After Hours for artists and patrons of the arts. This event does not have an admission fee and is open to artists from all disciplines. (see related article on page 23).

March 17 | Chance drawing supporting MAC arts programmingChance drawing for a one of a kind chainsaw wood carving depicting a female torso by re- gional artist, Scott Harper, which is currently on display in the MAC Lobby. All proceeds from the drawing will go toward supporting MAC performance art programming, including MACplayers productions, MACglee, and U-92 live broadcasts from MAC. Chances are $5 each

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or 5 for $20. Drawing tickets are available via the MACstore at www.monartscenter.com/shop, via phone at 304.292.3325, or in person at the MAC Lobby Desk. The drawing will occur during the March 17 Artist Networking Event (ANE).

March 19, April 16 (every third Thursday of each month) | Morgantown PoetsMorgantown Poets is an informal, not-for-profit, all-volunteer community group that meets from 7–9 pm on the third Thursday of each month at Monongalia Arts Center (MAC), providing literary enthusiasts in north-cen-tral West Virginia the opportunity to express themselves, share their work, and network and to connect up-and-coming writers with more established authors. New writers are welcome. There is no admission fee.

March 20 | Don FelderA four-time Grammy Award winner, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame member, New York Times bestselling author, and captivating performer, Felder is best known as a former lead gui-tarist of The Eagles, one of the most popular and influential rock groups of our time. He co-wrote “Hotel California,” one of rock’s all-time greatest tracks. He is celebrated for his lyrical, signature guitar work on “One of These Nights,” “New Kid in Town,” and many more. WVU Creative Arts Center. 7:30 pm

March 21 | Tree Pruning DemonstrationUrban forester Liz Moss will present a slide show on the hows and whys behind proper tree pruning followed by a demonstration. Please bring your own gloves and eye protection. Bring clean, sharp pruning tools if you have them. WV Botanic Garden, Morgantown. 1-4 pm

March 21 | A Bit of the Blarney St. Patrick’s Day Celebration It’s “A Bit of the Blarney,” a St. Patrick’s Day celebration, when everyone becomes Irish! Aurora Celtic, a Preston County band who has been featured on NPR’s Thistle and Shamrock program, will make you feel you’re right at home in Ireland. WVU’s Irish Dance Club, an Irish song sing-along, and an Irish dinner which includes Irish stew, Irish soda bread, and Irish desserts. $30 with dinner, $15 with-out dinner. 7 pm. Preston Community Arts Center, Kingwood. Contact JoAnn Peterson at mountaineer@atlanticbb.net, 304.329.6336

March 26 | Composting 101: Make Waste Work for You! Sandra Cress of the Sierra Club will demon-strate the basics, answer all questions, and let you get your hands in the soil, demon-strating techniques and delving into less usual approaches, including worm bins. Bring a pair of garden gloves! Morgantown Public Library. 6–7:30 pm. Free and open to public. Contact Pamela Cubberly, Pamela@Cubberly.net, 703.218.5417

March 26–29 | Spring Watercolor Workshop MAA Watercolor workshop with Frank Webb will be held on March 26–29. The workshop is currently full. Please contact the Gallery if you wish to be placed on a waiting list. Mor-gantown Art Association, Morgantown Mall. 304.291.5900

March 26–June 3 | Exhibit 60The Morgantown Art Association will host the 61st Exhibit 60, a juried show present-ing works of regional artists including oils, acrylics, watercolors, photography, digital art, and sculpture. Morgantown Art Association, Morgantown Mall. 304.291.5900. (see related article on page 16.)

