WV Living Winter 2017

WINTER 17

VINTAGE LADY | GERMANY VALLEY OVERLOOK | SWEET TREATS

W intry

YOUR

100 +

Faves for

BEST IN THE STATE

✚ Meet Our West Virginian of the Year BRANDON DENNISON

wondcrs

VOLUME 10

â—†

ISSUE 4

Winter 2017 NIKKI BOWMAN

features

62

72

Revisioning Appalachia

Best of West Virginia

Brandon Dennison is WV Living’s inaugural West Virginian of the Year.

Here's our fifth annual list of the best towns, businesses, and people in the Mountain State.

wvliving.com 5

VOLUME 10

◆

ISSUE 4

39 19

35 57 39 Local Flavor One piece of advice: Eat

a light dinner if you’re headed to Everything Cheesecake.

41 This Our favorite cookie recipes, just in time for the holiday season.

live

25 discover

51

14 Folk Meet Karen Vuranch and her alter ego,

25 Artist Tom Acosta is painting the town red,

14 Book Berkeley the Bear takes kids on a tour

26 Shop Fernweh Boutique stays on the move.

28 Book Grab your mayonnaise sandwiches—

Pearl S. Buck.

of West Virginia’s most famous sites.

15 Something New Libraries offer far more than books, music, and movies.

and blue, and yellow, and …

it’s time for a rocketship ride over the rainbow.

28 Hangouts U.S. diplomat Nick Katsakis

47 Local WTSQ brings an eclectic mix to the airwaves.

51 Creatively John Garton left veterinary medicine behind to bring wood to life.

57 Away After a day of outdoor adventure,

rest your head at the scenic Germany Valley Overlook Cabins.

59 Out Loud Attorney Sam Petsonk gains

gives us a tour of his hometown, Westover.

national attention after fighting for the rights of Charleston’s homeless community.

his thoughts on making the most of philanthropic giving.

taste

in every issue

humanity’s best tools in the hunt for ET.

backcountry cook behind the cozy White Grass Cafe.

18 Science The Green Bank telescope is one of 30 Maker An interview with Laurie Little, the 19 Living Loves Give the gift of state pride.

20 Technology WVU music professors offer virtual lessons to high school students.

21 Sound West Virginia keeps Nashville

32 Libations The Guide Shack Cafe brings coffee and adventure to Harpers Ferry.

curiosity and love of food inspire his culinary creations.

22 How We Did It Print is far from dead,

35 Vittles Bonnie Belle’s Cup-A-Cakes deliver

24 Shop For a unique gift, look no farther than The Vintage Lady in Harpers Ferry.

6 wvl • winter 2017

VINTAGE LADY | GERMANY VALLEY OVERLOOK | SWEET TREATS

33 Restaurant Cody Thrasher’s insatiable

recording artist Christian Lopez grounded. and Headline Books of Terra Alta is proving it.

8 Editor’s Letter 10 Letters to the Editor

WINTER 17

16 Lessons Paul Daugherty gives us

delicious layers of filling and icing in every bite.

37 Restaurant South Hills Market and Café serves Appalachian-inspired gourmet cuisine.

ON THE COVER Get the recipes from WV Living’s holiday cookie exchange on page 41. Photo by Carla Witt Ford

W intry

YOUR

100 +

Faves for

BEST IN THE STATE

✚ Meet Our West Virginian of the Year BRANDON DENNISON

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editor’s letter

A few of my favorite things...

I love cozying up with a cup of hot cocoa in one of these mugs. Karal Seibel, Clay Song Pottery Huntington, 304.617.5322 claysong.com, $18 ea.

Santa, I’ve been very good this year. I promise. Leather goods by Morgan Rhea are unique personalized gifts.

Morgan Rhea, Charleston, 646.751.7200 morganrhea.com Portfolio $395 Sandra Tote Bag $1,195

Toast the New Year with these handblown martini glasses by Wilkerson Glass of Moundsville. Tamarack, 1 Tamarack Park Beckley, $36 ea,

8 wvl • winter 2017

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”

W

margaret mead

hen I first met our West Virginian of the Year, Brandon Dennison, and learned of what he was doing with his Coalfield Development Corporation, I thought, “Wow. Wow. Wow.” The second time I met with Brandon Dennison, I thought, “Wow. Wow. Wow.” The third time, I looked into finding a replicator to clone Brandon so we could place him all over the state. He is a young visionary with a plan of action. As is the case with great leaders, he deflects the spotlight and instead shines it on the team he has built, the trainees, and the partnerships he has created.

Coalfield Development is a family of five social enterprises. I had never heard of “social enterprise” until I learned of Coalfield. A social enterprise is a business that combines the compassion of the nonprofit sector with the efficiency of the for-profit sector. With more than 100 new jobs, several new businesses, and more than $10 million of fresh investment created in southern West Virginia, Coalfield’s social enterprises are a game changer. The company has facilitated more than 250 professional certifications for formerly unemployed people, and 20 people who have gone through the program have been placed in full-time careers.

More than 175,000 square feet of abandoned property have been revitalized. Brandon’s story, written by Zack Harold on page 62, is uplifting, and I hope you, too, feel inspired and motivated to address the challenges our state faces.

It isn’t just Brandon’s story in this issue that highlights the best among us. Whether you are looking for a unique clothing boutique or bakery, our annual Best of West Virginia winners—the places, people, and

companies you prefer—will either affirm what you’ve known all along or introduce you to something new (page 72). Over the past few months, we collected thousands of votes to find your best options. We’ve weighed in with a few of our own Editors’ Choices as well. This is the largest statewide compilation of local destinations, cultural institutions, businesses, and people who make West Virginia “Almost Heaven.” So, I hope you’ll use it as a resource to try something new and, of course, support our local successes with your patronage.

I love ending the year with the Best of West Virginia. I get to revisit my travels to all corners of the state, remembering new discoveries and celebrating my tried-and-true favorite spots. I’ve met a lot of fabulous people along the way—people who have inspired me with their grit and determination and others who have made me laugh until I cried.

I’m thankful for all of these experiences and for all of you for going on the journey with us. I hope WV Living magazine reminds you of all that is wonderful about our state.

No matter the struggles and challenges, we are truly blessed to call West Virginia home.

May the New Year bring you blessings of love, joy, health, peace, and prosperity!

nikki bowman, Editor Follow us on

,

facebook.com/wvliving twitter.com/wvliving pinterest.com/wvliving instagram @wvliving #wvliving

,

, and

.

letters to the editor

competed in academic competitions.

I love photography. The Elk River flows behind my house, and around every curve there are must-see beautiful sights. I would love to become a photographer. Our family took a trip to Cass Scenic Railroad. When I saw all the beautiful views, I couldn’t resist the urge to capture every moment.

My favorite time of the year is fall because the beautiful colors are endless.

My goal is to show people how wonderful nature is. I would love to have the chance to get my best picture in your magazine.

Thank you. evelyn s. young, via mail

Editor’s Response: Send us your best, Evelyn, and we’ll see what we can do!

Good News

From a Future Contributor

Hello, I’m in fifth grade at Clay County Elementary School. I’m 11 years old and I enjoy writing, reading, and advanced math.

I have written many stories for school and

10 wvl • winter 2017

Big congrats to the city of Huntington!

Excellent story (“Make No Little Plans,” Fall ’17). So refreshing to see positive government and community working together for the good of their city. Would love to see this again and again in our wonderful state. bethany smith heater, via Facebook

Road Trip Inspiration

Great magazine! I’m ready to take a trip to Wheeling and Hinton (“The Good Stuff ” and “Eating on the Square,” Fall ’17) due to your recent articles. susan sauter, via mail

Wowed by Wonder Women

I really enjoy WV Living and particularly the issue focused on West Virginia’s Wonder Women (Fall ’17). Thank you for continuing to bring good news and great focus to our wonderful people. New South Media is a treasure for this state. e. gordon gee, via mail

letters to the editor

“I am absolutely honored and proud to be named one of WV Living’s 2017 Wonder Women. Words can’t describe how blessed I feel being named alongside the most unbelievable women.” malak khader

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 10, ISSUE 4

Published by

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

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wvliving.com

EDITOR

Nikki Bowman, nikki@newsouthmediainc.com

ART DIRECTOR

Carla Witt Ford, carla@newsouthmediainc.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Zack Harold, zack@newsouthmediainc.com

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Pam Kasey, pam@newsouthmediainc.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

OPERATIONS MANAGER

WEB AND SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER

CONTRIBUTORS

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Allison Daugherty, allison@newsouthmediainc.com Julian Wyant, social@newsouthmediainc.com

Lori Kersey, Amelia Ferrell Knisely, Carlee Lammers Nikki Bowman, Carla Witt Ford, Zack Harold

Demi Fuentes Ramirez, Kristen Uppercue

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new south media publications Celebrating West Virginia’s Wonder Women fall 16

FALL/WINTER 2016

When Adversity Strikes, West Virginians

STAND TALL FANTAST WAYS IC TO EXPERIE NCE

FALL

A TRIBUTE to the TOWNS DAMAGED by the FLOODS

✚ Visit HISTORIC MONROE COUNTY

✚ HIKE & BIKE HARPERS FERRY with SENATOR CAPITO

ock S olid

From Dolly Sods to The Greenbrier, your complete resource for stunning wedding venues in the Mountain State.

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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 • winter 2017

Discover WEST VIRGINIA IS A PL ACE OF BOUNDLESS DISCOVERY. HERE’S YOUR GUIDE.

COURTESY OF TOM ACOSTA

Looking Back, Looking Forward Celebrating West Virginia’s past and looking forward to our bright future.

PICTURED: A COAL MINER PAINTED BY McDOWELL COUNTY ARTIST TOM ACOSTA, PAGE 25

wvliving.com 13

discover ››

BO O K

Oh, the Places You’ll Go Portraying Pearl Karen Vuranch brings the passion and dedication of a renowned West Virginia author back to life.

karen vuranch has been portraying beloved west virginia writer Pearl S. Buck for over 20 years. In 1992, for Buck’s 100th birthday, Vuranch joined a project for the now-shuttered College of West Virginia that was based on the author’s story. Since then, she has been fascinated with Buck’s life and work.

Buck was the third character Vuranch created out of 13 she now portrays. The process took about a year and a half. She started with an autobiography and then read the author’s works to study the arc of her life. “I tried to get and see the big picture of her life with her words in my head,” Vuranch says. Once she knew how to frame the events, she could decide which stories her character would tell.

Vuranch has portrayed Buck throughout West Virginia and all over the country at colleges, libraries, schools, and other public performances. “Anywhere that people want a program that is entertaining but is also engaging intellectually,” she says.

When acting, she uses a lot of Buck’s words. Buck was a passionate humanitarian, and Vuranch brings that passion forth when she talks about the injustices, especially during World War II, that fueled the Civil Rights Movement. “Pearl has some really amazing rhetoric against racism, and I love to do this character for that reason,” she says. “Racism is such a powerful issue right now in America and I love to bring that forward with what she says.”

This is what draws Vuranch to Buck’s character: She shares the author’s belief in the power of language. “She has become an alter ego for me.” wventerprises.com written by demi

fuentes ramirez

14 wvl • winter 2017

introduce the kids in your life to West Virginia’s most scenic and historic places with The Adventures of Berkeley the Bear.

Written by Erin Sponaugle, a Martinsburg native and the state’s 2014 teacher of the year, this beautifully illustrated book follows Berkeley as he goes from a quiet life in the Monongahela National Forest to become the “state travel bear.”

The job takes him all over the state, visiting the its most beautiful and historic places—from Seneca Rocks to the New River Gorge, Blennerhassett Island to The Greenbrier. Berkeley is supported along the way by his “Sugar Maple Friends,” each of whom represents a different state symbol or county.

Ask for The Adventures of Berkeley the Bear at your favorite bookstore, or search for it on Amazon.com. written by

zack harold

COURTESY OF KAREN VURANCH

FO LK S

‹‹ discover

S O ME T HING NE W

Check This Out Libraries across the state are offering much more than books, movies, and music.

libraries have always been places of discovery, with shelves of tales real and imagined for readers to enjoy. But public libraries throughout West Virginia are finding ways to help patrons make their own adventures.

Some libraries are now offering items for nature lovers. Pocahontas County Free Libraries offer many items including butterfly nets, microscopes, cameras, fishing equipment, GPS devices, metal detectors, and egg incubators. The South Charleston Public Library has fishing rods available.

Libraries are also offering educational and craft items, especially for children.

The Summersville Public Library has a section called The Curiosity Collection, which includes items such as microscopes, board games, crafting tools, croquet sets, musical instruments, and building sets like Magformers and K’Nex. For those with green thumbs, many libraries throughout the state offer seed banks. The Summers County Public Library’s heirloom seed library allows lenders to check out vegetable and flower seeds.

Then, when it comes harvest time, patrons take some of their heirloom seeds back to the library to replenish the supply.

Unique collections allow patrons to try new hobbies without making a big commitment, says Heather Campbell-Shock, library and development services director at the West Virginia Library Commission.

“Some of these items can be expensive,” she says. “By (offering) these items, we see it as a way to help our community explore their interests.” written by kristen

uppercue bowman

photographed by nikki

We’ve compiled this short list of libraries with unique collections, but it’s far from definitive—so stop by your local library and see what’s available.

Pocahontas County Free Libraries, Marlinton Butterfly nets Microscopes Cameras Fishing equipment GPS units Metal detectors Egg incubators South Charleston Public Library, Charleston Fishing rods and reels

Raleigh County Public Libraries, Beckley Sewing machine “Kill-a-Watt” electricity usage meter Craft supplies Summersville Public Library, Summersville Microscopes Board games Crafting tools Croquet sets Musical instruments Building sets

Morgan County Public Library, Berkeley Springs Telescopes Summers County Public Library, Hinton Vegetable and flower seeds

UE OVERD wvliving.com 15

discover ››

LE S S O N S

Securing the Safety Net

With dollars for social services shrinking, coordination among the public and private giving sectors has become critical.

16 wvl • winter 2017

2017, Daugherty was awarded the National Association of Secretaries of State–WV Award for Extraordinary Effort to Advance Charitable & Philanthropic Endeavors.

if we think of the $5 billion state budget as an apple, what grantmaking organizations give to charitable causes would be about the size of its stem, at $65 million.

So while it’s often said that, if government takes a bite out of funding for social services like education and healthcare, philanthropy will flow in to fill the gap, it simply can’t, says Paul Daugherty, president and CEO of Philanthropy West Virginia. Representing 80 grantmaking organizations across the state, the group is the statewide leadership association growing the philanthropic sector and ensuring the effectiveness of its investments.

Social services are needed most during tough economic times—yet governments tend to respond by rolling back funding. At the same time, corporate and individual giving to nonprofits and grantmaking organizations shrinks, too. If the funding sectors don’t act together strategically, important needs like child services, nutrition for the needy, and elder care go unmet.

“During lean years, government needs to engage in dialog with philanthropy and nonprofits to determine how to partner,” Daugherty says. “In a state like West Virginia, we can’t just cut back—we have to look at ways to leverage each other’s investments.”

To facilitate communication and coordination, Philanthropy West Virginia is spearheading the formation of an Impact Commission that will convene participants twice a year from the nonprofit sector, philanthropy, the secretary of state’s office, and members of the Legislature on both the minority and majority sides.

Itemized giving by individuals in West Virginia peaked in 2009 at $515 million and had only rebounded to $496 million by 2014, the most recent data available. “We have to ensure that the great American value of charitable giving from citizens and companies is accessible to all and permanently ensures that our citizens and businesses can invest in local communities,” Daugherty says. “West Virginia immensely needs it now.”

CARLA WITT FORD

Philanthropy West Virginia President and CEO Paul Daugherty and Office Assistant Hilaria Swisher, left, and Laura Lee Haddad of the West Virginia Nonprofit Association. In November

‹‹ discover

Q+A

with Daugherty

What would strengthen philanthropy’s contribution to the social service safety net in West Virginia?

Better data and awareness of how all all four sectors—government, business, philanthropy, and nonprofits—operate. We release our State of Philanthropy report annually to show what itemized charitable giving by individuals looks like each year.

We’re trying to get more data around annual grantmaking.

Better communication about needs and opportunities could

help maximize the value of investments. A few of our member organizations are working on the opioid crisis, for example. They don’t have the resources to build treatment facilities. But can they contribute together to a grant writer to put a proposal together? Or can they put matching dollars down to leverage a state or federal grant? If you combine local giving with private giving with state and federal grants, a wellorchestrated project can take place.

Any community, region, or state is strongest when all four sectors are investing in a coordinated way. Each sector leveraging the others results in greater impact and staying power. In a prime example of effective coordination, all of the sectors came to the table during the tragedies of the 2016 floods to look together at ways to rebuild neighborhoods.

Whether we’re addressing economic revitalization, health issues, or education, a consistent focus around building

partnerships across all four sectors, specifically including the general public in philanthropy, results in better coordination and permanency. The Impact Commission we’re forming now will help. interviewed by pam

kasey wvliving.com 17

discover ›› S C IE NC E

Star Search if there’s intelligent life somewhere else in the universe, it lives on planets orbiting other stars. Planets in other systems have been hard for us to find until recently— we didn’t find our first until 1992. Those “exoplanets” are hard to see, because the stars they orbit outshine them. But if a planet’s path carries it between its star and Earth, we now have instruments sensitive enough to notice the less-than-1-percent dip in brightness caused by such a mini-eclipse.

The best place to take measurements that precise is from space, outside the Earth’s thick, wavy atmosphere. So in 2009, NASA launched the Kepler space observatory to monitor the brightness of 150,000 stars in a small, fixed area of the sky—an area about the size of your open hand at arm’s length. Through mid-2013, Kepler transmitted data every day back to Earth, where computers and astronomy enthusiasts reviewed it for patterns and surprises.

Among the many stars with regular, minuscule dips in brightness, citizen scientists noticed something perplexing: one star with irregular dips, sometimes up to a dramatic 20 percent. A Sun-sized star less than 1,500 light-years away, it was designated KIC 8462852, but was soon dubbed “Tabby’s Star” for Tabetha Boyajian, the Yale postdoc who came to publicize it.

Meanwhile, Jason Wright, a Pennsylvania State University astrophysicist, had been conducting an unusual Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI) hunt—not for the communication signals SETI usually seeks out, but for other signs of advanced alien technology, something along the lines of swarms of energy-collecting satellites surrounding stars.

Wright was drafting a paper in the fall of 2014 conceding that the Kepler observatory had found no such thing when Boyajian showed up at Penn State to give a talk. She showed 18 wvl • winter 2017

him the KIC 8462852 data. “This stumps me,” he recalls saying.

None of the hypotheses—ideas like a pack of comets passing by through interstellar space—explained all of the observations convincingly. So Wright put his idea out there: Maybe Tabby’s Star was actually surrounded by a swarm of alien satellites. Since no one had a more plausible hypothesis, Wright and Boyajian decided to listen for SETI-type communication signals coming from the star.

Astronomers everywhere got interested.

“Getting telescope time in astronomy is often difficult,” Wright says. “But people heard that something weird was happening, and there were people with their precious 8 or 10 hours of darkness emailing us saying, ‘I can spare 15 minutes,’ or ‘45 minutes’ to give us data. In terms of the number of telescopes all following a single event, it was one of the biggest events going on.”

And in late 2016, the Breakthrough Listen SETI project devoted three 8-hour periods of prized observation time at the best SETI telescope there is: West Virginia’s Green Bank radio telescope.

“Green Bank is at just the right frequency for radio SETI, which happens at low gigahertz—higher than the radio dial but low for astronomy,” Wright says. “Not only is

it a gigantic, lower-frequency telescope, but you can point it anywhere in the Northern Hemisphere. It’s the only such gigantic telescope we could point at Tabby’s Star.”

It will come as no surprise that Green Bank did not discover aliens harvesting energy from Tabby’s Star. Based on new data, NASA posted a media release in October 2017 advancing the hypothesis of an uneven dust cloud moving around the star as the cause of at least some of the observations. “This flies in the face of the ‘alien megastructure’ idea and the other more exotic speculations,” NASA’s post reads.

Still, those who are eager for company in this vast universe can take heart. Kepler found more than 2,300 exoplanets in just its little section of space, 30 of which are about Earth-sized and orbit in their stars’ habitable zones—meaning, they could harbor something along the lines of life as we know it. Estimates are that our Milky Way galaxy may host more than 10 billion Earth-sized, rocky planets orbiting the habitable zones of Sun-like stars. The search continues and, when aliens are found, Green Bank will likely play a key role. written by pam

kasey

JESSE THORNTON PHOTOGRAPHY; REFLECTIONINAPOOL.COM

When the best hypothesis is aliens, the best place to test it is the Green Bank radio telescope.

LI V ING LOV E S

RANDALL SANGER 2018 CALENDAR our-wv.com/photography/photographers/randall-sanger-photography $15

State of Giving

Give the gift of home with these “stately” locally made products.

“WV HOME” STATE ORNAMENT Denise Heckel, artist. Studio D Pottery & Jewelry, Elkins, 304.642.4576 studiopottery.com, $10

THE WEST VIRGINIA STATE CAPITOL BUILDING COFFEE TABLE BOOK thorneylieberman.com $39.95

COCO & JUNE WOOD SLICE ORNAMENT The Elegant Alley Cat Morgantown 304.292.4433 elegantalleycat.com $6 ea.

HEART OF WV LIGHTED BALL Appalachian Glass, Weston, 304.269.1030 appglass.com $25

HOME STATE APPAREL ONESIE The Elegant Alley Cat Morgantown, 304.292.4433 elegantalleycat.com $16.95

HOME PILLOW Robin & David Oldaker Heart’s Desire Crafts Buckhannon, 304.472.3761 $10 wvliving.com 19

T EC HNO LO GY

Master Class WVU offers online music lessons to students statewide.

aya hobeika was nervous at first. Her posture was tense as she gripped her violin and glided her bow across the strings. Her focus had gravitated toward one thing: the person on the other side of her computer screen.

Hobeika is one of dozens of West Virginia students who have participated in virtual music lessons provided free of charge by the faculty in the strings department of West Virginia University’s School of Music. The lessons instantly connect high school students with WVU experts via video-conferencing programs like Skype and FaceTime.

Violin professor Mikylah McTeer, who taught Aya’s virtual lesson, brought the idea to WVU after learning about a similar program at the University of Texas. “We’re not as big of a state as Texas, but we do have far-flown panhandles, and to get from 20 wvl • winter 2017

Charleston to Morgantown or Wheeling to Morgantown is an investment,” McTeer says.

“We discovered we can have really fruitful musical interactions through teaching with technology.”

The lessons allow West Virginia high school students who play the violin, viola, cello, or bass to prepare for upcoming auditions with “expert insight,” McTeer says. Instructors spend 15 minutes with students, focusing on specific pieces of music for coveted auditions for groups like the All State Orchestra audition.

WVU piloted its virtual lessons last year at John Marshall High School in Glen Dale and Spring Mills High School in Martinsburg.

The lessons were a hit, so instructors have since started offering the lessons to schools statewide.

“We have a real duty and passion as faculty of a land grant institution to be there for our

students in the state. We really believe in that and are really committed to that,” McTeer says. She and her colleagues at WVU have been working to cultivate relationships with music instructors across the state to offer the lessons to as many students as possible.

Hobeika, a junior at George Washington High School in Charleston, took advantage of the lessons at the recommendation of her orchestra teacher to help her prepare for a national symphony audition last spring. At first, she wasn’t sure what to expect. The private lessons she had previously taken throughout her seven years of playing had all been in person.

But not only was Hobeika accepted into the symphony, the 15-minute lesson with McTeer helped her grow as a player and put her at ease. “To be able to work with someone who is extremely well-known, a master of her craft, you still get the whole experience from it,” she says. “And even though it’s not an in-person thing where the sounds may be different, or she can’t actually move your posture for you, I think it makes you independent—to take advice from someone on a screen and be able to do it on your own.”

West Virginia high school students interested in taking virtual lessons with WVU faculty are encouraged to talk with their schools’ music teachers, who can contact the university’s School of Music to schedule. written by carlee

lammers

COURTESY OF WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY

discover ››

S O U ND

Music City Meets Martinsburg

COURTESY OF CHRISTIAN LOPEZ

Christian Lopez is doing things his way in Nashville. last summer, the website Rolling Stone Country included Martinsburg native Christian Lopez on its list of “10 New Country Artists You Need to Know.” And yet Lopez’s sophomore album Red Arrow, released in September, doesn’t really feel like a country record.

Some might classify it as “Americana”—that popular catchall genre for roots-based music.

Some of Red Arrow’s songs fit that category.

But songs like “Don’t Wanna Say Goodnight” and “Someday” would be at home on pop radio, if pop music still used electric guitars.

It’s no wonder Lopez’s music is so hard to pin down. He started out in musical theater, appearing in local productions of Oliver, The Sound of Music, Guys and Dolls, and West Side Story. “That’s when I realized I could sing a song,” he says.

He wasn’t much interested in being a singer, however, so he took lessons on mandolin, banjo, and harmonica. He dove into guitar after seeing a picker at an Old West reenactment show in South Dakota.

He played only hard rock and metal for a while then formed a classic rock cover band when he was about 12. They couldn’t find a singer, so Lopez became

the frontman. “We were killing the local bar scene,” he says. “I was making good money— probably better than I am now.”

In high school, he got into classic country artists like Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, and Kris Kristofferson, then Americana bands like the Avett Brothers. His music shifted from rock ’n’ roll to roots-based music, and Lopez landed a Nashville record deal just months after receiving his diploma.

He made his debut album, Onward, with award-winning producer Dave Cobb. Lopez says he’s proud of that record but, since he let Cobb make most of the decisions, it doesn’t feel as personal as he’d like. “I didn’t know how to take a leadership role. The biggest thing I took away was, I need to know what I want.”

Now, Lopez is in the driver’s seat. And his eclectic musical roots are beginning to show through. “My goal is to never confine myself,” he says. “The music keeps changing. I think the next record is going to be totally different.

I think I’m moving back to my hard rock, poprock roots.”

For Lopez, staying fresh means escaping Nashville as often as he can. He gets back to Martinsburg whenever possible, even if that means driving through the night at the end of a tour.

“At home, it’s different. You can look at things from the outside,” he says. “It reconnects me to why I even started.” written by zack

harold wvliving.com 21

discover ››

Bookmark it

The Secret to Success After working in the industry for 32 years, Teets says their success is based on their experience. Headline Books publishes around 20 to 25 books per year and gets about 15 submissions a week. The publishers look for books that appeal to a broad national market with subjects that are trending nationally, as well as manuscripts that would make strong showings in niche markets. Many books they have selected have gone on to both commercial and critical success, picking up numerous awards.

Publishing the Best

Local, award-winning publishing house shares its secret to success. after the west virginia flood of 1985, Cathy Teets and her husband moved from newspaper publishing to book publishing, and in 1988 they started Headline Books in Terra Alta.

The first book they published was A. James Manchin: A Biography of Controversy.

Because it was published amid scandal over Manchin’s investments as state treasurer— which led to his impeachment—the book was a success and gave their new company a boost. The company published regional nonfiction books exclusively until 2006, when it added fiction and children’s books to its catalog.

Headline Books has now published award-winning books by authors from all over the country. The company was named the 2017 Independent Publisher of the Year by the Next Generation Indie Book Awards, and its titles have won more than 400 national awards. Teets travels widely, meeting authors and publishers, and enjoys every bit of it.

“The longer I have done this, the more varied the authors have become, and it’s really a lot of fun and definitely interesting,” she says. written by demi

fuentes ramirez

22 wvl • winter 2017

Visibility is Key Headline Books is constantly attending events in order to get its authors and its books out to a larger market. “With an independent publisher, the more visible an author is, the more exposure we get,” Teets says. The company takes authors along to local festivals and shows for book signings, readings, and interviews. But traveling around the country is what really broadens the company’s contacts. That gives it the opportunity to promote its books and meet potential authors.

What Keeps Them Going Apart from broadening their contacts, one of Headline Books’ priorities is young readers.

With many schools eliminating of classes such as art and music, the company strives to ensure every one of its children’s books includes educational content that will help fill in these curriculum gaps.

COURTESY OF HEADLINE BOOKS

HOW WE DID I T

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discover ›› SHOP

Moving Forward The Vintage Lady brings artistic items to historic Harpers Ferry.

CINDI DUNN

when her husband retired as a professor at Marietta College, Cindi Dunn decided that if she wanted to do something besides working as superintendent of a school system in Ohio, now was the time.

The couple moved to Harpers Ferry and she began working at a local jewelry store.

When the store closed, she bought the place and reopened it in February 2004 as “The Vintage Lady,” named for her vintage jewelry side business that had already gained a strong following at local craft shows.

The store originally had barely any items made in the United States. Dunn knew she wanted that to change. She and her husband set out to find not only American artists but especially artists from West Virginia. “We were working on making the shop our own and slowly evolving,” she says.

Then, on July 23, 2015, a large fire tore through Harpers Ferry’s historic section, destroying two residences and eight businesses, including The Vintage Lady. Dunn refused to let it discourage her. Just hours after the fire, she called her insurance company and the owner of an empty store farther down the street that was untouched by the disaster.

Starting completely from scratch, The Vintage Lady reopened in a new space just six ourselves and take the shop in the direction we weeks later. “The fire allowed us to reinvent wanted it to be, which was supporting as many West Virginian and American artists as we could,” Dunn says.

Now, the store sells jewelry that Dunn and her employee Crystal Grimsley make by hand, as well as West Virginia beer, wine, and hard cider. There’s West Virginia-made glass from Blenko Glass Company and Appalachian Glass. Dunn sells prints of her photography, as well as ornaments and mugs featuring the images. There are tea towels printed with humorous inscriptions, made by two West Virginia natives now living in Georgia, and apple bakers created by a local potter. Shoppers can also find a selection of West Virginia– produced honey, Bloody Mary mix, spaghetti sauce, and salt.

24 wvl • winter 2017

Customers’ favorite items, however, are the hand-carved coal sculptures. “When you go to the beach, you want to take home seashells, and when you come to West Virginia, you want to take home some coal,” Dunn says.

Dunn prides herself in continually adding more items and artists to the Vintage Lady. “We are constantly trying to make the shop better by bringing in new things,” she says. “We work really hard to keep things unique and moving forward with items you don’t see anywhere else.”

180 High Street, 304.535.1313, thevintagelady.net written by kristen

uppercue witt ford

photographed by carla

ARTIST

Paint the Town

COURTESY OF TOM ACOSTA

Welch artist Tom Acosta draws inspiration from home. tom acosta doesn’t really know what drove him to become a painter.

He had always been interested in art and, by the age of 14, he started teaching himself to paint. He was inspired by his childhood home in Welch and local artists Wood Nichols and Pete Ballard.

After painting for almost 20 years, Acosta went through some difficult times in 1990 when his parents died. He thought about giving up on painting altogether, but his sons motivated him to keep going and use art to tell the story of his life. “I felt like if I was going to continue doing it, I’d have to have a reason to do it. So I mainly paint my life, in a sense,” he says.

Today, his works are found in schools, corporate collections, private homes, and galleries all over the mid-Atlantic, including the Butler Institute of American Art in Youngstown, Ohio.

He’s represented by the prestigious Barbara Moore Gallery in Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania.

Around McDowell County, Acosta is probably best known for his murals depicting ordinary people and contemporary realities. One of his favorite works so far is “Heritage,” an art nouveauesque coal mining mural that’s displayed in Mount View High School in Welch.

Although he is proud of his murals, Acosta says he’s finished with that chapter of his career.

Now, he focuses more on oil and watercolor paintings, since these media force him to limit his palette. “It seems the longer and the more you paint, the more you realize you don’t know, and you want to keep on pursuing it to get better,” he says.

In October 2017, he unveiled a special chapter of his “Dust of the Earth” series titled “Simple Virtues from McDowell County Life” featuring 30 paintings based on the coalfields where Acosta grew up. @americanrealismbytomacosta on Facebook and Instagram written by demi

fuentes ramirez wvliving.com 25

discover ››

SHOP

Traveling in Style

chelsey greaser, moriah peddicord, and her sister Miranda Peddicord are three friends from Kingwood who always dreamt of opening their own boutique but never had the time. In fall 2016, Moriah Peddicord was doing some research online and came across the idea of a mobile boutique. “We enjoy being outside and going to different events and music festivals,” she says. “Being able to take our shop there? It was like ‘Wow! This is really something that we can do.’ And it kind of sparked from there.”

In January 2017, the girls purchased an old FedEx truck—soon to be called Franny.

It was the first step toward starting their Fernweh Boutique. “Fernweh” is German for wanderlust and “the Fernweh gals,” as they call themselves, wanted a meaningful name that both captured their dreams and marked the beginning of their journey.

They built their shop in the back of the truck with help from friends and family. By April 2017, Franny had already received her finishing touches. The next month, Fernweh Boutique made its debut at the Cheat River Festival in Preston County.

26 wvl • winter 2017

The boutique has an eclectic inventory.

They sell women’s clothing that comes from their closets as well as donations from friends and family. But mostly, they find their wares in thrift stores—accessories and handmade jewelry, tapestries, blankets, and even a small section of men’s clothing. They have also paired up with local artists and companies to add to their shop. “It’s exciting to us,” Greaser says.

“We’ve had a range of people older and younger that have come through and mostly everyone finds something.”

The Fernweh Boutique has been to the Buckwheat Festival, Bridge Day,

MountainFest, and more.

The gals also do “pop ups” at local events and private parties. “Everyone that comes has a really positive response to us,” Miranda says. “They say it’s a great idea and they like the concept.”

Only a few months after its debut, Fernweh was named West Virginia Mobile Boutique of the Year by the website Boutique Hub. “Fernweh Boutique - WV” on Facebook @fernwehboutique_wv on Instagram written by demi

fuentes ramirez

COURTESY OF THE FERNWEH BOUTIQUE

Three best friends from Kingwood start their own mobile boutique.

discover ››

JUSTICE FOR ALL

1

2

JUSTICE FOR ALL

THE ESSENTIAL POCKET GUIDE TO UNDERSTANDING WEST VIRGINIA GOVERNOR

JAMES C. JUSTICE II

A Bloomin’ Good Book Nick Katsakis 11/21/17 3:59 PM

H ANGO U T S

governor jim justice prides himself in speaking the language of the common man.

During his 2017 State of the State speech, he called it “plain talk.” “And that’s what I think West Virginians want to hear,” he said.

Justice definitely has a penchant for using elaborate metaphors and analogies to make his points. He has his own political vocabulary, peppering speeches with rocket ship rides and rainbows, mayonnaise sandwiches, nothingburgers, horsewhatever, and bull-youknow-what.

Obviously, that “plain talk” isn’t always so plain. So the editors at New South Media decided to create a reference book to help legislators, journalists, and everyday citizens.

Justice for All: The Essential Pocket Guide to Understanding West Virginia Governor James C. Justice II, contains more than two dozen of Justice’s folksiest quotes—with handy definitions and translations so you can understand what he’s saying.

Get your copy at wvlivingcollection.com. written by zack

harold

28 wvl • winter 2017

born in morgantown and raised in Westover, Nick Katsakis is a foreign service officer with the U.S. Department of State. For 15 years, he’s served as a diplomat representing the American people and our interests overseas. The job has taken him all over the world—he’s worked in U.S. embassies in Afghanistan, Iraq, Poland, Russia, and Tajikistan—but WV Living wanted to know Katsakis’ favorite spots in his hometown.

(The views expressed in this article are not necessarily those of the U.S. government.)

➀ WESTOVER PARK Westover Park was a great place to spend much of my youth, playing Little League baseball and attending concerts. I played tenor saxophone in the Westover Junior High and Morgantown High School marching bands,

3

so for me there was no better way to end my summers than marching in the Monongalia County Fair Parade, then going straight to Westover Park to enjoy the fair and corn on the cob. My mother served on the Westover City Council, and after she died the city placed benches in Westover Park in her honor.

➁ COLASANTE’S RISTORANTE AND PUB

Once known as Westover Pizza, no trip to the city is complete without dining at Colasante’s. It serves some of the best Italian food in the region, including the most delicious mozzarella sticks found anywhere. Colasante’s recently reopened after suffering a major fire, a testament to the hard work and determination one finds in the city of Westover.

➂ COOPERS ROCK STATE FOREST Coopers Rock State Forest contains some of the finest natural beauty that the Mountain State has to offer. Some places in the park are also historically significant, such as the Henry Clay Furnace, the first steam-powered blast furnace in western Virginia. I always enjoyed hiking to the large hemlock grove at the end of the Virgin Hemlock Trail.

PAM KASEY, NIIKI BOWMAN, CARLA WITT FORD

BOOK

Taste NO MEAL IS COMPLE TE WITHOUT A GOOD STORY

CARLA WITT FORD

Comfort and Joy Winter isn’t so bad when you’ve got homemade cookies, cozy restaurants, and decadent desserts to get you through.

PICTURED: SEE OUR FAVORITE COOKIE RECIPES, PAGE 41.

wvliving.com 29

taste ›› maker

30 wvl • winter 2017

maker ‹‹ taste

Frozen Skiers, Fresh Food Meet Laurie Little, the backcountry cook behind the cozy White Grass Cafe. interviewed by zack harold

when white grass ski touring center opened in 1981, it was all about the powder. But it wasn’t long before the White Grass Cafe started attracting just as much attention as the action on the trails. You won’t find lukewarm chicken fingers or crayon-colored nacho cheese here. The staff makes almost everything inhouse, with a menu of fresh fare for vegetarians and meat eaters alike.

Behind it all is Laurie Little, wife of White Grass co-founder Chip Chase. She’s the one who keeps the kitchen running smoothly and hungry diners satisfied. The cafe is now so renowned that the line for dinner sometimes stretches out the door—but patrons are more than willing to wait in the cold for a seat at Little’s table.

WV Living caught up with Little before White Grass opened for the season to learn more about the cafe and its cuisine. 643 Weiss Knob Ski Road, Davis, 304.866.4114, whitegrass.com “White Grass XC Ski Area” on Facebook

“

I started cooking when I was about 14 but I never had any formal training. Then I got interested in the vegetarian thing and learned from my friend Mary Beth Gwyer. It was her idea to have lunches and things.

CHIP CHASE

That was in the early ’80s. And, with crosscountry skiing, people weren’t used to having a restaurant where they skied. They would walk in with their bagged lunch. Back then everybody was self-sufficient. Then it kind of blossomed.

We’ll do a couple hundred lunches in a day. We grill panini sandwiches. Sometimes we have five or six different soups on the chalkboard. That’s really popular. We always make chili—that’s our signature dish, vegetarian chili. It has bulgur wheat in it, that’s the beef substitute. A lot of people don’t notice. On a busy weekend, we’ll serve 30 gallons.

We make chocolate chip cookies and oatmeal raisin. That’s one of the things

people like—walking through the door and smelling the cookies in the ovens. One of our new cookies is a chai sugar cookie. Everybody just loves it.

We do dinners on the weekends. For dinners, we like to do a really eclectic menu. We do an Asian duck that’s really good. We do a Ceylonese chicken: It’s got coconut milk, ginger, cilantro, curry, and cinnamon. We do a shrimp and crab etouffee, a Cajun thing over rice, that’s really good.