March 26–28 | West Virginia Comedy FestivalThe Inaugural West Virginia Comedy Festival will feature 3 nights of performances by the state’s very best comedians headlined by a show from champion liar Bil Lepp. For info, tickets, or more contact: The Vintage Theatre Company at 1.855.882.8588 or VintageThe-atreCo@Gmail.com. Bridgeport Country Club, Bridgeport (see related article on page 25)

March 27 | Woodcock/Owl WalkTerry Bronson will lead a search for Amer-ican Woodcocks displaying over the old reservoir from sunset to dusk, followed by a walk through the adjacent woods in search of barred and any other owls that might be present. Dress warmly and bring a flashlight. WV Botanic Garden. 7:30 pm

March 28 | African Style Batik Fabric Printing and DyeingEddie Spaghetti will conduct an African-style batik fabric printing and dyeing class at

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Calendar of Events

Monongalia Arts Center (MAC) from 11 am–5 pm. Participants will create a cotton scarf as well as several other fabric pieces. This class is open to all ages. Class fee is $40. To register, contact Eddie at 814.322.6463 or morkthedork@hotmail.com.

April 4 | Nature HikeMaster Naturalists are volunteering to lead this hike. Join them for a spring walk. Hike begins at the Tygart Lake State Park (Grafton) Nature Center at 10 am. Explore what Mother Nature has to offer this spring guided by Master Naturalists Gary Niezgoda and Dorothy Hood. Call for more information, 304.265.6148

April 4 | Easter Egg Hunt/ Easter Basket TailgateChildren travel from tailgate to tailgate filling their Easter Baskets, then vote for their favor-ite tailgate station. If you would like to set up a tailgate booth, help prepare for or volunteer at the event, email johnp.mcparc@gmail.com or call 304.363.7037. Event is scheduled for noon-4 pm at Palatine Park, Fairmont

April 9 | Bela Fleck and Abigail Washburn Banjoists Béla Fleck and Abigail Washburn have mastered the deceptively intricate art of the duet. Fleck is known for his viruosic, jazz-to-classical ingenuity and as an iconic instrumentalist and composer with bluegrass roots. Washburn brings the earthly sophisti-cation of a postmodern, old-time singer- songwriter to the mix. WVU Creative Arts Center. 7:30 pm

April 9–12 | School of the Longhunter An intense weekend of instruction exploring the role of early frontiersmen on the American frontier. Space is limited and registration required. Pricketts Fort. PFMF Members $54, Non-members $60. Thursday pm to Sunday noon. Call 304.363.3030

April 11 | Gelatin Printmaking Workshop*Allow Nature to be your MUSE! Gelatin printing uses a pan of Knox gelatin which is inked up with water-based ink. Join local artist Eddie Maier as you create unique prints using leaves and other elements of nature. *Advance registration is required at least one week prior to workshops or classes.

Visit www.wvbg.org to register. $25 WVBG members; $30 non-members. Kids under 12 half price. WV Botanic Garden, Morgantown. 11 am–2 pm

April 11 | Morgantown Friends of Old Time Music Dance! Put some spring in your step at our dance this month with music by the Allegheny Highbal-lers and calling by Mike Costello. Come alone or bring a friend: no partner required. Re-freshments included. Marilla Center. 8-10:30 pm. $3 students, $5 adults. Visit www.morgantowndance.com for more information and to sign up for automatic reminders!

April 11 | Exploring Math in NatureHands-on, project based Science Saturdays workshop designed for students 8 to 14, and led by Beth Thompson, MS. 9 am–noon. Would you like to use spider webs, pine cones, butterfly wings, and seashells to learn about math? Join a mathematical journey into the natural world around us. Through a series of hands-on activities and demonstrations, students will learn about symmetry, geome-try, and patterns found in nature while being introduced to concepts such as the Fibonacci sequence, fractals, pi, and the Golden Ratio. Learning Options, 305 Songbird Lane, Fair-mont. www.LearningOptionsInc.org

April 11 | Exploring Math in Nature— Making Art with Math Hands-on, project based After Art workshop designed for students 8 to 14, and led by Elizabeth Sorensen, BFA Studio Art. 1–4 pm. After learning about mathematical problems in nature, learn how to make geometric patterns in cloth and try out some of the patterns you just learned about. Learning Options, 305 Songbird Lane, Fairmont. www.LearningOptionsInc.org

April 12 | Mountain StageActs include Milk Carton Kids, Feufollet and More. WVU Creative Arts Center. 7 pm. All Tickets General Admission. $18 in advance, $25 day-of-show, WVU Students: $5 Limit: One discounted ticket per valid WVU Student I.D. Discount valid at campus box offices and 304.293.SHOW only.