I let the chefs create the menus. Our chefs, if they’re good at a certain thing, we’ll say ‘How about you do that today?’ We like to make most of the stuff ourselves. I think people come to us because of that. It’s that Whole Foods theory—it’s better if it doesn’t have a whole big list of ingredients. It’s basic food that’s fresh.”

LOOK TWICE wvliving.com 31

taste ›› libations

Fuel Up The Guide Shack Cafe brings coffee and adventure to Harpers Ferry. written by kristen

C

uppercue

photographed by nikki

bowman

offee was the drink that fueled Chris Price on his adventures in the Harpers Ferry area. But because of a lack of coffee shops in the historic town, Price was forced to hike to the nearest gas station to get more of that “magic bean,” as he refers to the caffeinated drink. Seeing a need, Price opened his own cafe in Bolivar in spring 2016.

Price is a veteran who has struggled with post-traumatic stress disorder and substance abuse. While overcoming these obstacles, Price found his love of adventuring outdoors through activities like rock climbing, kayaking, and hiking. Those experiences inspired him to help other veterans.

Everything sold in his café store is locally- or veteran-sourced, including jarred and baked goods. He also uses the business to encourage other veterans to seek out what he calls “adventure therapy.” “We know nature is healing, and having a purpose in life is healing, so that’s the drive—to encourage people to open their hearts, shut their mouths, and help their neighbor,” Price says.

The Guide Shack hosts fundraising events for the community and offers veteran-guided tours through the Harpers Ferry area. There’s even a bouldering rock in the coffee shop for visitors to enjoy while rendezvousing over West Virginia–roasted coffee. 102 Washington Street, Bolivar, 304.995.6022, guideshackcafe.com, @guideshackcafe on Facebook

32 wvl • winter 2017

Cody’s ‹‹ taste

A Chaotic Symphony Cody Thrasher’s insatiable curiosity and love of food inspire his culinary creations. written by zack

harold

photographed by nikki

bowman

taste ›› Cody’s

C

ody Thrasher didn’t go to culinary school. He created his own.

Early in his career, he bought the Culinary Institute of America cookbook at Barnes & Noble and read it cover to cover. Later, he and his cook friends would get together each Sunday evening, since most kitchen crews don’t have to work on Mondays. They would head to the local Asian market, buy some ingredients they didn’t quite know what to do with, and then retreat to someone’s house to spend the night cooking.

Thrasher also went on field trips. When he was 21, he set off on a nine-month road trip that covered all 48 continental states. He observed how ingredients, cooking techniques, and flavors changed from region to region, recording his observations in his journals.

Then he took his studies abroad, backpacking through Thailand and working under different chefs in exchange for places to sleep.

All the while, he worked his way through Morgantown’s dining scene, working the stoves at Mountain State Brewing Company, Oliverio’s Ristorante, and various bars around town. All that experience eventually led to a master’s thesis, of sorts.

In 2014, he scraped together some cash and bought a used food truck to launch Hash Browns and New Grounds. Thrasher used his well-traveled palate to create dishes like Jalapeno Gnocchi Mac & Cheese and Blackened Vietnamese Catfish Tacos.

The food, modestly priced and made with local ingredients, was a big hit with Morgantown’s dining public. “It sold itself,” he says. Thrasher’s truck proved so popular, Hash Browns and New Grounds landed a spot in Off the Eaten Path: On the Road Again, a cookbook published by Southern Living magazine.

In 2016, he parlayed this success into a brick-and-mortar establishment in Bridgeport: Cody’s Restaurant. The menu is slightly less adventurous compared with the food truck’s occasionally off-the-wall offerings, but features the same attention to fresh ingredients and unique flavors.

Thrasher revamps the menu four times a year to highlight the season’s best ingredients.

He hand selects each of the restaurant’s ribeyes to ensure they’ve got the perfect marbleization. The steaks are then seared in cast iron pans, topped with a gorgonzola cream sauce, and served with shoestring frites.

The restaurant’s curries and pork belly dishes are also popular— try the Bunjal Curry, grilled beef served on a goat cheese and coconut milk curry, or the Crispy Bourbon Pig, pork belly served with a bourbon and berry barbecue sauce.

Although owning and managing the restaurant doesn’t leave as much time for culinary experimentation as Thrasher might have if he cooked in someone else’s kitchen, he enjoys the added challenge of running the business side of things. Looking over the books, he can see all the money coming in and all the money going out. He can tell which dishes are really popular with guests and which ones are flopping. “It’s kind of like fantasy football,” he says.

And it’s all fueled by what got him interested in restaurants to begin with—his deep love of food. “I still enjoy cooking 10 hours a day,” he says. “Every single shift is a battle. I compare it to a chaotic symphony. If you give your all every day, it pays off.” 20 Shaner Drive, Suite 104, Bridgeport, 304.842.4200, codysrestaurant.com

34 wvl • winter 2017

vittles ‹‹ taste

A Different Kind of Cupcake Bonnie Belle’s bakeries in Nutter Fort and Bridgeport are selling the perfect gift for friends and family.

CARLA WITT FORD

F

written by demi

fuentes ramirez

or 70 years, Harrison County bakery Bonnie Belle’s has earned a dedicated following for its delectable cakes, cupcakes, petit fours, and cookies. But there’s one relatively new addition to the menu that is really getting customers’ attentions—the Cup-A-Cake, a gourmet cupcake in a Mason jar with delicious layers of filling and icing in every bite.

“We wanted to have something that you could transport easily, that you could mail, and that is a ‘gifty’ kind of thing,” say Linda Fowler, owner of Bonnie Belle’s. It was only natural to co-opt the bakery’s popular cupcake recipes for this new product line. “We sell thousands of cupcakes, so it seemed like a good idea,” she laughs.

Bonnie Belle’s now serves more than a dozen flavors of Cup-A-Cakes, like Snickers, Oreos, Raspberry, Strawberry Cream Cheese, Lemon, Peanut Butter, Triple Chocolate, Red Velvet, and more. There’s even a Mountaineer Cup-A-Cake in white, blue, and yellow.

Besides being a delicious treat, Cup-A-Cakes are also handy. Because they come in a jar, you can eat some now, then put the lid on and save the rest for later. Good luck with that, by the way.

Cup-A-Cakes are good for kids, too, since they can eat them on the go without the mess of a regular cupcake. The treats are also the perfect, affordable gift for teachers, hairstylists, friends, relatives, and anyone else you want to sweeten up.

Fowler says businesses are now buying Cup-A-Cakes for their clients, and customers have mailed the jars to faraway relatives. “It’s a neat little gift that’s not really expensive and the people just love,” she says. 1520 Buckhannon Pike, Nutter Fort, 304.622.7471; 20 Shaner Drive, White Oaks, Bridgeport, 304.848.1100; bonniebellespastries.com wvliving.com 35

36 wvl • winter 2017

South Hills Market and Café ‹‹ taste

S

hortly after opening South Hills Market and Café in 2007, chef and co-owner Richard Arbaugh realized he needed to make a change. A fairly drastic change.

The market’s business plan originally centered around breakfast, lunch, catering, and a to-go meal option. But almost from the beginning, breakfast business was slow. The restaurant would be busy a few mornings each week, but that wasn’t nearly enough to keep things going.

Customers seemed to enjoy the à la carte takeout meals, but Arbaugh suspected that business might not last long. A local Kroger store started its own hot-and-ready meal option soon after the market opened. The food wasn’t as good as what Arbaugh was offering, but it was far more convenient.

He needed to make a pivot. Lucky for him, if there’s one thing a life in restaurant kitchens prepares you for, it’s an unexpected challenge.

First Course

Cooking in the Melting Pot South Hills Market and Café marks 10 years of Appalachian-inspired gourmet cuisine. written by zack

harold

photographed by nikki

bowman

Arbaugh grew up in Chatham, Virginia. His entrée to the world of fine dining was a summer job working at a bed and breakfast. The place was run by a chef, who served far more than bacon, eggs, and french toast at his table. “It was ‘farm to fork’ before ‘farm to fork’ was on the map,” Arbaugh says.

Although he started out washing dishes, Arbaugh was soon learning the basics of knife technique. He began helping the chef prep ingredients. Sometimes he’d go to the garden with a bowl and shears to get lettuce. Other times, he helped butcher rabbits and hogs.

By the time he graduated high school, Arbaugh decided he wanted to go into the culinary arts.

But before committing to culinary school, he took a job as a cook’s helper at The Greenbrier. “That was the pinnacle of where great chefs were. It was a good opportunity to see if you want to pursue that kind of career.”

After just one season at the resort, Arbaugh enrolled at the New England Culinary Institute in Vermont. He later returned to intern at The Greenbrier under Chef Robert Wong. Then, after he finished his schooling, he returned to Charleston to help Wong open the Bridge Road Bistro, where he met his soon-to-be wife, Anne.

After a few years, the couple moved to Virginia to work at The Homestead Restaurant in Catawba, Virginia, as the main dining room chef. But they wanted to live closer to Anne’s family and returned to Charleston in 2007 to open the market. wvliving.com 37

taste ›› South Hills Market and Café Whether it’s scallops or steaks, South Hills Market

and Café delivers gourmet flavors with Appalachian flair.

The House Special

Arbaugh opened his new restaurant on Charleston’s Bridge Road, just up the street from Wong’s restaurant. While some might have been upset that a former apprentice was now their competition, that wasn’t Wong’s style. The chef, who died suddenly following a tennis match in 2012, offered Arbaugh encouragement in those early days—directing catering business toward the market, popping over for a cup of coffee to see how things were going, and offering the occasional advice. “Chef taught me, don’t be afraid to push yourself,” Arbaugh says.

Arbaugh took this advice to heart when it came time to remake his business plan. Just six months after South Hills Market and Café opened, he tore out the market section of the restaurant and added more tables. They stopped serving breakfast and shifted the restaurant’s focus toward dinner. “We saw it as an opportunity to do a different kind of cuisine,” Arbaugh says.

A full decade before Appalachian cuisine started catching on in the national food scene, Arbaugh set about creating a menu of dishes that draw inspiration from the region. It gave the restaurant a unique identity and quickly earned it a dedicated following.

South Hills Market and Café remains one of the state’s top spots for Appalachian cuisine, with a menu that showcases the flexibility of the term.

Sometimes Arbaugh takes traditional Appalachian ingredients and prepares them according to traditional French techniques, like the rock shrimp risotto with preserved morel 38 wvl • winter 2017

mushrooms. Other times, the market takes a mainstream ingredient or dish and infuses it with Appalachian influence. The Fried Green Tomatoes, for instance, are served with a creole hollandaise sauce and house-pickled watermelon. The watermelon is inspired by Arbaugh’s grandmother, who always put salt on her melon to make it sweeter. “Appalachia’s that melting pot. It’s adapting to whatever the world threw at you,” he says.

Arbaugh’s commitment to Appalachian roots also extends to his choice of cookware.

“People don’t realize how awesome cast iron is,” he says. Arbaugh and his kitchen crew make good use of their well-seasoned frying pans, churning out Cast Iron Tacos—available with beef, chicken, or grouper—and a selection of Cast Iron Pizzas.

Other customer favorites include the Short Rib Sliders—with smoked cheddar, shallot jam, and beef sourced from the locally owned Buzz Food Service—and the house-cured Braised Pork Belly, which comes on three onion–potato cakes, topped with a mustard sauce and a fresh trout roe.

But even more than the food, Arbaugh says he’s proud the market has earned a reputation for good service and has forged strong bonds with its customers—so strong, in fact, that the restaurant sometimes hosts the same diners two or three times a week.

“The mentality needs to be, ‘It’s always a pleasure to see you, and it’s always a pleasure to serve you,’” he says.

That’s one thing Arbaugh doesn’t plan to change.

local f lavor ‹‹ taste

Say Cheese (cake) Everything Cheesecake in Martinsburg will satisfy your sweet tooth.

B

written and photographed by nikki

bowman

usinesses that dish out baked goods are, well … sweet. And Everything Cheesecake in Martinsburg is about as sweet as they come. In 2014, Gerrardstown native Teresa Gibbons left her job as a Martinsburg City Police officer and, with her husband, Erin, opened a gourmet cheesecake bakery.

Since then, Everything Cheesecake has become the area’s go-to sweet spot. On any given day, this bakery offers six to eight different flavors, from a roster of 70 cheesecakes including best sellers Reese’s Peanut Butter, Classic New York–style, and Salted Caramel Toffee Crunch. The extremely popular Pecan Pie Cheesecake has a whole pecan pie packed inside it. Weighing in at seven pounds, it is topped with salted caramel sauce and pecans.

All the cheesecakes are made from scratch and sold by the slice. Whole cheesecakes can be ordered with three days’ advance notice. Prices range from $4.50 to $6.50 a slice to $35 to $65 for a whole cheesecake. You can get a slice or two to go, or sit down with a cup of Black Dog Coffee. And in January 2018, Gibbons is also adding a full-service tearoom, the only one in the area.

Gibbons has added some pastries and pepperoni rolls to the menu, but she wasn’t interested in opening a run-of-the-mill bakery. “I love doing things that are unique,” she says. 324 West Stephen Street, Martinsburg, 304.350.1567, @everythingcheesecake on Facebook wvliving.com 39

EAT + DRINK + BE LO CA L |

40 wvl • winter 2017

Save Some for Santa

this ‹‹ taste

Subhead goes here for the cookies.

S’more Truffles

Red Velvet Crinkles

Dark Chocolate Cheesecake Brownies

Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Taste-tested recipes from the WV Living staff. zack harold photographed and styled by carla witt ford written by

taste ›› this

Raspberry White Chocolate Scones

Iced Thumbprint Cookies

Iced Sugar Cookies

White Chocolate Reese’s Fudge

Chewy Oatmeal M&M Cookies

this ‹‹ taste

Last year, the crew at WV Living started a new tradition. Instead of the usual gift exchange, each of us made a few dozen of our favorite cookies. Then, after our usual Christmas lunch, we all sampled each variety (tough work!) and voted for our favorites.

Sales Director Heather Mills’ Avalanche Cookies (see page 44) took the top spot. But really, there weren’t any losers—we all took home boxes of leftovers.

A cookie exchange is the perfect alternative to the humdrum gift exchange at your next family, church, or workplace holiday get-together.

To get you started, here are recipes we whipped up. For more cookie recipes go to wvliving.com/recipes

Raspberry White Chocolate Scones 2 cups all-purpose flour 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, plus extra for sprinkling 1 tablespoon baking powder ½ teaspoon salt 6 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces 6 ounces raspberries (fresh or frozen) ½ cup white chocolate chips 1 large egg 1 teaspoon vanilla extract ⅓ cup heavy cream 1. Preheat oven to 350˚.

2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in butter with pastry blender or your hands until mixture resembles coarse sand. Gently fold in raspberries and white chocolate chips. Set aside.

3. In a small bowl, beat together egg, vanilla, and heavy cream. Pour over scone batter and lightly mix until the dough comes together.

Dough will be sticky.

4. Turn out dough on a lightly floured surface, form a circle, and flatten it until it is about 1 inch thick. Using a sharp knife dipped in flour, cut 8 equal pie wedges. Transfer to a baking sheet using a flat spatula dipped in flour and sprinkle tops of scones with granulated sugar. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until lightly browned.

5. Serve warm or at room temperature. yield: 8 scones

White Chocolate Reese’s Fudge 1 bag small white chocolate Reese’s peanut butter cups 1 cup sugar ½ cup heavy cream ½ teaspoon salt ½ cup butter 2½ cups white chocolate chips 1 (7 ounce) tub marshmallow creme 1. Remove peanut butter cup wrappers and cut candies into fours.

2. Line 9x9-inch pan with parchment.

3. Place white chocolate chips and marshmallow fluff in a big bowl. Set aside.

4. In a pan, melt sugar, heavy cream, salt, and butter on medium heat until it starts to boil. Cook for 5 minutes.

5. Pour hot mixture into bowl of chocolate chips and mix with blender until smooth and soft.

6. Fold in half of the peanut butter cups.

Pour into pan.

7. Sprinkle remaining peanut butter cups on the top. Put in the fridge for 3 to 5 hours to set. yield: 12 pieces

Iced Thumbprint Cookies cookies 1 cup unsalted butter, softened ¼ cup granulated sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 cups all-purpose flour ½ teaspoon salt sprinkles icing 2 tablespoons milk 1¼ cup powdered sugar food coloring 1. Whisk flour and salt together in medium bowl; set aside.

2. In stand mixer fitted with paddle attachment, beat butter, sugar, and vanilla at medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes, scraping down sides and bottom of bowl with rubber spatula. Reduce speed to low and add flour mixture, mixing until incorporated. Wrap tightly in the plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

3. Heat oven to 325°. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

4. Roll a heaping tablespoon of dough into a 1½-inch ball, roll the ball in the sprinkles, and place it on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with remaining dough, spacing balls about 2 inches apart. Using your thumb, make an indentation in the center of each cookie. Bake for 10 minutes, or until slightly firm. Remove the cookie sheets from the oven. Using your thumb, press into the cookies again. Return the cookies to the oven until golden brown, 8 to 13 minutes. Remove cookies to a wire rack and allow to cool completely before icing.

5. To make the icing, whisk milk and powdered sugar together in a small bowl and add food coloring. Stir to combine and add more milk (up to 2 teaspoons more) to get a smooth and spoonable, but not runny, consistency. Fill centers with icing. Let set overnight. Cookies can be stored in airtight containers up to 1 week. yield: 4 dozen cookies wvliving.com 43

taste ›› this

Dark Chocolate Cheesecake Brownies brownies 1 cup butter or margarine 2 cups sugar 2 teaspoons vanilla 4 eggs ¾ cup dark chocolate cocoa 1 cup all-purpose flour ½ teaspoon baking powder ¼ teaspoon salt cheesecake 1 (8 ounce) package of cream cheese 1 egg ⅓ cup granulated sugar 1. Preheat oven to 350˚. Grease 9x9-inch cake pan or pie pan (pie pan works for thicker brownies).

2. Mix brownie ingredients in large bowl. In separate bowl, blend cream cheese, egg, and granulated sugar with mixer.

3. Pour brownie batter into pan and spread until even.

4. Using a tablespoon, place dollops of the cheesecake mixture throughout pan. Make sure to use all the cheesecake mixture.

Red Velvet Crinkles

Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

3 cups all-purpose flour ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder 2¼ teaspoons baking powder ¼ teaspoon baking soda ½ teaspoon kosher salt 1⅓ cup granulated sugar ¾ cup (1½ sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature, cubed 3 eggs, room temperature 1-2 tablespoons milk 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract 1 ounce red food coloring (this is generally about 1 regular-sized bottle) ½ cup white chocolate chips ½ cup milk chocolate chips 2 cups confectioners’ sugar

1 cup all-purpose flour ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder 1 teaspoon baking powder ¼ teaspoon baking soda ½ teaspoon salt 1½ cup packed brown sugar 3 medium eggs 4 teaspoons instant coffee powder (optional) 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 4 ounces unsweetened chocolate, chopped 4 tablespoons unsalted butter ½ cup granulated sugar ½ cup confectioners’ sugar

1. Preheat oven to 350˚. Prepare baking sheets by lining with parchment paper. Whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

2. Place sugar and butter in mixing bowl and beat until light and fluffy, no less than 3 minutes, scraping down bowl as needed. Add in eggs one at a time, adding the next only after the first has been fully combined. Add in milk, vanilla, and food coloring and beat until combined. Add in flour and mix until just moistened. Fold in chocolate.

6. Bake 15 to 20 minutes or until toothpick or fork comes out clean.

3. Place confectioners’ sugar in a bowl. Scoop 2-tablespoon-sized mounds of dough, roll in confectioners’ sugar, and place 3 inches apart on baking sheets. Bake 11-13 minutes, until set but not browned.

Allow to cool before transferring to wire racks. Cookies will keep well in airtight container for up to 4 days.

yield: 16-20 cookies

yield: 3 dozen cookies

5. Run a toothpick through the cheesecake and brownie batters to create marble design and spread the cheesecake out.

Avalanche Cookies 2 cups crispy rice cereal 1 cup mini marshmallows ½ cup creamy peanut butter 1 pound white chocolate ½ cup mini chocolate chips, optional

1. Adjust rack to middle and heat oven to 325˚. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment. Combine chocolate and butter in bowl and microwave at 50 percent power, stirring occasionally, until melted, 2 to 3 minutes. Cool.

2. Whisk together brown sugar, eggs, coffee powder, and vanilla together in large bowl. In another bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

3. Whisk cooled chocolate mixture into egg mixture until combined. Fold in flour mixture until no dry streaks remain. Refrigerate for 10 minutes.

4. Place granulated sugar and confectioners’ sugar in separate shallow dishes. Working with 2 tablespoons of dough at a time, roll into balls. Drop dough balls directly into granulated sugar and roll to coat. Transfer dough balls to confectioners’ sugar and roll to coat evenly. Space evenly on prepared sheets.

5. Bake cookies, 1 sheet at a time, until puffed and cracked and edges have begun to set but centers are still soft (cookies will look raw between cracks and seem underdone), about 12 minutes, rotating sheet halfway through baking. Let cool completely on sheet before serving. yield: about 2 dozen cookies

2. Mix cereal and marshmallows in a large bowl. Set aside.

6. Sprinkle with mini chocolate chips, if desired.

3. Melt white chocolate and peanut butter together in separate large bowl; microwave until smooth.

7. Place in refrigerator until chocolate is set.

note: Store airtight for up to 5 days 4. Once the white chocolate and peanut in a cool place. butter mixture is melted, pour it yield: 15-20 cookies over the cereal mixture and stir until completely coated.

1. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment 5. Drop using a tablespoon onto the paper; set aside. lined pans.

44 wvl • winter 2017

Live

E XPLORING THIS E X TRAORDINARY PL ACE WE CALL HOME

Free

Start a radio station. Leave your day job. Stand up for your fellow citizens. Take a vacation. Find freedom.

PICTURED: AN EAGLE CARVED BY JOHN GARTON, PAGE 51.

local ‹‹ live

We Want the Airwaves Charleston’s volunteer-driven, low-power FM station brings an eclectic mix and local programming to your radio dial. written by lori

kersey harold

photographed by zack

wvliving.com 47

live ›› local

WTSQ host Josh Beane works the faders in the station’s downtown Charleston studio.

I

t’s 8 p.m. on a Saturday, and Seth DiStefano is holed up in a small room on the eighth floor of the Union Building in downtown Charleston.

The city below is dark and quiet but, up here, DiStefano likes to play the music loud. If it weren’t for the company in the studio, he would probably be playing air guitar and drum, too.

“I’m so excited,” he says into the microphone.

“We are going to play the best band in the universe because you’ve earned it, Charleston.

You know how we feel about Tool.”

DiStefano, a lobbyist during the workweek, spends his Saturday nights hosting a twohour hard rock radio show on 88.1 FM WTSQ , otherwise known as the Status Quo, Charleston’s low-power FM station. It’s a 501(c)3 nonprofit that operates entirely on volunteer manpower and contributions from the community. The station celebrated its second anniversary in July 2017.

Like most of WTSQ’s nearly 60 volunteers,

48 wvl • winter 2017

DiStefano didn’t have experience as a radio DJ when he started more than a year ago—just a love for music and a desire to introduce people to the songs that get him pumped. “It’s really fun and fulfilling to be around people who geek out about music the same way that I do,” DiStefano says.

Tuning In

Chris Long, WTSQ’s founder and president, hadn’t worked in radio before the station started, either. Long worked in information technology before transitioning into a career as a registered nurse. A 38-year-old Boone County native, Long was shocked when he moved to Charleston in 2010 and found there wasn’t an alternative radio station. “The stations in town had been playing the same playlists since the ’80s,” Long says. “There wasn’t anyone playing some newer, edgier stuff.”

Long first thought about running a pirate radio station from his garage, at least until he

got caught. But he got lucky when he noticed an open Federal Communications Commission filing window for low-power FM radio stations.

It was a rare move for the FCC—it had been 10 years since the last open filing period.

He completed the application process and, after about a year and a half of waiting, Long got the official OK from the FCC in January 2015.

He officially started broadcasting in July 2015.

What you hear on WTSQ depends on when you tune in. The station plays music that ranges from jazz and hip hop to world and traditional folk music. There’s even a late-night talk show about sex and relationships.

Weekdays begin with the independent news program “Democracy Now.” A Sunday afternoon show, “Mountain State Update,” features a local news discussion. The station is hyper-focused on Charleston, and for good reason. At 100 watts, its signal only reaches between five and 10 miles from the downtown broadcasting tower.

local ‹‹ live

Some of WTSQ’s volunteer staff, from left to right: Matt Murphy, Josh Gaffin, Josh Beane, Chris Long, Caitlin Cook, Seth DiStefano, Kenny Lavender, and Ray Whiting.

The station often has a presence at events throughout the city, like the monthly Downtown Charleston ArtWalk, the Live on the Levee concert series, and Downtown Streetfest.

And even when WTSQ volunteers aren’t there, they’re promoting local organizations and events on the airwaves.

“There’s a lot going on in the city that’s very hip and cool,” Long says. “We want to be that outlet that really focuses on that. Because, unfortunately, commercial radio—regardless of community— the nature of the beast is not focused necessarily in the city that they reside in.”

Long sees WTSQ as a community service organization that happens be a radio station.

“It’s about bringing people from other nonprofits and organizations and events on the air and highlighting them and showcasing what incredible things we have here in Charleston.”

He says focusing on the good things going on in Charleston counteracts the negative attitude some of residents are prone to have. “Charleston can be a little too hard on itself and I don’t get that,” Long says. “I guess I kind of got that

here. We are not these fancy people that are doing this.”

While the station does a lot to promote the community, it also gets a lot back from it.

Cool Kids, Common People Contributions from members, underwriting organizations, and merchandise sales Matt Murphy was a substitute teacher when he started volunteering at the station in 2016. It was keep the station afloat. During the 2017 fall membership drive, enough members his first gig in radio, but it led to a part-time job signed on to cover WTSQ’s rent at the at West Virginia Radio Corporation. He now Union Building. “I really am amazed at splits his time between the two stations. He this community’s response to this entire hosts a show on WTSQ and does some of the endeavor,” Long says. operations work.

In addition to his full-time job as a registered He describes himself and the other nurse, Long puts in 15 to 20 hours during an volunteers as a bunch of educated “freaks and geeks” who banded together to become the cool average week in behind-the-scenes work at the station. He doesn’t have a show. “I work in a kids. Having the station’s call letters attached field where I literally resuscitate people, and this to their names has allowed some volunteers to is what I find rewarding,” Long said. “I know it get press credentials to meet artists at music comes across as a funny thing to say. But you’ll festivals and concerts, something they could find that similar sentiment amongst the DJs, have only dreamed of before.

“That takes a lot of getting used to,” Murphy amongst the volunteers.

“This gives my life a lot of value and a lot says. “To go from being a person on the street to of purpose.” having access that the ‘commoners’ don’t have.

And the thing is, we are all just commoners up before getting into the streets with volunteers.

The engagement has made me aware how vibrant the community is.”

wvliving.com 49

50 wvl • winter 2017

creatively ‚‚ live

Against the Grain

John Garton left veterinary medicine behind to bring wood to life. written by zack

harold photographed by nikki bowman

live ›› creatively

J

ohn Garton just wanted to get away from sick cats and dogs that had been hit by cars.

He was working as a veterinarian in Greenbrier County when his father had a stroke, so he returned home to Jane Lew to help his mother. It was then he met a young 4-H agent named Martha. They got married and bought a fully furnished house from a retired couple who’d left West Virginia in a camper bound for Texas.

Soon, their first child was on the way. Garton considered returning to his chosen profession, but just couldn’t bear the thought. So he went to the basement.

Along with all the other furnishings, the house’s previous owners had left a woodshop behind. Garton decided to use those tools to make a hobby horse for his soon-to-be-born son. He’d always had an artistic bent but had no formal artistic training. Still, he figured it wouldn’t be too difficult. “The first horsehead ended up in the fireplace.”

He kept at it, though. Before long, he had a beautifully crafted horse’s head. But it was much too large for a hobby horse. He made another.

It was still too large. He made four more. None were the appropriate size for a child’s toy. So Garton did the logical thing—he made bodies for his nearly life-size steeds.

One of Martha’s bosses stopped by the house for a visit. She also happened to run the Mountain State Art & Craft Fair in Ripley and,

52 wvl • winter 2017

impressed with Garton’s work, invited him to participate in the show. He sold a few carvings that year and noticed something. Unlike his clients at the vet clinic, everyone left his craft booth with a grin on their faces. “It was just so much more relaxing,” he says.

So instead of spending his time making animals better, Garton decided to devote his time to making them out of wood.

A Sawdust Menagerie

Garton kept making horses until 2000, when interest dried up and he shifted his focus to other farm animals. He made cows and pigs as well as rooster weathervanes and quirky carvings of chickens peeking between their legs.

Orders began piling up and Garton worried about his ability to keep up with demand. So, on the way back from a hunting trip, he floated an idea to his friend Joe Adkins. “I said, ‘Can you use a bandsaw?’ He said, ‘Probably.’ That was 14 years ago this month and he’s still here,” Garton says.

Adkins’ interest in hunting shifted Garton’s carving work in a whole new direction. The shop is now filled with deer, turkeys, bear, and dogs, most of which conceal hidden treasures.

Take the realistic-looking Tom turkey, carved from birdseye maple and captured in full strut.

Pull on his beard and out slides a turkey call.

Open his top, and you’ll find a bottle of Wild Turkey Reserve, signed by master distiller Jimmy Russell.

Whether it’s a full-size buck or a beer tap handle, Garton devotes the same attention to detail to every project.

creatively ‹‹ live “I tell people you’ve got to have three things to make it,” Garton says of his craft.

“You’ve got to have a God-

given talent and you’ve got to have the patience of Job. And you’ve got to have a wife with a hell of a good job.”

Garton has carved small black bears that hold bottles of honey bourbon and fullsized whitetail deer—with real antlers—that open to reveal liquor cabinets. Other animals serve as gun cabinets. His nine-foot-tall grizzly looks intimidating already, but pop a hidden latch and the beast opens to reveal a rifle rack.

He says the functional aspect of his work helps draw customers. “If it’s a piece of art, they’re hesitant to buy it. But if it has a function, they can justify it in their head.” It’s also clear Garton enjoys imbuing his work with hidden surprises. He says ideas mostly come from brainstorming sessions with Adkins and their friend Bud. “He’s an essential part of it,” Garton says of Bud. “His last name is Wiser.”

He also draws inspiration from his raw material. When he and Adkins go hunting, Garton always carries marking tape. Sometimes he brings along a small electric chainsaw in his backpack. “I want something with character.

And when I see it, I know it.”

Occasionally, he’s hit the woodcarver’s jackpot—a chunk of rare American chestnut. He found one such chunk near Spruce Knob and is now turning it into a door for a gun cabinet.

Still Chipping Away

September 15 of this year marked the 30th anniversary of Garton’s fateful trip to the basement.

Although he recognized the significance of the occasion, he didn’t tell many people about it.

“I was going to retire May 1,” he says. “But the orders just kept coming in and coming in and coming in.”

Garton has now decided that retirement doesn’t fit him. “If I don’t keep active I’ll just die.”

So while he’s scaling back his operation—he’s stopped selling at Tamarack and is no longer doing craft shows—the shop is still regularly turning out carvings, and he’s still taking orders.

Just be warned: There’s one kind of project Garton will not take on. Bereaved owners used to commission him to make carvings of their dearly departed pets—only to get upset when the finished work didn’t bear a close enough resemblance to their precious Fifi.

So Garton doesn’t do portrait projects anymore.

After all, he got into this business to get away from dead pets. gartonoriginals.com wvliving.com 53

listings From historic houses to picturesque farms to quaint cottages, there’s a special place in West Virginia calling your name. Check out these extraordinary properties from around the state.

Cafe Cimino Country Inn, 616 Main Street, Sutton - $2,200,000 MLS: 10117709

Casual elegance in the heart of WV: Cafe Cimino Country Inn, a lovely historic mansion & grounds gracefully situated on banks of Elk River. World-class dining, luxurious lodging, and comfortable southern hospitality. Named one of 20 Best Inns in the South by Southern Living magazine in 2016. Voted Best Chef, Best Fine Dining, & Best B&B year after year by readers of WV Living magazine. Property & business are offered for sale. Multiple purchasing options.

Howard Hanna Premier Properties by Barbara Alexander, LLC, 304.594.0115

home marketplace

wvliving.com 55

56 wvl • winter 2017

Don’t Overlook Germany Valley Overlook Cabins is a scenic place to rest your head after a day of outdoor adventure. written and photographed by nikki

bowman

wvliving.com 57

live ›› away

If

you want to experience Almost Heaven, spend the weekend at Germany Valley Overlook Cabins.

It is hard to describe the panoramic view without enlisting clichés like “breathtaking,” “jaw-dropping,” and “heartstopping,” but when I think about sitting on the porch of Cabin 2 and watching the sun set over the undulating hills of Germany Valley, I truly can’t find an adjective that describes the view without sounding melodramatic. I even thought about just saying, “Since photos are worth a thousand words, see photo above,” but the photograph doesn’t even do it justice. So I’m just going to say, “Go!” (But please save me one weekend a year.)

When you go, choose from one of the four cabins that sleep six to nine people and are surrounded by 170 acres of pastureland grazed by cattle. And this is worthy to note: The cows aren’t afraid to invite themselves to dinner.

The newest lodging option, Lookout Cabin, was built to resemble a fire tower. The others are more traditional. All of the cabins have fully equipped kitchens, baths with showers, 58 wvl • winter 2017

central air and heat, towels and linens, fire pits with wood, and picnic tables and Adirondack chairs—this is important because you won’t be able to tear yourself away from the view (OK, I’m being melodramatic again).

Germany Valley has been designated a National Natural Landmark because it is one of the largest and most extensive karst and cave systems in the country. The area is hemmed in by the Allegheny Mountains with Spruce Knob, Dolly Sods, and Seneca Rocks within close proximity. The cabins serve as a strategic base for outdoor recreation. There are tons of hiking, fishing, and hunting options. Seneca Caverns, located in the valley, is only 10 minutes away.

Seneca Rocks Discovery Center is just 15 miles away, and the highest point in the state, Spruce Knob, is just a couple miles farther. Only 4 miles from the cabin is Nelson Rocks Outdoor Center, where you can climb the Via Ferrata or enjoy the Zipline Canopy Tour. If you like to whitewater raft, Eagle’s Nest Outfitters is located less than 40 miles from the cabins.

You can also use the cabins as a base for enjoying the state by train. The Potomac Eagle at Petersburg, the Cass Scenic Railroad, and

the Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad are all less than 40 miles away. You can use the cabins as a launchpad even in winter, although you’ll probably want to arrive in a four-wheel-drive vehicle. It only takes 40 minutes to get to Canaan Valley, where Canaan Valley Resort, White Grass, and Timberline offer downhill skiing, cross country skiing, tubing, and ice skating. Even Snowshoe is only 60 miles away.

Although the cabins have full kitchens— don’t forget to bring your groceries and supplies—you’ll want to try the nearby restaurants, with Gateway Restaurant in Riverton being the closest. Here you’ll find burgers, sandwiches, home-cooked meals, and delicious pies.

Germany Valley Overlook Cabins are located on Route 33 at the scenic overlook on North Mountain in Pendleton County, approximately 10 miles west of Franklin and 4 miles east of Judy Gap. Prices range from $135 to $200 a night, with a two-night minimum and discounts for weeklong stays. germanyvalleycabins.com

out loud ‚‚ live

Speaking for the Homeless

A Charleston attorney gains national recognition for defending homeless rights. ferrell knisely

ZACK HAROLD

written by amelia

wvliving.com 59

A

camp along the Elk River, home to some of Charleston’s most vulnerable men and women, was dismantled last year—the homeless campers forced to move on, their personal belongings thrown in the trash.

There was no warning from city officials before police officers took apart the campsite, known locally as “Tent City.” There was no time to pack up what was, for some, their home of several years.

Attorney Sam Petsonk stood on the banks of the river and watched the scene unfold.

Six months later, he was spearheading a legal challenge against Charleston Mayor Danny Jones and the city’s police department. Petsonk contended the city had violated the rights of Tent City residents. “We wanted the litigation to represent that what happened to the homeless was illegal and incorrect,” says Petsonk, a Morgantown native has spent much of his career representing low-income West Virginians, primarily in workers’ compensation cases.

Tent City had been a long-term community for its inhabitants—a community providing structure, rules, and safety. “The sense of loss of a homeplace and support for those folks was sudden. That was among the most significant concerns,” Petsonk says.

60 wvl • winter 2017

Speaking Up

John W. had been living in Tent City for five years with his wife. “That day was a very bad day for a lot of homeless people,” he says, his voice breaking. “The cops gave us five minutes to get what we could, pack up, and leave. We lost food, social security cards, pictures of our children.”

Mountain State Justice, a nonprofit law firm for which Petsonk is an attorney, has had a longstanding relationship with homeless service providers in Charleston, a city with more than 1,000 individuals living in shelters or on the streets.

Petsonk and his fellow attorneys first became involved with Tent City in summer 2014 when a camper walked into their Quarrier Street office and said police officers were threatening to shut down the campsite. Soon after the interaction, Charleston police agreed that they would notify Mountain State Justice and Tent City residents if an eviction was to occur, Petsonk says.

But a year and a half later, on January 9, 2016, without notifying the attorneys or the campers, Jones ordered city workers to dismantle Tent City, citing safety concerns in the 5 degree weather.

“Police were all over the river bank,” Petsonk says. “A row of trash compactors were lined up on Spring Street above Tent City, and

police were facilitating the municipal workers in removing the tents, food, clothing, furniture.

“Most (campers) did not stay around. Most had fled as soon as they could gather what they could carry on their backs. Being homeless is not a crime, but the homeless population is often misunderstood as a criminal population, so naturally homeless folks had concern when their encampment was swarmed by police.”

Jones told the media that he hoped the eviction would propel the campers, ranging from 18 years old to retirement age, to find help.

Petsonk began to document what had occurred and pursued legal action, acting as lead counsel on a class-action lawsuit filed by two of the campers. He worked with Mountain State Justice attorney Lydia Milnes, who has had a relationship with Tent City residents since 2014.

John was one of the plaintiffs on the suit, which claimed the eviction and the destruction of residents’ property had violated both the U.S. and state constitutions. “The United States of America’s intergovernmental policy on homelessness clearly states that it is improper to force the dispersal of homeless encampments,” the complaint reads in part, maintaining that such dispersal “accomplishes nothing toward the goal of linking people to permanent housing opportunities.”

COURTESY OF MOUNTAIN STATE JUSTICE

live ›› out loud

out loud ‹‹ live

COURTESY OF MOUNTAIN STATE JUSTICE

On January 9, 2016, Charleston municipal workers dismantled a homeless encampment along the Elk River,

Petsonk kept the suit shielded from the public and instead went directly to city officials in an attempt to collaborate for an outcome that would benefit the plaintiffs and the city. Beyond monetary restitution for members of Tent City, Petsonk hoped the suit would push the city to develop a protocol for any future encampment evictions. “The mayor’s office really engaged in conversation with the plaintiffs and the homeless services community to try to come up with a better approach,” Petsonk says.

John, who months before had been living in a tent by the river, found himself in front of the city’s leaders and homeless service providers to advocate for the homeless population. “Just because you’re homeless doesn’t mean you don’t have rights,” John says. “I was glad to speak up and let them know what was going on.”