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Calendar of Events

April 15, 22, 29 | Acrylics Classes In cooperation with West Virginia University School of Art and Design, Morgantown Art Association will offer classes in acrylic paint-ing. Cost for three classes $30. 5 to 7:50 pm. Morgantown Art Association, Morgantown Mall. 304.291.5900

April 16 | Harlem Globetrotters The iconic Harlem Globetrotters are coming to the WVU Coliseum in Morgantown, WV with their unrivaled family show, featuring some of the greatest athletes on the planet. With incredible ball handling wizardry, amazing rim-rattling dunks and trick shots, side-split-ting comedy and unequaled on-court fan interaction, this must-see event is guaranteed to entertain the whole family creating memo-ries that will last a lifetime. Join Globetrotter stars after the game where they will stay for an autograph, photograph and high five session for fans (subject to availability). WVU Coliseum. 7 pm.

April 17 | Viva! Las Vegas Casino Night At the Waterfront Hotel, celebrate the colorful history of Las Vegas with a night of entertain-ment, casino fun, dinner, and colorful cos-tumes. Proceeds go to Operation Welcome Home, helping veterans find jobs. Cocktails, 6–7 pm; Dinner and Comedy, 7 pm; Casino Open, 8–10 pm; DJ, 10 pm–12 midnight. Res-ervations, 304.983.1014

April 18, April 25 | Annual Spring Bird WalksCelebrate the joys of spring with a Saturday morning bird walk. Staff of the West Virginia Department of Natural Resources will lead the public on this annual rite of passage. Wear sturdy walking shoes and bring binoc-ulars if you have them. Pricketts Fort State Park. 8 am. Free and open to the public. 304.363.3030

April 18 | Mountaineer State History Expo A collection of over 30 local historical societ-ies, museums, and organizations will meet to share with the public a wide variety of WV history with exhibits, music, family activities, food, presentations and performances at the historic Marion County Courthouse in Fairmont, one of the National Registry of His-torical Sites. Free admission. 10 am–3 pm

April 18 | Chocolate Lovers’ Day Main Street Morgantown is hosting its 16th Annual Chocolate Lovers’ Day from 11 am-3 pm in the Downtown and Historic Wharf Downtown of Morgantown. Chocolate Lovers’ Day is a one-day chocolate extravaganza, in-viting the public to indulge themselves in an array of chocolate creations. For only $5 per person (children under 5 are free), registrants may sample tasty chocolate treats at each business while accumulating points towards the grand prize drawing. Registration will begin at 10:30 am at Monongalia Arts Center (107 High St., beside Hotel Morgan), Tanner’s Alley (416 High St.), and Arts Monongahela (201 High St., beside Huntington Bank). Reg-istration will end at 2:30 pm.

April 19 | Mana Saxophone Quartet Concert Fresh 21st-century repertoire and 20th-cen-tury masterworks on vintage instruments built to the 19th-century specifications of the saxophone’s inventor, Adolphe Sax. www.fairmontchambermusic.com. St. Peter the Fisherman Church, Fairmont. Individual concert tickets are $10; $6 for Seniors and Students. 7:30 pm

April 24 | Pure Prairie League and PocoPure Prairie League’s signature hit “Aimee” is one of the most well-known and beloved country rock songs of all time. It can easily be argued that country rock pioneers Poco first created the combination of vocal harmo-nies, country instruments, and rock and roll rhythms that became known as country rock. Four decades later Rusty Young, who wrote and sang “Crazy Love” and “Heart of the Night,” still leads this incredible band. See these two legendary bands together on the Creative Arts Center stage! 7:30 pm

April 25 | Bird WalkJoin local birder Terry Bronson on an early morning bird walk. We’ll be birding by eye and ear to search in the bushes and boughs for our feathered friends. Bring binoculars if you have them. WV Botanic Gardens. 7:30 am