The case never went to trial. Petsonk and city officials reached a settlement in August of this year, and the case was dismissed in September.

The settlement included $20,000 for those evicted from Tent City, available for residents in $1,200 vouchers from local businesses.

An Evolving Situation

John and his wife are now in permanent housing. The media coverage of the eviction also resulted in him being reunited with his daughter. “If it wasn’t for Sam, none of this could have happened,” he says.

As part of the settlement, the city agreed to build storage lockers that will be available for those experiencing homelessness—a direct request from John on behalf of the homeless community. “It was John’s voice that gave rise to the homeless storage facility, and

destroying many personal belongings of the peopel who lived there.

he was able to take those demands to City Council,” Petsonk says. “Now, the clients on the streets feel they can camp without the fear of the destruction of their property.”

The case also spurred City Council to pass a homeless encampment policy that requires the city to give at least 14 days’ written notice to encampment residents and homeless services providers. The ordinance also bars the city from immediately throwing personal property into the trash.

Most notably, it requires the city and its service providers to provide permanent housing for the residents of the encampment— one of only two U.S. cities required to provide alternative housing prior to evicting an encampment.

The National Law Center on Homelessness and Poverty, a D.C.-based organization that supported Petsonk during the litigation, celebrated the success and invited Petsonk to speak at a national homelessness advocacy forum about the litigation. “Sam’s work represents a model we hope other communities can learn from and implement,” says Maria Foscarinis, executive director of the center.

On a conference call with the two men, Petsonk kept downplaying John’s praise— rather, he says it was John’s advocacy that brought about the suit’s success. But he hopes the suit’s strategy, allowing those experiencing homelessness to be at the forefront of public discussions, will be Charleston officials’ approach moving forward. “We are comfortable now with that conversation,” Petsonk says.

The city’s response to what officials call “a growing homelessness problem” is still evolving. In November, Charleston’s Homeless Task Force introduced two measures before City Council aimed at reducing the number of panhandlers. One measure would require anyone asking for money to obtain and display a permit.

Petsonk says these ordinances would be ineffective at combatting homelessness, as it would simply push people on the streets out of sight. wvliving.com 61

✯

WEST VIRGINIAN OF

Reclaiming Rediscovering Refreshing Revitalizing Rewiring

Revisioning APPALACHIA

Brandon Dennison, WV Living’s inaugural West Virginian of the Year, sees what West Virginia is really missing. And it’s not just jobs and education.

written by Zack Harold

THE YEAR ✯

ZACK HAROLD

W

hen Brandon Dennison’s car pulls up to the old Corbin Ltd. factory on Huntington’s West End, he finds a crew of employees on a scissor lift installing a sign above a basement door.

The sign, which reads “Business Development Center,” should have been installed the day before. Reporters and city leaders will arrive in just over an hour for a ribbon cutting ceremony. But it’s not a big deal. Dennison’s company, Coalfield Development Corporation, is a flexible organism. If something needs to be done, they just do it.

After a quick chat with the sign crew, Dennison makes a check of the business center. Crew members—that’s what Coalfield calls its employees—have moved some old church pews into the space for the press conference.

Check. There’s a simple lectern up front with a vinyl banner against the wall. Looks good. To the side, a folding table with cardboard jugs of coffee and sheetcake for attendees.

Chocolate and white cake. Check.

Pleased with the setup, Dennison continues his walkabout.

He pokes his head in the bathroom around the corner. It still needs to be cleaned before the press conference. He asks Ryan Stoner, Coalfield’s director of personal development, to handle it. “There’s some gloves upstairs,” he tells Stoner. “You’ll want some gloves.” Dennison is already headed up the stairs. One gets the sense he would have cleaned the bathroom himself, if he were not being followed by a reporter.

Passing through the factory’s second floor, Dennison points out future uses for different sections of the building. See the hole where the hardwood floor was removed? That was torn up as part of Coalfield’s Reclaim Appalachia enterprise, which sells salvaged construction materials to interior designers seeking a rustic look—now Coalfield will use that expanded headroom to put a black box theater on the ground floor.

Feet away from the gaping hole, the company is planning an “artisan village” where glassblowers, metalworkers, and the like will set up cubicles to make and sell their wares. Hang a right and you’ll find a space that will be rented out for art exhibitions, conferences, wedding receptions, and any other event that needs a huge open area.

Dennison crosses the concrete floor toward the back of the building, home of Saw’s Edge Woodshop, part of his company’s

64 wvl • winter 2017

Some are located on former strip mine sites.

It is now almost time for the ribbon cutting. Dennison heads back downstairs for a few final preparations. The press conference will feature Huntington Mayor Steve Williams and Jason Moses of the Moses Auto Group, which donated $20,000 to open the business center. But Dennison will speak first.

After welcoming attendees, he offers a quick recap of the factory’s recent history. He recalls for everyone how, after Corbin left town, the 93,000-square-foot warehouse became a haven for drug addicts, homeless people, scrap metal scavengers, and rabid dogs. The building that once held the community together began to tear it apart.

Coalfield purchased the building in 2014—for $1 per square foot, if that tells you anything—and began moving its various enterprises into the space. After just one year, police calls to the neighborhood dropped by 42 percent.

Banks estimated property values rose by 12 percent.

Dennison told how the business center where attendees were now sitting was once filled with derelict offices and mounds of dirt. “Our crew members would not work down here alone,” he says. “There was a de facto buddy system, it was so creepy.” Now, the space had two clients ready to move their own businesses into the remodeled space.

He ends his comments with a few thoughts about what it takes to start a business. ”Entrepreneurs are unique individuals in the head,” he says. “Instead of saying ‘I have a goal’ and making a list of all the things they need

left When Coalfield Development Corporation purchased the derelict Corbin Ltd. factory on Huntington’s West End, the place was a haven for drug activity, homeless people, metal scavengers, and rabid dogs. Now it’s the home of several entrepreneurial endeavors. right A work-inprogress at Coalfield's Saw’s Edge Woodshop, housed in the old Corbin property.

NIKKI BOWMAN

Rediscover Appalachia enterprise. The sawdusted space is usually filled with the whine of power tools, but crew members are on break so the shop is deserted and quiet. He pauses to appreciate a wall hanging of intricately cut wood and glass. It’s a new design by one of the crew members that, like many of the pieces produced here, features the outline of West Virginia.

Out the back door of the shop, Dennison finds Christopher Scarberry and another crew member working to fix the wood shop’s exhaust fan. Scarberry climbs off his ladder to tell the boss about the house he just purchased. They commiserate for a moment on the joys of mortgage payments before Scarberry goes back to work and Dennison continues his rounds. “This is the first place I’ve ever worked where the higher-up people actually care how you’re doing,” Scarberry says later.

Dennison points out the practice roof where crew members with Coalfield’s Rewire Appalachia enterprise learn to install solar panels. Nearby, there is a high tunnel where crew members with the Refresh Appalachia enterprise grow vegetables that are sold through farmers’ markets, food distributors, and a consumer-supported agriculture program. Back inside the factory and through a couple doors, Dennison steps into a humid room filled with grow lights and aquaponic tubs. This is where Refresh Appalachia grows the microgreens it sells to chefs around Huntington. The West Edge location is just one of the enterprise’s eight agricultural facilities, which are spread throughout Cabell, Lincoln, Mingo, and Wayne counties.

Huntington Mayor Steve Williams, Brandon Dennison, and Halcyon and Jason Moses pose for

a photo following a ribbon-cutting for the new West Edge Business Development Center.

to make it happen, the entrepreneur says ‘I have a goal.

What do I have right now to realize those goals?’”

Dennison was referring to the business center’s tenants.

But, whether he realized it or not, he was also describing the philosophy that drives the Coalfield Development Corporation.

Since its inception just over six years ago, Dennison’s company has been taking things readily available in Appalachia—like old strip mines, abandoned factories, and out-of-work people—and using them toward a common goal: creating a new economy for West Virginia.

COURTESY OF COALFIELD DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

More than Charity

Randy Tremba used to hold a meeting every Tuesday morning when he was pastor of Shepherdstown Presbyterian Church.

It was a way to assess the successes and failures of the previous Sunday’s service and begin to think about the coming Sunday: which hymns would be sung, which scripture would be read, and how the passage might intersect with congregants’ lives.

Tremba was the kind of leader who liked hearing other people’s opinions and insights, so he always pulled a small group of church members into these meetings. Some attendees rotated in and out but, between 2004 and 2009, two people were always there: Ethel Hornbeck, the church’s director of spiritual formation, and Brandon Dennison, then an undergrad at Shepherd University.

Tremba remembers Dennison “just showed up” one day in the fall of 2004. He had attended a Presbyterian church growing up in Huntington and was looking for a congregation to attend while in school. He asked Tremba for an appointment so he could learn more about the church. “He wasn’t a typical 18 year old,” Tremba says. “I instantly sensed he was a gifted young man.”

Tremba made Dennison the director of the church’s youth program. Dennison connected with the kids quickly, especially since most of them weren’t much younger than himself. He sat with them in the balcony during services, led them on nature hikes, took them to stock car races, and made a point to attend their sports games. “They thought he was cool, so he made church cool,” Tremba says.

The youth group also did frequent service projects, in keeping with the church’s commitment to social justice.

Dennison took his kids on weekend mission trips to Washington, D.C., where they worked in soup kitchens and cleaned apartments for the needy. In 2008, 20 teenagers and four chaperones from Shepherdstown Presbyterian spent a week at the White Mountain Apache Reservation in Arizona. The volunteers were split into two groups, which alternated between repairing homes and spending time with the children at the reservation’s daycare facility. Dennison gathered everyone at the end of every day to talk about their experiences. “It was a huge wake-up call for all of us,

especially the young people who have it pretty good,” says Melinda Schmitt, a youth group mother who chaperoned the Arizona trip.

Dennison was coming to his own realization: “I had this nagging sense that none of these places were my place in the world.”

A few years later, Schmitt chaperoned another mission trip with Dennison. This time the church headed to Mingo County. “There were holes in roofs. Holes in floors,” she says. Just like in Arizona, Dennison gathered the youth group each night to talk about their experiences.

Schmitt says many were shocked to see these living conditions in their home state. wvliving.com 65

top The Saw’s Edge Woodshop in a rare quiet moment. bottom Brandon Dennison, CEO of Coalfield Development

Corporation, started the business to help break the cycle of poverty in Appalachia.

“As we were working, these two guys came walking down the road with tool belts on their shoulders,” Dennison says. They stopped and asked if the crew was hiring. When Dennison replied no, they were just a volunteer group, the men with the toolbelts walked on.

“In the moment it wasn’t a big deal. But reflecting on that, I felt it symbolized the whole deal in southern West Virginia.

You’ve got people who have skills, have agency, and want to work. The problem is not with the people. But because it’s such a depressed area, you don’t have anywhere to apply that gumption.”

It was a problem all the mission trips in the world couldn’t fix. “I have so much respect for people who run food banks.

I’m not demeaning that at all. But all the food banks in the world are not going to move West Virginia to its full potential,” Dennison says. “How do we get to where we don’t need them?

“If there’s all this work that needs to be done, why not create jobs locally so people can get paid to do that?”

In the summer of 2011, Dennison was interning at the Wayne County Housing Authority as part of his master’s program at Indiana University’s specialized nonprofit management program. One day, he met his longtime friend Chase Thomas for lunch at Applebee’s at the Huntington Mall.

The two were just supposed to catch up. But while they ate, Dennison began laying out his idea for a not-for-profit business that would rehabilitate housing and salvage building supplies from structures that can’t be rehabilitated. The organization would hire local people to do the work and, since it would generate revenue just like any other construction business, would not have to rely as much on grants from government agencies and foundations.

Dennison also wanted to offer employees college classes and pay them stipends for their hours in the classroom.

With all these pieces together, the company could improve the housing stock for low-income families, inject money into the local economy, and create a well-trained, welleducated workforce.

Dennison figured he could handle the administrative side of things. But he lacked the technical skills to manage a construction site. He needed a foreman, but it had to be someone would understood the goals of the organization.

“It’s like he was wrestling in his mind, does this person exist?” Thomas says. “I don’t know if he was speaking to me, but he said, ‘I’ve gotta have a foreman.’ I had the sense to say, ‘I would be interested in that.’”

Thomas had been working for a Charleston engineering firm for two years and was making good money, especially for a single guy with no real responsibilities. But he wasn’t satisfied. “I was at the 66 wvl • winter 2017

MILLS GROUP, COURTESY OF COALFIELD DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

More than Jobs

COURTESY MILLS GROUP

point, this is too comfortable,” he says. “I want to use my talents for the greater good.”

There was just one problem. Thomas would need a general contractor’s license before the company could take on any jobs. And while he understood the math and knew how to run a saw and swing a hammer, he didn’t know how to run a construction site.

This did not worry Dennison. “He could really bring out your positivity and talent,” Thomas says. Dennison connected Thomas with Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity in Pendleton County, where he spent three months learning to manage a construction project.

Just a month after Thomas finished his apprenticeship in February 2012, Coalfield Development Corporation hired its first crew. It was rough going at first. The company had landed a job demolishing flooded houses in Spring Valley.

“We all have our new tools and they’re just looking at me.

That’s when it all just set in.” Thomas says.

Dennison and Thomas expected some of their employees, many of whom came from backgrounds of generational poverty, would have trouble with “soft skills” like showing up to work on time and maintaining a strong work ethic. “It was believing a little bit of the stereotype of Appalachia,” Thomas says. For the most part, they were wrong. “We

were shocked—positively—by the work. Every single crew member beat us there on the first day. They were the hardest-working people I’ve ever met in my life.”

But there were other challenges they never expected.

One crew member was living with his wife and daughter in an extended family member’s basement. “He acted like he had struck gold,” Thomas says. Then, without warning, they got kicked out. Even though it would mean throwing away the chance for a college degree, the crew member felt he had to quit Coalfield and try to find a job with better pay. It took a while, but Thomas and Dennison were able to convince him to stay.

Another early crew member jumped from one tumultuous relationship to another, and the drama spilled over into his work life. “When he was having a high moment, he was an incredible crew member,” Thomas says.

But when things went bad, he lashed out, disrespected his co-workers, and missed work.

Most companies would fire an employee for acting that way. But Coalfield wanted to help crew members overcome these attitudes. “We came to understand ... it was the personal stuff that got in the way of their success,” Dennison says. “They were plenty smart.

They were plenty hardworking. It was just all those life

Crew members with Coalfield’s Rewire Appalachia enterprise demonstrate the installation of a solar panel.

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Coalfield Development opened Trout’s Hill Coffee & Cafe in Wayne as a way to create jobs in the

depressed community and generate revenue for the company’s other endeavors.

challenges. That’s what was really getting in the way of people reaching their full potential.”

Dennison and Thomas realized giving people jobs and sending them to college wasn’t enough to break the cycle of poverty. Coalfield had to find a way to incorporate life skills into its program.

As of December 2017, Coalfield has created more than 100 new jobs, including more than 70 in its five enterprises spread across five West Virginia counties. Workers have obtained at least 250 professional certifications and revitalized more than 175,000 square feet of abandoned property. The company’s efforts have led to the formation of 16 new businesses in southern West Virginia: the five entreprises, its Trout’s Hill Coffee & Cafe in Wayne, and 10 new businesses Coalfield seed-funded at its inaugural WV Good Jobs Conference in November.

Those metrics are impressive. They’re also easy to measure. But Coalfield is having an effect on the state that is much more difficult to quantify.

Although each of the company’s enterprises has a different focus, they are each bound together by the 33-63 model. Each crew member spends 33 hours on the job each week and six hours in the classroom working toward a college degree. But Dennison says it’s those last three hours—the ones devoted to life skills mentorship—that have become the most important.

For two weeks each month, Coalfield’s 12 crews begin each day with a life skills lesson. Each week focuses on a different professional or personal principle, and each principle is embodied by a notable West Virginian. Crew members learn about good decisionmaking by studying Bluefield-born mathematician John Nash and his contributions to game theory. They learn about problem solving through Michael Owens, who invented machines to automate the production of glass bottles. Coalfield teaches crew members about grit through the story of Robert C. Byrd, who earned two college degrees while serving in the U.S. Congress.

Crew members write journal entries about these principles. Then, at the end of the work day, they’re given time to reflect. “We don’t want to tell anybody how to live their life. But we do want to create the space for thoughtful reflection, which is a gift in our chaotic times,” Dennison says.

Then, on the third week of each month, crew members get a break from the journals to complete a “shared experience” connected with the themes they’ve been studying. When they learned about focus, crew chiefs took 68 wvl • winter 2017

COURTESY OF COALFIELD DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION, NIKKI BOWMAN

The 33-6-3 Model

top Coalfield crew members frame up a wall. In addition to gaining on-the-job experience and earning

college degrees, crew members take part in a life skills mentorship program. bottom Dennison

talks with attendees of a Labor Day picnic his company held for former Corbin Ltd. employees.

their workers skeet shooting. When the theme was long-view decisionmaking, everyone learned to play chess and had a tournament.

Dennison says many crew members initially dread the life skills portion of Coalfield’s program. But eventually, most come to appreciate it. “One journal prompt is not going to change a mindset. But over time it creates a mindset,” he says. “It’s kind of become the crucial element.”

Josh Napier was on Coalfield’s first crew. He attended Marshall University after high school, aiming to become a math teacher. But then his girlfriend thought she was pregnant, so Napier left school to get a full-time job. He got his underground mining certification, but this was 2011. “I tried to get a job at the mines right as they were all shutting down.” He ended up working at a fast food restaurant.

Then one day his high school construction teacher called and told him about Coalfield Development Corporation. When Napier learned he’d be able to work, get paid, and get a degree, he was all in. He enjoyed the deconstruction work and excelled in the classroom, even tutoring his fellow crew members. But he was skeptical about the company’s life skills curriculum. “At first I was like, ‘Why are we doing this?’ I didn’t understand people trying to get involved in my personal life.”

At the same time, Napier recognized that his upbringing had left him with habits that stood in the way of future success.

“I grew up living off food stamps. I lived with my grandmother and she didn’t have enough money to afford to buy us anything.

When it came Christmastime, we got very little.” When Napier started working and making his own money, “I went and bought the things I wanted.” And more often than not, those spending habits left him broke.

This was in the early days, before Coalfield had developed its full life skills curriculum. The company was small enough back then that Dennison and Thomas spent an hour each week just talking with crew members about their lives. When they recognized Napier’s bad habits with money, they brought in a financial adviser to offer money management classes and helped him establish a savings account.

Napier says the classes were life-changing. He learned to prioritize his needs over his wants, start thinking long-term about his finances, and begin to build his family’s financial future.

This is what those impressive numbers can’t convey. Forget the jobs created, revenue generated, and college degrees earned.

Coalfield’s biggest impact on West Virginia’s economy is the wellrounded, productive citizens its life skills mentorship curriculum is producing.

At the center of it all is Dennison—the enterprising Presbyterian with a heart for people and a mind for business, changing lives with a company built from scrap wood, derelict factories, and downcast people the rest of society has forgotten.

“I don’t think I’ve met anybody else that can have a vision in the worst situation you can imagine,” Thomas says.

“He sees something different than what we see.”

COURTESY OF COALFIELD DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

“

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t s e BWestof

a i n i g Vir

We all know the best Virginia went west. But how do you find the best of best? That’s where we come in. Five years ago, WV Living debuted our inaugural “Best of West Virginia” issue to highlight our readers’ favorite businesses, nonprofits, towns, and people.

The “Best of West Virginia” honors have grown each year, both in the number of votes—this year, we received hundreds of nominations, followed by thousands of votes—and the number of categories. You’ll find more than 60 categories in these pages including, in honor of the fifth anniversary, a selection of special “Editors’ Choice” categories.

It’s an exciting challenge to compile this list each year, especially when we know it will never be definitive. West Virginians are doing new, exciting, creative things every day. Somewhere, someone could be starting a business or making art that will earn a place in these pages next year.

So stay tuned, folks. Best Virginia is getting better all the time.

STATE PARK/FOREST

ADVENTURE OUTFITTER

FIVE-TIME WINNER

ACE Adventure Resort built its business on whitewater rafting in the New River Gorge, and rafting is still a big draw for the company.

But as the gorge has become more and more popular for adventure-seeking families, ACE has added lots of additional activities that will keep kids of all ages entertained, including the five-acre Wonderland Water Park, which features water slides and inflatable toys, paddleboarding, rock climbing, paintball, ziplining, and more. 1 Concho Road Minden, 800.787.3982, aceraft.com

BLACKWATER FALLS ACE ADVENTURE STATE PARK RESORT

You can’t say one without the other.

The towns of Thomas and Davis share a unique location in Canaan Valley and serve as the perfect weekend getaway. The list of shops, restaurants, breweries, outdoor activities, and lodging options is endless. canaanvalley.org RUNNER-UP

LEWISBURG

This charming and historic town was a close runner-up and is a favorite place to escape to. greenbrierwv.com

Trailing not far behind, AOTG offers several activities, like whitewater rafting, ziplining, and rock climbing to name a few. 219 Chestnutburg Road Lansing, 855.379.8738 adventuresonthegorge.com

RIVER RIDERS

The New River area isn’t the only place for adventure. River Riders in Harpers Ferry offers whitewater rafting, tubing, aerial adventures, paddleboarding, and ziplining, too.

408 Alstadts Hill Road, Harpers Ferry, 304.535.2663, riverriders.com

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A couple miles southeast of Davis is one of West Virginia’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Within the 2,500 acres of 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

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CASINO AT CHARLES TOWN RACES Home to West Virginia’s oldest horse racing venue, The Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races is a renowned Mountain State destination that offers a Vegas-themed gaming atmosphere with 1930s art deco flair. In addition to racing and games, Hollywood Casino has a 150-room hotel, several restaurants including the Wine Spectator award-winning Final Cut Steakhouse, and a 1,200seat music and comedy venue. The casino, resort, and track added video lottery machines in 1996 and now has nearly 3,000 machines as well as 100 table games. 750 Hollywood Drive, Charles Town, 800.795.7001 hollywoodcasinocharlestown.com

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SKI RESORT

SNOWSHOE MOUNTAIN RESORT FIVE-TIME WINNER Five-time winner Snowshoe Mountain Resort has 251 acres of skiable terrain and 57 trails snaking across three epic skiing areas. Lodging covers all types, from condos to townhomes to luxurious accommodations boasting gas fireplaces and whirlpool tubs. The charming village contains a plethora of dining and shopping options, a 3,600-square-foot spa, a teen center, and free shuttle service. 10 Snowshoe Drive, Snowshoe, 304.572.4636, snowshoemtn.com

FAMILY VACATION SPOT SPA

TUSCAN SUN SPA & SALON

Cheri Satterfield opened her first Tuscan Sun Spa in 2004 in Clarksburg. Twelve years later, she has expanded to locations in Morgantown and Fairmont.

With a full spa, Aveda hair salon, medical spa, children’s spa, boutique, and West Virginia’s largest laser center, Tuscan brings cutting-edge technology and techniques to its clients.

From weight loss and laser treatments to massages and manicures, this luxurious spa offers more than just a modern hairstyle. 482 Emily Drive Clarksburg, 304.326.2204; 1013 Fairmont Avenue Fairmont, 304.333.0281; 401 Boyers Avenue, Morgantown 304.296.1325; tuscanspaandsalon.com

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SUMMERSVILLE LAKE

This lake is West Virginia’s largest, deepest body of water and one of the state’s most popular tourist destinations. Each year, around 1 million people flock to the lake to boat, camp, swim, fish, climb, dive, or just kick back.summersvillecvb.com RUNNERS-UP

HARPERS FERRY NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK

PLACE TO PLAY GOLF

THE GREENBRIER FIVE-TIME WINNER Hands down, the best place to play golf in the state is The Greenbrier. Since the PGA TOUR FedEx Cup came to The Greenbrier, the world-class professional golfers like Tiger Woods, Bubba Watson, and Lee Trevino have played on The Old White TPC, one of The Greenbrier’s three 18-hole championship courses. 300 West Main Street White Sulphur Springs, 855.453.4858, greenbrier.com RUNNERS-UP

OGLEBAY

History buffs of all ages will love the guided tours provided by park rangers, allowing visitors to quite literally follow in Brown’s radical footsteps. nps.gov/hafe

Golfers can choose among four championship courses at this Wheeling resort. 465 Lodge Drive, Wheeling, 877.436.1797 oglebay.com

STONEWALL RESORT

CANAAN VALLEY RESORT

This luxurious resort was designed after a 1930s Adirondack-style hotel and offers golf, fine dining, and recreation for the entire family.

940 Resort Drive, Roanoke 304.269.7400, stonewallresort.com

This 18-hole, par 72 golf course features 65 sand bunkers and eight water hazards. 230 Main Lodge Road, Davis, 800.622.4121 canaanresort.com

DRINK FIVE-TIME WINNER Opened in 1997, this Capitol Street institution is a favorite hangout for Charlestonians of all ages.

Whether you prefer classic vanilla or something a bit more extravagant— like raspberry chocolate chip—Ellen’s has a lengthy menu of all-natural ice creams, sorbets, and gelatos.

225 Capitol Street, Charleston 304.343.6488, ellensicecream.com @ellenshomemadeicecream on Facebook RUNNERS-UP

AUSTIN’S HOMEMADE ICE CREAM

This beloved seasonal ice cream parlor opened a second location in downtown Huntington in November 2017. 1103 C Street, Kenova 304.453.2071, @austinsicecream on Facebook

DAIRY CREME CORNER

If soft serve is more your style, this Fairmont favorite serves up the biggest cones in town—a large stands about a foot tall. 187 Homewood Avenue, Fairmont, 304.366.6809 “Dairy Creme Corner” on Facebook

BAKERY

SPRING HILL PASTRY SHOP FIVE-TIME WINNER “Hot dogs”—elongated, donut-like pastries filled with cream and topped with powdered sugar and sometimes chocolate—are a favorite treat at bakeries around the Kanawha Valley. But if you want the original, head to Spring Hill. You’d better show up early or call ahead, though, because these puppies sell out fast.

Spring Hill is also known for its delicious cakes, pies, pastries, and cookies. You won’t find any fancy coffee drinks here—just a hardworking, family-run business committed to making its customers’ special occasions a little more special.

600 Chestnut Street, South Charleston, 304.768.7397 springhillpastry.com, “Spring Hill Pastry Shop” on Facebook RUNNER-UP

ROCK CITY CAKE COMPANY

See Rock City? This cake shop started business in Logan but moved to Charleston in 2016, where customers immediately began making noise about its gourmet cupcakes. 241 Capitol Street, Charleston, 681.265.9154, rockcitycakeco.com @rockcitycakeco on Facebook

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Wedding bells always ring at Bonnie Belle’s. Seventy years ago master baker Richard Hawkins and his wife, Bonnie Belle, started the bakery in a barn before opening the first store in Nutter Fort. They passed down their gift and recipes to their late son Jim, his wife, Linda, and their grandson Patrick. While it is a premium bakery, with cupcakes, petit fours, cookies, and Cup-A-Cakes made using only the best ingredients, the bakery also specializes in custom wedding and celebration cakes.

From elegant to traditional to one-of-a-kind, Bonnie Belle’s will take your vision and deliver the cake of your dreams. With a new location right off I-79 at White Oaks in Bridgeport, it is even easier to stop and sample the goods. We guarantee, you’ll love this bakery as much as we do. 1520 Buckhannon Pike, Nutter Fort, 304.622.7471 20 Shaner Drive, White Oaks Bridgeport, 304.848.1100 bonniebellespastries.com wvliving.com 75

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FLANIGAN FAMILY MAPLE

Look. If you’re going to eat pancakes, do it right. Life is too short for that high fructose corn syrup stuff you ate as a kid. Experience the rich, complex flavors of Flanigan Family Maple’s 100 percent pure maple syrup—tapped, boiled, and bottled right in Wayne County. There’s a reason their syrup won first prize at the 2017 West Virginia State Fair last August. 730 Cedar Run Road, Kenova, 304.972.3129, @flaniganfamilymaple on Facebook BRUNCH

BLACK SHEEP BURRITO & BREWS TWO-TIME WINNER

SANDWICH

SECRET SANDWICH SOCIETY

After making his mark on the pizza business with Pies & Pints, co-founder Dave Bailey turned his attention to sandwiches. His Secret Sandwich Society, opened in 2010, is now one of Fayetteville’s favorites.

History buffs will appreciate the creative menu: Salads are named after former first ladies, burgers are named for Secret Service code names, and the sandwiches are named for former U.S. presidents.

The sandwich dedicated to President Herbert Hoover—who once promised a “chicken in every pot”—is a fried chicken cutlet, topped with honey butter, pickles, and greens. The “Kennedy” contains roasted pork loin, ham, pickles, Swiss cheese, roasted garlic mayo, and mustard. At any other restaurant, the dish would probably be called a Cuban sandwich. 103 Keller Avenue, Fayetteville, 304.574.4777 secretsandwichsociety.com @secretsandwichsocietywv on Facebook

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APPALACHIAN CUISINE

BLUEGRASS KITCHEN

With a name like Bluegrass Kitchen, one might expect a kitschy country diner with lots of old photos on the walls and a gravy-laden menu. But this eatery on Charleston’s East End avoids cliché while still embracing its Appalachian roots in a healthy, and creative way. The menu is built around fresh, local ingredients. Try the Pickle-Brined Fried Chicken, served with braised kale and whipped cauliflower, or the Trout & Grits, a panseared trout with organic grits and braised kale topped with bourbon mustard-dill sauce. Whatever your entrée, finish things off with a slice of the restaurant’s signature blueberry buttermilk pie, baked at sister restaurant Starlings Coffee & Provisions just down the street. 1600 Washington Street East, Charleston, 304.346.2871 bluegrasswv.com, @bluegrasskitchen on Facebook

Black Sheep is known for taking bold flavors from a variety of cuisines and combining them in new, interesting ways. The same holds true for its weekend brunch menu. You’ll find Mexican breakfast favorites like huevos rancheros and breakfast quesadillas, but how about some Vindaloo Curry Eggs Benedict, served with grilled chicken and cured ham?

The most popular item is the Chicken and Waffles, which features a Belgian waffle topped with Honey Nut Cheerio-breaded fried chicken, candied pecans, candied jalapenos, fried onion straws, and sage-infused maple syrup. Pair that with one of the restaurant’s signature mimosas, but don’t be surprised if you need an afternoon nap. 702 Quarrier Street, Charleston 304.343.2739, blacksheepwv.com @blacksheepwv on Facebook

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FINE DINING

CAFE CIMINO COUNTRY INN FIVE-TIME WINNER In 1999, Tim Urbanic and his wife, Melody, decided to try out some of his grandmother’s Italian recipes in a Sutton restaurant they named Cafe Cimino. The restaurant was so popular that in 2007 the Urbanics opened a 10-room hotel on the banks of the Elk River.

Even as the business expanded, the couple maintained their commitment to cuisine. Nearly two decades after it opened, Cafe Cimino remains a favorite destination for delectable white table cloth dinners. 616 Main Street, Sutton, 304.765.2913, cafeciminocountryinn.com @cafeciminocountryinn on Facebook CIDERY

HAWK KNOB APPALACHIAN HARD CIDER AND MEAD

Before beer was king, America was crazy about hard cider until Prohibition put an end to that love affair. But Josh Bennett and Will Lewis are trying to bring authentic, old-school cider to a tap near you. Hawk Knob presses, blends, and ferments locally grown apples—including many old-school heritage varieties you won’t find in the produce aisle—to create a product your great-great-grandfather would have loved.

Hawk Knob produces four varieties of cider—including one aged in bourbon barrels, for an added kick—as well as cyser, an apple-honey mead. Look for these products at your favorite wine shop and on tap at your favorite watering hole, or visit the cidery on your next trip through Lewisburg. 2245 Blue Sulphur Pike Lewisburg, 304.651.4413, hawkknob.com @hawkknob on Facebook

BBQ JOINT

DEM 2 BROTHERS & A GRILL

This barbecue joint literally started with two brothers and a grill, set up on a street corner on Charleston’s West Side. It wasn’t long before diners were lining up around the block to get a taste of owner Adrian Wright’s ribs, pulled pork, chicken, and brisket. Since those humble beginnings, Dem 2 Brothers has outgrown one brick-and-mortar location, moved into a second, opened a satellite restaurant in eastern Kanawha County, been featured on the Food Network, and launched two food trucks. 423 Virginia Street West Charleston, 304.400.4977, dem2brosgrill.com @dem2brothers on Facebook

DONUT

FRANK’S PASTRY SHOP

Many places like to claim they have the best donuts and then, well, there’s Frank’s Pastry Shop in Chester, which gives us a reason to travel all the way to the tippy top of West Virginia. This locally owned and operated full-service bakery that has been in existence since 1950 offers every sweet thing your heart desires, including pastries, cakes, pies, breads, and cookies. But its donuts are truly something special. Made daily from scratch and with only the finest ingredients, you can choose from maple glazed, peanut butter icing-filled, cream buns, chocolatedipped, and on and on. The pumpkin donuts are a highly anticipated favorite and the locals grab them up as soon as the come out of the oven.

430 West Carolina Avenue, Chester 304.387.0136, “Frank’s Pastry Shop” on Facebook

RUNNER-UP

ATOMIC GRILL

This Morgantown favorite serves up freshsmoked pork, beef, and chicken—and even Tofubeque—with Texas toast, fries, collard greens, and homemade “West Virginia sauce.” 595 Green Bag Road, Morgantown, 304.241.1170 atomicgrillmotown.com, @atomicgrill on Facebook wvliving.com 77

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BUTCHER SHOP

JOHNNIE’S FRESH MEAT MARKET

DRIVE-IN

MORRISON’S DRIVE INN

Morrison’s has been serving up homemade comfort food for seven decades. The drive-in was opened in 1947 by John Morrison. Current owner Jay Mayhorn’s grandfather began working at Morrison’s in 1948 and later became the sole owner.

Not much has changed since then.

The waitresses still deliver your food right to your window. And the menu board features lots of dishes you can’t find many other places—like fried chicken gizzards and livers.

If that’s not your style, try one of Morrison’s famed hot dogs with “everything”—chili, slaw, onion, and mustard—or a cheeseburger served on thick slices of grilled toast. And be sure to round out your meal with a side of onion rings and a milkshake.

126 Stollings Avenue, Logan 304.752.9872, “Morrison’s Drive Inn Official Site” on Facebook 78 wvl • winter 2017

Located inside Charleston’s Capitol Market, Johnnie’s Fresh Meat Market has been the capitol city’s favorite butcher shop since it opened in the 1970s. The friendly staff will hook you up with anything your canine teeth crave—beef, pork, chicken, turkey, rabbit, lamb, goat, and venison—much of it produced by local farmers. It’s worth a stop at Johnnie’s even if you’re not grocery shopping. The butcher shop is also a popular lunch destination, featuring fresh-grilled sandwiches and quesadillas made with Boar’s Head products. 800 Smith Street, Charleston 304.342.0224, johnniesmeats.com, @johnniesfreshmeatmarket on Facebook RUNNER-UP

FARMER’S DAUGHTER MARKET & BUTCHER

Find fresh-cut meat, fresh-ground sausages, and cured bacon as well as fresh produce, breads, gourmet coffee, wine, and craft beer at this little Capon Bridge shop. 2908 Northwestern Pike, Capon Bridge, 304.856.2550, @farmersdaughterwv on Facebook

WINERY

FORKS OF CHEAT WINERY

PEPPERONI ROLL

COUNTRY CLUB BAKERY

FIVE-TIME WINNER

TWO-TIME WINNER

Enjoy a taste of Tuscany right in the hills outside Morgantown. Founded in 1990, the award-winning Forks of Cheat Winery now boasts more than 20 wines for every palate, from dry reds and sweet whites to fruit and dessert wines. Choose your favorite bottle and settle in on the winery’s shaded deck or stroll the finely manicured grounds. Just don’t be surprised when time flies by.

2811 Stewartstown Road, Morgantown 304.598.2019, wvwines.com @forksofcheatwinery on Facebook

When Italian immigrant coal miners needed a handy meal to take down into the mines, their wives wrapped pepperoni in some bread dough and a West Virginia favorite was born.

When Italian immigrant Giuseppe Argiro wanted to leave the mines behind, he opened the Country Club Bakery in Fairmont and started cranking out pepperoni rolls for hungry patrons. Nine decades later, the bakery is still going and the recipe is unchanged. 1211 Country Club Road, Fairmont, 304.363.5690 @countryclubbakery on Facebook

PIZZA

PIES & PINTS FIVE-TIME WINNER When Kim Shingledecker and Dave Bailey opened their hip little Fayetteville pizza place in 2003, they had no way of knowing that, within a decade, it would become one of West Virginia’s most recognizable name brands. Pies & Pints now boasts 14 locations in five states, each of which features a big selection of craft brews and pizzas you won’t find anywhere else. Our favorite is the Cuban Pork pie, which features slow-roasted pulled pork, caramelized onions, fresh pineapple, jalapenos, feta, cilantro, and crème frâiche. Each of the restaurants has the same commitment to fresh ingredients and friendly service, but there’s still nothing like the vibe of the original restaurant in Fayetteville. 219 West Maple Avenue, Fayetteville, 304.574.2200, piesandpints.net, @piesandpints on Facebook

COFFEEHOUSE

TIPTOP

RUNNER-UP

THE BLACK DOG COFFEE COMPANY

Black Dog imports coffees from around the world, roasts the beans on-site, and serves them up in a cozy cafe. It doesn’t get much fresher than that. 8001 Charles Town Road Shenandoah Junction, 304.724.9040 blackdogcoffee.net, @blackdogcoffeefans on Facebook

BURGER

FAT PATTY’S TWO-TIME WINNER This Huntington-based chain made its name, literally, on big burgers. And nothing beats the original “Patty Burger”: two 4-ounce beef patties, cheese, bacon, lettuce, tomato, mayonnaise, and onion on a soft, buttery bun. It’s a classic American cheeseburger, beautifully executed.

Locations in Barboursville, Huntington, and Hurricane. fatpattysonline.com, @fatpattys on Facebook RUNNER-UP

SECRET SANDWICH SOCIETY

Easily the worst-kept secret in town, these burgers come dressed in gourmet toppings on buttery brioche buns, with fries and housemade ketchup. 103 Keller Avenue, Fayetteville 304.574.4777, secretsandwichsociety.com, @secretsandwichsocietywv on Facebook

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When you visit Harpers Ferry, it feels like you step back in time. Well, there’s a new bakery in town appropriately named A Step in Time Bake Shop. This quaint bakery is churning out some pretty amazing yeasty creations. Watch out north central West Virginia: Its Mama Jo’s Pepperoni Rolls, made from the owner’s mother’s recipe, is drawing legions of fans from around the state. The Cliffside Rum Roll also has its devoted fans. They are that good. Both can be shipped anywhere in the United States. Even if you are in the mood for a panini, grilled to perfection on freshly baked bread, buy a couple of pepperoni rolls to take with you. You’ll thank us. 1112 West Washington Street, Harpers Ferry 304.535.8046, hfbakeshop.com

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Formerly known as HypnoCoffee in Davis, TipTop is the place to go for espresso drinks, wine, cocktails made with small-batch spirits, smoothies, and specialty coffees from around the world. Stop by on Friday for Burger Night or Sunday morning for brunch—complete with a Bloody Mary bar.