April 25 | 2015 CASA Superhero 5k CASA programs from Harrison, Marion, Monongalia and Preston Counties will bring together a league of Superheroes to help make a difference in the lives of abused and

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neglected children and to increase awareness of the challenges they face on a daily basis. Become part of the movement of individuals, corporations, and organizations that are proud to lead the fight against child abuse and support the CASA Superhero Run. Enjoy entertainment, refreshments and fun for the whole family. Early Registration is $25; Kids Fun Run is $10. East Marion Park (Wave Tek Park), Fairmont. 8 am

April 25 | Walk MS and Run MS Morgantown 5K Route Lengths: Walk: 1 or 3-mile options / Run-5 km. Hazel Ruby McQuain Park, Morgan-town, WV. 9 am registration, Opening Cere-mony: 10 am. Walk: Any donation; $20 for the 5K Run. For more information about WalkMS, or to register, visit http://www.runmsmorgan-town5k.com/walkers.php. For more informa-tion about RunMS, or to register, visit http://www.runmsmorgantown5k.com/runners.php. Contact: info@runmsmorgantown5k.com, 304.413.0100

April 26 | Beauty and the BeastPittsburgh Ballet Theatre brings a vivid new story ballet to Morgantown audiences with Lew Christensen’s Beauty and the Beast, an imaginative interpretation of the time- honored tale of inner beauty. WVU Creative Arts Center. 3:30 pm

April 30 | CamelotExperience Camelot’s “one brief shining moment” as Lerner and Loewe envisioned it in one of theatre’s most legendary musicals. The celebrated score includes the classics “If Ever I Would Leave You,” “The Simple Joys of Maidenhood,” and the title song, “Camelot.” WVU Creative Arts Center. 7:30 pm

May 1–3 | 14th Annual Scottish Festival & Celtic GatheringFeatures an Internationally famous Celtic athletic competition as well as a bagpipe and a highland dance competition. www.scots-westvirginia.com. Bridgeport City Park, Johnson Avenue, Bridgeport

May 2 | Cheat River FestivalMusic, art, vendors, 5K & Down River Race, kids’ activities, camping, and more! The annu-al Cheat River Festival is a celebration of new

life that comes with Spring and that can be found in the Cheat River watershed. “Cheat Fest” is Friends of Cheat’s main annual fund-raiser which helps us advance our watershed projects and supports the organization’s administrative costs. Rain or shine, Cheat Fest is always a good time! From 11:30 am till 11:30 pm, the festival grounds in Albright, West Virginia will once again transform into a haven for boaters, music lovers, and families. The Cheat River Festival is always a great demonstration of public support for increased awareness and access to the Cheat River’s outstanding natural and recreational qualities. www.cheat.org/events/cheat- river-festival/

May 2 | Irish Road BowlingIrish Road Bowling can be traced back to the 1600s. One story is that Dutch soldiers brought it when William of Orange came to Ireland in 1689. Another legend says that Irish patriots robbed English cannonballs and rolled them down a country lane by the light of a full moon. 12 noon. Coopers Rock, 304.594.9024. For the WVIRBA information, call Clifton Colebank 304.698.9065.

May 3 | ‘Straighten Up & Fly Right’ The Nat King Cole Tribute featuring Ramsey Lewis & John PizzarelliNat King Cole broke the pop barrier with his smoky, smooth vocals, stringing along a huge number of solid hits right after his first, “Straighten Up and Fly Right,” soared up the charts in 1943. As a singer, he was called “the best friend a song ever had,” but he was essentially a jazz performer at heart. Ramsey Lewis and John Pizzarelli have crafted a tribute to the titan of fifties vocal pop that includes not only his hits but also those singular tracks of sophisticated cool jazz that have influenced their own careers. The Seattle Times calls Pizzarelli “a master of Nat King Cole.” Jazz legend, pianist and compos-er, Ramsey Lewis has three Grammy Awards and seven Gold records to his credit. Lewis is also a recipient of the National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Masters Award. Join us for an incredible tribute to Nat King Cole by two artists who know him best. WVU Creative Arts Center. 7:30 pm

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