216 East Avenue, Thomas, 304.463.4455 tiptopthomas.com, @tiptopthomas on Facebook

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HOT DOG

HILLBILLY HOT DOGS

DISTILLERY

HATFIELD & McCOY MOONSHINE

FIVE-TIME WINNER This isn’t your typical West Virginia hot dog joint. Consider the Coal Miner dog: a deep-fried weenie topped with chili sauce, mustard, and blackening seasoning. Or the Pineappleachian Dog, which features barbeque sauce, ham, cheese, and crushed pineapple. You can eat your grub in a rusty school bus or even get hitched at the newly opened Weddin’ Chapel. 6951 Ohio River Road, Lesage 304.762.2458, hillbillyhotdogs.com @hillbillyhotdogs on Facebook

RUNNERS-UP

CUSTARD STAND

With six locations across the state and a line of frozen hot dog chili, Custard Stand has your hot dog cravings covered. custardstand.com, @custardstand on Facebook

Made by descendants of the warring clans who grabbed headlines around the world in the 1870s, Hatfield & McCoy Moonshine produces small, handmade batches of corn whiskey using a recipe handed down from Devil Anse Hatfield himself. This Gilbert micro-distillery uses West Virginia-grown corn and copper kettle stills to make authentic 90 proof moonshine. Use it in your favorite mixed drink instead of vodka or tequila. Or drink it like Devil Anse probably would have—straight, no chaser. 297 James Avenue, Gilbert, 304.664.2821 drinkofthedevil.com, @hatfieldmccoymoonshine on Facebook

FARM-TO-TABLE

THE STATION

The philosophy behind this Fayetteville eatery is simple: Use locally produced meats and vegetables to produce simple, well-made dishes. It’s an environmentally friendly way to eat and keeps money flowing into the local economy. Plus, it’s delicious. 312 North Court Street Fayetteville, 304.900.5516, thestationwv.com, @thestationwv on Facebook

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BLUEGRASS KITCHEN

Here you’ll find locally raised beef in the taco salad, a Nagari Ricotta made with salt brine from JQ Dickinson Salt-Works, local eggs, West Virginia-smoked ham, locally cured bacon, and many more locally sourced ingredients. 1600 Washington Street East, Charleston, 304.346.2871 bluegrasswv.com, @bluegrasskitchen on Facebook

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When Big Timber Porter started showing up at taps across the state in 2015, it became a runaway favorite.

With its rich coffee aroma perfectly balanced by flavors of chocolate and tobacco, moderately strong at 6.5 percent alcohol by volume, it goes down easy. It also pairs as perfectly with red meat dishes as it does with desserts. This operation brews a good range of standards and seasonals and also distributes in cans.

1210 South Davis Avenue, Elkins, 304.637.5008, bigtimberbrewing.com, @bigtimberbrewing on Facebook

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MORRISON’S DRIVE INN

Nevermind styrofoam or aluminum foil, Morrison’s hot dogs come wrapped in cellophane tubes. Does that make a difference?

We think so. 126 Stollings Avenue, Logan 304.752.9872, “Morrison’s Drive Inn Official Site” on Facebook

Come for the high-end cocktails, stay for the menu of tapas plates, ceviche, and high-end entrées that feature farm fresh ingredients including locally raised eggs and vegetables and West Virginia beef and pork. 202 High Street, Morgantown, 304.574.4777, tin202.com @tin202wv on Facebook

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BREWERY

MOUNTAIN STATE BREWING CO. FIVE-TIME WINNER If you’re a West Virginia beer fan, you know about Mountain State Brewing Company. These folks were making craft beer before it was cool with signature brews like the Seneca IPA— which uses a blend of hops to provide a bold but not bitter flavor— and the Miner’s Daughter Oatmeal Stout, brewed with chocolate malted barley. Enjoy the beers at one of Mountain State’s three locations in Thomas, Morgantown, and Deep Creek Lake, Maryland. You can also find their beers in stores and restaurants all over West Virginia and into Maryland. 1 Nelson Boulevard Thomas, 304.463.4500, mountainstatebrewing.com @mountainstatebrewing on Facebook RUNNERS-UP

BIG TIMBER BREWING

This Elkins-based brewery opened in 2014 and has quickly earned a reputation as a heavy hitter in the craft brew scene.

Try the Porter (see our Editors’ Choice on previous page).

1210 South Davis Avenue, Elkins, 304.637.5008 bigtimberbrewing.com, @bigtimberbrewing on Facebook R TO

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At the end of a gravel road in Charles Town in a salvaged 1840s cabin, magic happens. Bloomery Plantation Distillery is growing lemons. Not only is it growing lemons, the distillery is making out-of-this-world limoncello that rivals the finest you’d find in Italy. In fact, it’s won more than 20 international awards. The distillery’s award-winning labels resemble vintage seed packets and make the jars jump off the shelf, but it’s what’s inside that keeps folks purchasing more and more. What started with a handful of flavors has expanded to more than 10 options.

Although the limoncello is its flagship and top seller, the distillery offers so much more. With raspberry, ginger, pumpkin, peach, and black walnuts as a few of its other spirits, there are many bottles to collect. 16357 Charles Town Road, Charles Town, 304.725.3036 bloomerysweetshine.com

BRIDGE BREW WORKS

It’s a small operation, but this Fayetteville brewery makes big-tasting beers. Try the Long Point Lager. 335 Nick Rahall Greenway, Fayetteville, 304.574.1998, bridgebrewworks.com @bridgebrewworks on Facebook ITALIAN RESTAURANT

MURIALE’S ITALIAN KITCHEN FIVE-TIME WINNER This Fairmont institution is exactly what you want in an Italian restaurant: It’s cozy, the staff is friendly and attentive, there’s a great wine list, and the red sauce is out of this world. Be sure to try the lasagna and meatballs, which are both served under ladles of Muriale’s signature sauce. But no matter what you pick, it’s going to be delicious. There’s a reason Best of West Virginia voters have picked Muriale’s as the state’s best Italian restaurant five years running.

1742 Fairmont Avenue, Fairmont, 304.363.3190, murialesrestaurant.com @muriales on Facebook RUNNERS-UP

OLIVERIO’S RISTORANTE

This family-run business with locations in Bridgeport and Morgantown offers top-notch Italian fare. But honestly, it’s worth the trip for one of their fresh-baked breadsticks. 507 East Main Street, Bridgeport, 304.842.7388; 52 Clay Street Morgantown, 304.296.2565, oliveriosristorante.com, @oliverioswv on Facebook

ROCCO’S RISTORANTE

If you can’t make it to the original location in Ceredo, take a trip to your grocer’s freezer, where you’ll find Rocco’s lasagna, spaghetti sauce, and its popular hot dog sauce. 252 Main Street, Ceredo, 304.453.3000 roccosristorante.com wvliving.com 81

RESORT

BOUTIQUE HOTEL

THE GREENBRIER

THE BLENNERHASSETT HOTEL

FIVE-TIME WINNER The Greenbrier is called “America’s Resort” for good reason. It offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy old-school opulence in its well-appointed rooms, luxurious lobbies, mineral spa, and James Bond-esque casino. It’s a shoppers’ paradise, with unique boutiques and artist galleries. And don’t pass up the wide variety of dining options. Enjoy fine dining in The Greenbrier’s dining room, Italian favorites at The Forum, dishes from the Pacific Rim at In-Fusion, decadent desserts at Draper’s, and delicious steaks and seafood at Jerry West’s Prime 44 steakhouse. But The Greenbrier also offers a plethora of ways to experience the great outdoors, including indoor and outdoor pools, tennis, archery, off-roading excursions, fishing trips, and falconry. There’s the Greenbrier Gun Club, where you’ll find trap and skeet fields as well as a 10-station sporting clays course. And of course, we hear it is a great place to play golf as well. 300 West Main Street, White Sulphur Springs, 844.837.2466 greenbrier.com 82 wvl • winter 2017

TWO-TIME WINNER

CAMPGROUND

MOUNTAIN LAKE CAMPGROUND

The Mountain Lake Campground overlooking Summersville Lake features 250 campsites— primitive sites as well as spots with hookups for motorhomes and campers. Guests can also choose from four two-bedroom cabins, five “cozy cabins” that sleep six each, or one of the three yurts on the property. The circular huts feature hardwood floors, two queen beds with twin bunks, televisions, bathrooms, and efficiency kitchens. Outside, each yurt has a grill, a fire pit, and a wooded view of the lake.

But there’s more to do than just sleep here: There’s a campers-only private beach plus playgrounds, a miniature golf course, basketball courts, a pool, and a jumping pillow. 1898 Summersville Airport Road, Summersville 304.872.6222, mountainlakecampground.com

The Blennerhassett Hotel opened in 1889 in downtown Parkersburg for the oil and gas industry’s elite. Today The Blennerhassett’s unique styling and welcoming atmosphere draw visitors for weddings, weekend getaways, business trips, 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, and the service and hospitality are legendary. 320 Market Street Parkersburg, 304.422.3131, theblennerhassett.com RUNNERS-UP

THE HISTORIC GENERAL LEWIS INN

Trailing close behind Parkersburg’s perennial favorite is Lewisburg’s historic and charming General Lewis Inn, which has been in continuous operation since 1929.

Under new ownership, it has 24 rooms and suites throughout the historic 1834 and 1928 building in downtown Lewisburg. 1236 Washington Street, East Lewisburg, 304.645.2600, generallewisinn.com

BAVARIAN INN

With four distinctly German chalets containing 73 refurbished guest rooms, The Bavarian Inn welcomes guests to an enchanted schwarzwald getaway in Shepherdstown. 164 Shepherd Grade Road, Shepherdstown, 304.876.2551 bavarianinnwv.com

UNIQUE PLACE TO SPEND THE NIGHT

THORNY MOUNTAIN FIRE TOWER

This 65-foot-tall fire tower is located in Seneca State Forest, West Virginia’s oldest and second-largest forest, and has commanding 360-degree views. Surrounded by nature in rugged Pocahontas County, Seneca offers peace and solitude for guests searching for a quiet getaway. wvstateparks.com/park/seneca-state-forest RUNNERS-UP

THE BARN LOFT

The Barn Loft is a romantic spot that combines camping with the conveniences of home.

With a bed surrounded by mosquito nets, this Airbnb sensation books guests from around the world. 200 High Street, Fayetteville, 304. 685.6433, @nrgbarnloft on Facebook

WILLBILLY’S SCHOOL BUS

No mystery here. It’s a school bus parked in the owner’s yard and converted into a living space with hardwood floors, a sofa, breakfast nook, wood-burning stove, and full bed, but no bathroom. @wvwillbillys on Facebook BED AND BREAKFAST

CAFE CIMINO COUNTRY INN FOUR-TIME WINNER Perched in a secluded location on the banks of the Elk River in Sutton, Cafe Cimino Country Inn is the perfect escape. Owners Tim and Melody Urbanic have lovingly created one of the most refined bed and breakfast destinations in the state. Melody takes care of the guests, treating them to lavish, unexpected personal touches, while Tim prepares award-winning cuisine for breakfast and dinner. Guests don’t leave without planning their return visits. 616 Main Street, Sutton 304.765.2913, cafeciminocountryinn.com RUNNER-UP

GUESTHOUSE LOST RIVER

Coming in as a close second, the Guesthouse Lost River in Hardy County has 18 amazing rooms, a billiards room, game tables, a breakfast room, an indoor Jacuzzi & steam room, a massage treatment room, and an out-of-this-world restaurant. 288 Settlers Valley Way, Lost River, 304.897.5707, guesthouselostriver.com wvliving.com 83

LOCAL FURNITURE STORE

PUGH FURNITURE

Celebrating is 100th anniversary in 2017, this Charleston business was founded by traveling salesman Harry R. Pugh. Today Pugh offers pieces for every room of your home, from the dining room and home office to the bedroom.

There’s a full selection of children’s furniture, and Pugh also has teamed up with Amish craftsman to offer a wide selection of handcrafted furniture. Need something specific?

These artisans also do custom pieces. 1320 Smith Street, Charleston, 304.344.2421 pughfurniture.net, @pughfurniture on Facebook

THE PURPLE MOON ANTIQUE/VINTAGE STORE

SOUTH CHARLESTON ANTIQUE MALL

Clear your schedule if you’re headed to this shop, located just behind the Mound in South Charleston. The South Charleston Antique Mall boasts 18,000 square feet of showroom space filled with wares from dozens of dealers.

You’ll find furniture, glassware, vintage jewelry, antique coins, paper collectibles like books and postcards, stoneware, antique tools, vinyl records, retro toys, primitives, and just about everything else you can imagine. Don’t be surprised if it takes more than one visit to see it all. 617 D Street, South Charleston 304.744.8975, southcharlestonantique.com “South Charleston Antique Mall” on Facebook 84 wvl • winter 2017

If mid-century modern is your thing, this shrine to 20th Century design will be your new favorite shop. Owners Chuck and Connie Hamsher only carry the finest mod furnishings in their Virginia Street shop, which also features an art gallery and glassware from Blenko and other mid-century makers. 906-08 Quarrier Street Charleston, 304.345.0123, thepurplemoon.com @thepurplemoon on Facebook

CHUCK’S FURNITURE

This Morgantown business has been providing quality furnishings for more than 40 years.

Come see its extensive line of Gat Creek furniture, made in West Virginia by West Virginia artisans using West Virginia hardwoods. 77 Lawless Road, Morgantown, 304.292.7621 chucksfurniture.com, @chucksfurniturewvu on Facebook

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ART EMPORIUM

In addition to its glass art, jewelry, metal art, pottery, and sculpture, this downtown Charleston shop has a 2,000-square-foot gallery featuring monthly exhibitions by artists from West Virginia and beyond. If you decide to take something home, talk to the folks at Art Emporium’s custom frame shop, who will ensure your art investment receives museum-quality treatment. 823 Quarrier Street, Charleston, 304.345.2787, artemporium.net @artemporiumwv on Facebook INDEPENDENT JEWELRY STORE

CALVIN BROYLES

Founded in 1947, Calvin Broyles is the state’s only third-generation, familyowned jewelry business. Now with locations in South Charleston, Teays Valley, and Beckley, the company has provided generations of customers with engagement rings, wedding bands, elegant watches, and fine jewelry. Check out its popular line of Heart in WV necklaces and bracelets featuring the metal and stone of your choice. It’s an indulgence you can feel good about—15 percent of proceeds from the jewelry line is donated to a college scholarship for a West Virginia student. 4708 MacCorkle Avenue Southwest, South Charleston, 304.768.8821; 4144 State Route 34, Hurricane, 304.757.3920; 1032 North Eisenhower Drive, Beckley, 304.252.7701; calvinbroyles.com @broylesjewelry on Facebook RUNNERS-UP

JACQUELINE’S FINE JEWELRY

Morgantown’s only locally owned fine jewelry and diamond dealer.

1070 Suncrest Towne Centre Drive, Morgantown, 304.599.6981 jacquelinesfinejewelry.com, @jacquelineswv on Facebook

C.F. REUSCHLEIN JEWELERS, INC.

From diamonds to Rolex watches, this Huntington jeweler is all about the finer things in life. 947 Third Avenue, Huntington 304.697.7710 cfrjewelers.com, @cfrjewelers on Facebook

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Whether you’re looking for a good read, a cup of coffee, or a little quiet time surrounded by local art, Taylor Books is the place to be. Shelves of books and magazines line the walls and paintings and pottery fill the gallery next door. There’s live music every Friday and Saturday night, and now a micro-theater in the basement. 226 Capitol Street, Charleston, 304.342.1461 taylorbooks.com, @taybooks on Facebook

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Wells Home Furnishings doesn’t do semiannual, bi-monthly, end-of-the-season blowout sales. Why? Because this family-owned business offers shoppers the best price every single day.

When they say “best price,” they mean it. Wells promises you won’t find a lower price in any brick-and-mortar or online store—their pieces are marked 10 to 20 percent lower than Amazon, Hayneedle, Overstock, Perigold, and Wayfair, guaranteed.

The family has been in the furniture business for nine decades and five generations, but John Wells Jr. and John Wells III started Wells Home Furnishings in 1994 to provide Charleston with a better way to buy furniture. The company opened a second showroom in Morgantown in the spring of 2015.

The stores offer quality furnishings for every room of your home, much of it manufactured in the United States by companies like Wesley Hall, CR Laine, Fairfield, and Huntington House. Wells also carries several lines of furniture handcrafted by Amish artisans.

Need custom window treatments or a custom piece of furniture? Wells has you covered there, too. The company also employs a full staff of interior designers and even offers a virtual reality design service that allows customers to see how a piece will work in a digitally recreated room before taking it home.

Wells’ commitment to its customers extends beyond the showroom walls, too. The company is involved in many community groups, including the Kanawha-Charleston Humane Association, the Mountain Mission, and the United Way. And as a member of the Sustainable Furnishings Council, the company strives to operate in a sustainable, environmentally friendly way. 101 Bowers Road, Charleston 304.343.3600; 1040 Fairmont Road Westover, 304.322.2129; wellshome. com, “Wells Home Furnishings” on Facebook wvliving.com 85

UNIQUE BOUTIQUE

THE VINTAGE LADY

Opened in 2004, this Harpers Ferry boutique is filled with unique gifts sure to please anyone on your list. There’s handmade jewelry by owner Cindi Dunn as well as prints, ornaments, and mugs featuring her photography. You’ll also find West Virginia-made pottery, handcarved coal sculptures, and glass products from Blenko Glass Company and Appalachia Glass as well as specialty food items, beer, wine, and hard cider. The shop was destroyed in 2015 by a devastating fire that damaged much of Harpers Ferry’s historic district, but Dunn reopened just six weeks later—bigger and better than ever. 180 High Street, Harpers Ferry 304.535.1313, thevintagelady.net, @vintageladyharpersferry on Facebook RUNNERS-UP

WOLF CREEK GALLERY

Find a unique selection of women’s clothing, shoes, jewelry, gifts, and more at this Lewisburg boutique. 967 Washington Street West, Lewisburg, 304.645.5270 wolfcreeklewisburg.com, @downtownlewisburgwv on Facebook

EGGPLANT

Make your gift even more special with personalization and monogramming services at this Charleston shop. 1011 Bridge Road A, Charleston, 304.346.3525, eggplantshop.com @eggplantshop on Facebook 86 wvl • winter 2017

LOCAL PLACE TO BUY MEN’S APPAREL

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Need a tux for a wedding? Or a new suit for the office? Daniel’s has been making men look sharp for more than 50 years. 2908 University Avenue Morgantown, 304.296.7202, danielsofmorgantown.com @danielsofmorgantown on Facebook

FLORIST RUNNERS-UP

CHARLESTON DEPARTMENT STORE

This longtime family favorite can meet all your casual workwear needs, and be sure to check out the huge selection of WVU gear. 1661 Washington Street West Charleston, 304.346.6793 @charlestondepartmentstore on Facebook

PLACE TO BUY WV-MADE PRODUCTS

TAMARACK

FIVE-TIME WINNER

TONY THE TAILOR

Whether you’re looking for luxury denim, fine leather shoes, or a bespoke suit, Tony has you covered.

Literally. 822 Virginia Street East, Charleston 304.833.9403, @tonythetailorwv on Facebook

Tamarack was the first of its kind, as the nation’s first state-run artisan center and gallery. With beautifully landscaped grounds and that iconic red roof, it still lures passing drivers off Interstate 64 to check it out for themselves.

The center sells more West Virginiamade products than anywhere else in the state with an inventory ranging from jewelry and pottery to musical instruments and homemade specialty food items. Visitors can also peek into the studios of Tamarack’s resident artisans to watch them work. One Tamarack Park, Beckley, 304.256.6843 tamarackwv.com, @tamarackwv on Facebook RUNNERS-UP

LOCAL PLACE TO BUY WOMEN’S APPRAREL

BIRDS OF A FEATHER BOUTIQUE

It began as a part-time hobby for friends Whitney Epling and Lindsey Ellis—they wanted a small business that could provide trendy but affordable clothing and started selling their wares through social media. When that took off, they began hosting in-home parties.

Then, in 2013, the business moved into a space in Huntington’s Heritage Station. Though the business continues to grow, Birds of a Feather’s mission remains the same: cool clothes for reasonable prices. 210 11th Street Shop #5, Huntington, 681.204.3731 boafboutique.com, @birds.boutique12 on Facebook

WV MARKETPLACE, CAPITOL MARKET

Here’s a one-stop shop for all your West Virginia needs: salsa, jam, jelly, pickles, books and magazines, postcards, cutting boards, pottery, hand-blown glass, and even dog treats. 800 Smith Street, Charleston 304.720.2244, @wvmarketplace on Facebook

KIN SHIP GOODS

Quirky t-shirts, sweaters, and gifts you won’t find anywhere else. 613 Tennessee Avenue Charleston, 304.346.0326, kinshipgoods.com @kinshipgoods on Facebook

GILLESPIE’S FLOWERS AND PRODUCTIONS

Gillespie’s Flowers and Productions has been creating floral arrangements since 1923 for clients all over the region. With a storefront at The Greenbrier and one on Main Street in White Sulphur Springs, it offers not only floral design but also event planning and design, graphic and sign design, and rentals—from tents and china to farm tables and fire pits. They are also experts at theatrical lighting and can craft exhibit trade shows and theme parties that will knock your socks off. They source products from local growers and even fly flowers in from around the world. With the fourth generation stepping into management positions, 20 full-time employees and 10 part-time employees, the business is equipped with a 10-truck fleet as well as 19,000 square feet in warehouse space and is situated to continue delivering the finest products and service for many centuries to come. 377 West Main Street West, White Sulphur Springs, 304.536.1881 gillespiesflowers.com

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CHARITY

YWCA CHARLESTON

It’s almost hard to believe one organization does so much good. YWCA Charleston provides permanent housing for elder abuse victims and homeless disabled women and operates a roundthe-clock shelter, crisis hotline, and emergency intervention service for domestic violence victims.

There’s a year-round child development center serving children of all ages, transitional housing for women and children overcoming domestic abuse and homelessness, and a 75-bed shelter for homeless single women, women with children, men with custody of their children, and intact families. And we haven’t even mentioned the fitness center in downtown Charleston and the organization’s efforts to fight racism. ywcacharleston.org @ywcacharleston on Facebook ADDICTION RECOVERY RESOURCE

LILY’S PLACE

Rhonda Edmunds and Sara Murray opened Lily’s Place after seeing the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Cabell-Huntington Hospital fill up with babies affected by their mothers’ opioid abuse. Each baby receives a private room in this 12-bed recovery center, where nurses closely monitor babies as they are weaned off the drugs in their systems and provide the specialized care these little patients require. Their work has attracted the attention of members of Congress, presidential candidate Hillary Clinton, and news outlets ranging from Reuters to NBC’s Today Show. 304.523,5459, lilysplace.org @lilysplacewv on Facebook 88 wvl • winter 2017

MUSEUM

CLAY CENTER FOR THE ARTS & SCIENCES OF WEST VIRGINIA TWO-TIME WINNER Buy a ticket to the Clay Center and you get two museums in one. The 9,000-square-foot Juliet Museum of Art boasts an impressive collection of modern art with regularly rotating exhibits from artists nationwide. Downstairs, there’s the newly renovated Avampato Discovery Museum. Kids will love “My Town,” a pint-sized, interactive community where they can put on shows in the theater, ring up groceries or go shopping at the supermarket, work on cars in a garage, tend to sick animals in the veterinary clinic, and more. 1 Clay Square Charleston, 304.561.3570, theclaycenter.org, @claycenter on Facebook

MUSIC VENUE

CLAY CENTER FOR THE ARTS & SCIENCES OF WEST VIRGINIA TWO-TIME WINNER

This family-friendly venue draws top-notch touring bands from around the country. 96 State Hwy 32, Thomas, 304.463.4040 purplefiddle.com, @thepurplefiddle on Facebook

CARNEGIE HALL

No, not that one. This Carnegie Hall hosts music and theater performances, an independent film series, fine art exhibits, and classes and workshops. 611 Church Street, Lewisburg 304.645.7917, carnegiehallwv.com, @carnegiewv on Facebook

FESTIVAL

BRIDGE DAY

Three years after West Virginia completed the New River Gorge Bridge—then the world’s longest steel singlespan arch bridge—the state invited people to jump off of it. Now, each October, BASE jumpers come from all over for Bridge Day. Daredevils also rappel from the bridge into the valley below. It all provides a great show for the thousands of eager spectators who crowd onto the bridge to watch these extreme athletes in action. officialbridgeday.com

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The epicenter of culture in Charleston, this multimillion-dollar facility opened its doors in 2002. The Clay Center’s main venue, the Maier Performance Hall, has played host to everyone from Aretha Franklin to James Taylor, John Legend to Charlie Daniels.

The hall is also home of the West Virginia Symphony Orchestra, now under the direction of maestro Lawrence Loh. Around back, you’ll find the black box-style Walker Theater, a more intimate space that frequently hosts local up-and-coming artists as part of the Clay Center’s Sound Check series. 1 Clay Square, Charleston 304.561.3570, theclaycenter.org, @claycenter on Facebook

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THE WEST VIRGINIA STATE MUSEUM

The West Virginia State Museum, housed in The Culture Center at the State Capitol Complex, allows visitors to follow a literal path through the ecology, history, and culture of the Mountain State. It begins in a prehistoric forest, with cases of rocks and fossils from the days before mankind roamed the earth, which leads into an exhibit about prehistoric people and Native Americans who lived in West Virginia.

Next come the days of early western settlement and frontier life. Exhibits include a telescope used by a young surveyor named George Washington and an authentic settler’s cabin that was dismantled and reassembled in the museum. Then it’s on to a series of rooms dealing with West Virginia’s Civil War history. You’ll learn about everything from John Brown’s infamous raid at Harpers Ferry to the political wheelings and dealings that led to West Virginia’s statehood.

From there, you’ll find exhibits on Wheeling, West Virginia’s first capital and economic center, life on the family farm, the changing roles of women in the state, and the railroad. Explore a library from 1880s Clarksburg and a soda shop originally located in Charleston’s Scott Brothers Drug Store.

Along the way there are “discovery” and “connections” rooms that allow visitors to dive deeper into subjects that pique their interest.

The museum is free and open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 1900 Kanawha Boulevard East, Charleston, 304.558.0220 wvculture.org, @wvsme on Facebook wvliving.com 89

ENVIRONMENTAL ORGANIZATION

WEST VIRGINIA NATURE CONSERVANCY TWO-TIME WINNER The Nature Conservancy seeks to preserve our most precious natural treasures by maintaining healthy ecosystems where humans and animal can thrive. In the Canaan Valley, the Conservancy’s strategy includes restoring stands of balsam fir, conserving remaining red spruce trees, and reducing the impact of non-native plant species. In the Cheat Mountain area, the Conservancy is replanting native hardwoods and removing non-native trees and invasive species.

But that’s just a small portion of the group’s work. The Conservancy has 17 preserves across the state and has protected nearly 120,000 acres of West Virginia wilderness. 304.637.0160 nature.org/westvirginia, @westvirginianatureconservancy on Facebook THEATER COMPANY

CHARLESTON LIGHT OPERA GUILD

MUSICIAN/BAND

DAVISSON BROTHERS

This hard-driving modern country band—fronted by brothers Donnie and Chris Davisson on lead vocals and lead guitar, respectively—got its start in Clarksburg but has now won fans all over the country with bluegrass-tinged tunes like “Foot Stompin’,” “Big City Hillbilly,” and “Jesse James.”

The group is now based in Nashville, but you can often catch them at Schmitt’s Saloon and Davisson Brothers Music Hall in Morgantown. davissonbrothersband.com @davissonbros on Facebook RUNNERS-UP

COMPANY STORES

Soul, folk, and rock ’n’ roll meet in the music of this Charleston-based “hill hop” band. thecompanystores.com, @thecompanystores on Facebook

ONA

Wilco fans will love this Huntington-area quintet and its earthy indie rock. thebandona.com @thebandona on Facebook 90 wvl • winter 2017

Charleston Light Opera Guild has been bringing a bit of Broadway to the Mountain State since 1949.

This volunteer theater company counts country artist Kathy Mattea and Hollywood actress Jennifer Garner among its alumni.

The company produces several musicals each year, so make sure to attend a show and keep an eye peeled for West Virginia’s next superstar. 304.342.9312 charlestonlightoperaguild.org @charlestonlightoperaguild on Facebook RUNNERS-UP

WEST VIRGINIA PUBLIC THEATRE

Now in partnership with West Virginia University’s College of Creative Arts, this Morgantown theater company provides Broadway-worthy productions and educational outreach experiences.

304.381.2382, wvpublictheatre.org @wvpublictheatre.org on Facebook

GREENBRIER VALLEY THEATRE

In addition to its theatrical productions, this Lewisburg theater company runs a popular after-school program and summer camp for budding thespians.

304.645.3838, gvtheatre.org @gvtheatre on Facebook

CHEF

HOPPY KERCHEVAL TWO-TIME WINNER Hoppy Kercheval grew up on a dairy farm in Jefferson County, where he made his first contact with the outside world through the family radio. Even then, he knew he wanted to spend his life on the airwaves. He went to work for West Virginia Radio Corporation in 1976 as a news anchor. Today, he might be the mostheard voice in West Virginia. Listeners around the state tune in each weekday from 10 a.m. to noon for Talkline with Hoppy Kercheval, where Kercheval and his guests take on the news of the day. wvmetronews.com @metronewstalkline on Facebook

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Originally hailing from the Cleveland, Ohio, area, Chef Wright attended the Pennsylvania Institute of Culinary Arts and worked at Chez Francois in Vermilion, Ohio, and Sun Valley Ski Resorts in Idaho— in addition to a stint as a private chef in Akron, Ohio— before coming to Bridge Road Bistro in 2011.

Wright joined the Bistro’s staff just a year before the restaurant’s founder, owner, and chef Robert Wong passed away unexpectedly. Now, as executive chef, Wright has carried on Wong’s legacy of classic cuisine mixed with global influences and made with top-quality ingredients. 915 Bridge Road Charleston, 304.720.3500, thebridgeroadbistro.com @bridgeroadbistro on Facebook

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WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHERS

THE OBERPORTS

The husband-and-wife team of Emily Porter and Bobby Oberlander—together known as The Oberports—offer compelling, natural photography. Their style delivers wedding photos that are a lush documentary of one of the most important days of your life instead of posed photos sessions lacking personality. Since they are a team, they are able to capture every detail—and even the details you may have missed—as well as help you stage the perfect portrait.

Couples often book their entire wedding around the availability of this dynamic duo and for good reason. Issue after issue—and it doesn’t matter who comprises the selection committee—they secure the coveted prize of WV Weddings’ cover photo. theoberports.com wvliving.com 91

AUTHOR

SCOTT McCLANAHAN

Scott McClanahan began drawing a following with his short stories—published in several volumes including 2012’s Crapalachia—and his 2013 novel Hill William. In 2016, he and New York Times best-selling Spanish artist Ricardo Cavolo produced the biographical graphic novel The Incantations of Daniel Johnston. But McClanahan’s reputation on the national literary scene has really started to take off with his latest release, The Sarah Book, published by New York Tyrant, an imprint run by fellow West Virginian Giancarlo DiTrapano. McClanahan’s writing is witty, weird, brutally honest, and saturated by his complicated relationship with West Virginia and its people. hollerpresents.com

ARTIST

IAN BODE

No one can deny Ian Bode has left his mark on Charleston. He grew up in Pinch, attended West Virginia University, then bounced around the East Coast for a while before returning home at age 30. Now, his bold lines and bright colors are on bike racks, interstate bridge piers, and art gallery walls all over town. Coincidentally, Charleston’s architecture and characters also frequently show up in his work. But the most distinctive feature of Bode’s artwork is his recurring “passenger” character, a faceless cartoon that becomes an avatar for the viewer. Find his work at The Art Emporium in downtown Charleston. artemporium.net/ian-bode 92 wvl • winter 2017

MAYOR

STEVE WILLIAMS TWO-TIME WINNER Steve Williams was shaped by Huntington. He moved to town as a teenager, attended Marshall University, and then served as the city’s director of economic development and city manager before representing the Huntington area in the state Legislature.

He then pursued a career in finance. But, seeing the city’s economy on the decline and its crime rate and drug problem skyrocketing, he ran for city council in 2008 and was elected mayor in 2012.

Williams has worked to attract new investment, rehab Huntington’s brownfields, and bring good housing to its most depressed neighborhoods. That work got a major shot in the arm when Huntington, under Williams’ leadership, won the $3 million grand prize in the inaugural America’s Best Communities competition.

In July, Williams announced his candidacy for the state’s 3rd Congressional District seat. It’s not that he wants to leave Huntington—he just wants his city to have a strong advocate on Capitol Hill.

ADVENTURE TOWN

HISTORIC TOWN

FAYETTEVILLE

HARPERS FERRY

THREE-TIME WINNER

THREE-TIME WINNER

This tiny county seat might be small in size and population, but it’s the biggest name in adventure tourism east of the Mississippi. For years, “Fayetteville” has been synonymous with whitewater rafting. The town and its surrounding communities are home to a smattering of trusted outfitters ready to take you down the New River or its wilder sister, the Gauley. Rock climbing is another of Fayetteville’s big draws. The rock faces lining the New River Gorge make the area a perfect playground for climbers. And there are plenty of top-notch hiking and mountain biking trails in the area for enthusiasts of all experience levels. Outfitters also offer ziplines, aerial obstacle courses, water parks, standup paddleboarding, and more, so everyone from the adrenaline junkie to the adventurous amateur can feel at home. visitfayettevillewv.com

Harpers Ferry is a favorite historic landmark and home to many historic events, such as the first successful American railroad, John Brown’s infamous raid on a federal armory, 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.

Tourists flock to this town to see sights like Jefferson Rock, the Appalachian Trail, the C&O Canal towpath, the John Brown Wax Museum, and, of course, Harpers Ferry National Historical Park. discoveritallwv.com

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THOMAS/DAVIS

These little towns are epicenters for adventure from biking and hiking to skiing and fishing. canaanvalley.org.

GILBERT

The Hatfield-McCoy Trails are transforming this southern coalfield town. thetownofgilbert.com

TOWN TO EXPERIENCE THE WINTER

THOMAS/DAVIS

These tiny touching towns are epicenters for adventure when cooler temperatures spread a blanket of snow over the mountains and valleys.

Ski at one of the area ski resorts, snowshoe at White Grass, sled at Blackwater Falls, or tube at Canaan Valley Resort. Grab a bite at Hellbender Burritos or Sirianni’s and enjoy a pint or two at Stumptown Ales or Mountain State Brewing.

There are also plenty of antique shops, eclectic retail, art galleries, and cafes. canaanvalley.org

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HIDDEN GEM TOWN

THOMAS

The quaintness of Thomas isn’t going to be a secret much longer.

With Blackwater Falls State Park, Canaan Valley Resort, Timberline, and Dolly Sods at its doorstep, visitors are flocking here for everything from festivals and fall foliage to outdoor recreation and entertainment. TipTop is the place for baked goods and coffee, The Purple Fiddle in Thomas provides a relaxing atmosphere to eat and be merry, and try a local brew from fellow Best of West Virginia winner Mountain State Brewing Company. newhistoricthomas.com RUNNERS-UP

HINTON

This New River gateway town is charming and historic. Pipestem State Park, Sandstone Falls, and Bluestone Lake are just a hop, skip, and jump away, and with darling bed and breakfast options like The Guesthouse Inn, there’s no excuse not to spend a few days. You’ll want to eat at The Market on Courthouse Square and catch a movie at the renovated Ritz Theater. exploresummerscounty.com

CAPON BRIDGE

Capon Bridge may be small, but it delivers a lot for a little town of just 400. The Famer’s Daughter Market & Butcher serves lunch on weekends and is the go-to place for locally sourced meat and produce, and nearby, The River House, created as a nonprofit, community-based arts and music program, houses a coffee shop and displays local art. cometohampshire.com

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TOWN FOR FOODIES

MORGANTOWN THREE-TIME WINNER Faster than you can say “Garlic Aioli and Sriracha Fries”—an appetizer at Table 9, one of Morgantown’s epicurean-attracting restaurants—the home of the WVU Mountaineers has been transformed into a mecca for diners with discerning taste. Chefs all over town are creating inventive dishes made with locally sourced, in-season ingredients. Foodies looking to find an exciting meal do not have to look very far in Morgantown. And, more often than not, they can find a West Virginia-brewed beer on tap or a craft cocktail to wash down their meal. tourmorgantown.com TOWN FOR THE ARTS

CHARLESTON THREE-TIME WINNER Charleston hosts several art galleries, and ArtWalk turns downtown Charleston into a big, walkable art gallery every third Thursday from March through December. But the crown jewel of arts in Charleston is FestivALL, the annual celebration where the city “becomes a work of art.” For two weeks each June, venues around town host all kinds of art, drama, music, and dance shows. On Sunday nights, head over to the Culture Center for a taping of West Virginia Public Broadcasting’s nationally syndicated Mountain Stage radio show, which features some of the biggest names in Americana music. Music isn’t the only game in town, however. The Charleston Ballet offers regular performances of classic ballets, while theater groups like the Charleston Light Opera Guild and the Kanawha Players stage a variety of musicals and dramas throughout the year. charlestonwv.com

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OFF THE BEATEN PATH

WARDENSVILLE TOWN TO EXPERIENCE THE FALL

CASS

The best way to see this first-time winner for best town to experience the fall is by rail. The Cass Scenic Railroad will take you in an open-air car behind a preserved Shay steam-driven locomotive from the charming town lined with pristine white clapboard company houses to an authentic logging camp or to Bald Knob, the third-highest point in West Virginia. wvstateparks.com/park/cass-scenic-railroadstate-park

TOWN TRANSFORMATION

HUNTINGTON TWO-TIME WINNER Huntington has been dealt some difficulties of late, but it is meeting the challenges head-on. Since it was named America’s Best Community in April 2017, its blighted areas are being transformed thanks to groups like Coalfield Development Corporation and visionary mayor Steve Williams.

Coalfield has converted the former Corbin factory into “West Edge Factory” with a solar panel installation business and training center, a woodworking shop, agribusiness operations, and more. And this is just the beginning. cityofhuntington.com RUNNERS-UP

THOMAS

Drive down Front Street in Thomas and you’ll see art galleries, shops, markets, restaurants, and music venues in what were once empty storefronts. newhistoricthomas.com

WHEELING

The birthplace of West Virginia is experiencing a rebirth with new loft living and entertainment options transforming the historic downtown. wheelingcvb.com

Wardensville is probably not what you’d expect, assuming you expected anything. This town of less than 300 people, 100 miles from Washington, D.C., is arguably not on most West Virginians’ radar—but it should be. Anyone traveling from D.C. or Baltimore to, say, Lost River, has to drive the two-lane through Wardensville. There’s currently no other route. In the past five years Wardensville’s Main Street has begun to change with shopping, dining, and even great art. The beautiful Lost River Brewing Company, serving fresh seafood and other delectable dinners and handcrafted brews, opened in 2011. A darling coffee shop, art gallery, and antique shop-combo, Lost River Trading Post, opened in 2013. An art gallery, the Mansion on Main, opened in early 2015, as did an Eastern West Virginia Community & Technical College venture called New Biz Launchpad. A couple of years ago lights went up on the rooflines of many Main Street businesses to attract even more attention downtown. There’s a lot of energy and excitement—a testament to dynamic leadership and community involvement. wardensville.net

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