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Best of July in WV

Summer is just now heating up! Here is a sampling of some of the great events taking place in the

Offbeat ideas for solo travelers in the mountains

Looking for solo travel ideas that aren’t run-of-the-mill? Just change your approach! Traveling by yourself can be liberating. And it

Cirque Italia

GET READY TO DIVE INTO THE MAGICAL WORLD OF CIRQUE ITALIA: THE FIRST EVER ITALIAN WATER CIRCUS...OUR BRAND NEW SHOW IS WAITING FOR YOU IN MARTINSBURG, WV! Aerialists and acrobats and Jetskis? – oh my! Come experience the magical world of Cirque Italia – a show like no other. We are proud to be the first traveling WATER circus in the US! Our extraordinary stage holds 35,000 gallons of water and features a dynamic lid which lifts 35 feet into the air, allowing water to fall like rain from above as fountains dazzle below! This incredible show takes place under our majestic white and blue big top tent which came all the way from Italy……..Inside we have such a theatrical and intimate setup, you just might forget you are under a circus tent! The show owner and founder, Manuel Rebecchi, has a deep seeded history in the circus industry. His late aunt, Moira Orfei, ran one of the largest circus shows in Europe. When Manuel came to the states several years ago, he decided that Americans needed to experience a European style show. He wanted to create something special and memorable. He was actually inspired to create the water stage while drinking a bottle of water one day!! Mr. Rebecchi knew he would need someone with great talent and vision to make his idea work. That is why he brought in Chante’ DeMoustes, COO and Producer, to help make his dreams a reality. The result? Something never before seen in the US – a cirque variety show featuring a 35,000 gallon water tank stage and performers from around the world! This incredible show is completely ANIMAL-FREE. So what can you expect to see at this remarkably unique show? How about a CONTORTIONIST who is able to bend her body in ways you would never imagine…. How high can he go? You’ll be asking yourself as our Italian singer stacks chair upon chair and then balances on top of them on his hands…...Our crazy clown, Alex, PLUNGES off the diving board during his acrobatic trampoline excursion! Want to get splashed? Who knows what can happen during our astounding JETSKI act……Breathtaking Aerial Divas will fly high in the sky like beautifully colored birds of paradise……. Our Laserman will be causing all kinds of explosions with his laser guns……maybe to scare away the large DINOSAUR that has invaded the show!! All this, plus thrilling highwire feats, twin juggling maniacs, elegant chiffons, and more!! Don’t forget you also have the once in a lifetime opportunity to take a picture with a MERMAID. For more information, check out the Cirque Italia website: www.cirqueitalia.com. Find us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Interact with us! Keep up to date with the latest news! Or shoot us an email at office.cirqueitalia@gmail.com. We will be happy to answer all of your questions. You can purchase tickets through our website (cirqueitalia.com/tickets) or by phone: 941-704-8572. We also respond to text message. Non vediamo l'ora di vedervi allo spettacolo! Let Your Imagination Wander...and come DIVE into the Magical world of CIRQUE ITALIA. When: July 14-17 Where: Foxcroft Towne Center at Martinsburg (formerly Martinsburg Mall) At: 800 Foxcroft Ave, Martinsburg, WV 25401 Near: Behind Walmart - Off I-81 exit 12 or 13 Under the grand, swirling White and Blue tent! • July 14 THURS: 7:30pm • July 15 FRI: 7:30pm • July 16 SAT: 1:30pm, 4:30pm & 7:30pm • July 17 SUN: 1:30pm, 4:30pm & 7:30pm Box office hours: The box office opens on-site on Tuesday, the week of the show. Non-show days: 10am – 6pm On show days open 10am – 9pm

Independence Day (4th of July) Celebration at Cacapon Resort State Park

Creative fun for kids and for the adults, a cool place to relax and celebrate the 4th of July. Starting at 10am at Cacapon State Park (near the picnic area and Nature Center) will be the 12 Habits For Wonderful People booth which will have poster “blanks” and lots of fun and creative materials from glitter to stickers to stampers for kids and adults alike to explore their artistic side. Participants will be asked to make Wonderful People posters for one of the 12 months of their choice with uplifting messages for each month. The hand-made posters will be distributed to our Ambassadors and displayed throughout our community. Listen to Patriotic Music as the Morgan Community Concert Band as they perform at the Gazebo. The program is open to the public at no charge. Contact: Renee Fincham, 304-258-1022 X 5209

Tall tales: John Henry & other folk legends

West Virginia’s hills have spawned dozens of colorful characters who went on to become immortalized in books, songs, movies and

1st Annual Paw Paw Festival

This is a great way way to bring communities together and instill a sense of community pride and knowledge of our history to others. Ellie's is offering a special just for kids that day! Any Kiddie Cone for only $1.50. So come on out and enjoy an evening for the whole family! We are looking for more vendors that would like to participate during the festival. This can include merchandise, crafts, antiques, products, lemonade, etc. There is NO fee to set up.

Fridays @ Five

Cozy up with a blankets and chairs to Fridays @ Five, a fun, free summer concert series featuring amazing local and regional talent every Friday in the heart of Martinsburg. The concerts take place in the Town Square in downtown Martinsburg, providing easy access to the shops and restaurants, lasting from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Arrive for the concert an hour early to browse through the Martinsburg Farmers Market for the area's best produce, meats, jams and jellies, breads, baked goods and more.

Berkeley Springs — Discover Your Hometown

Re-Discover Berkeley Springs WV! Spend the day in one of the coolest downtown settings in the region.. Shops, spas and restaurants will be open and many will offering "Discover" specials..Live remotes from MAX 92.9 FM .Mercer Street Music starts at 1pm .. 7 different musicians and bands.. Take a dip in the springs and enjoy the Town of Bath!! and an after party for those that never want it to end...

Share the simplest joys of mountain summer

Before video games, Wifi and hi-def TV, there were tents on the lawn, fireflies and stone skippin’. This season, take

Gal getaways: Treat yourself

Whether it’s a celebration or a chance to reconnect with college or childhood friends, a gal getaway in West Virginia

Cacapon State Park – June 4 – NATIONAL TRAILS DAY

Hike Across West Virginia celebrates National Trails Day by hiking an 11 mile stretch across the Ridge of Cacapon Mountain. Fairly level hiking and a wonderful view! Meet at the Nature Center at 9 AM to take advantage of this unique experience. Shuttle is provided. Registration required. What a great way to earn 11 miles credit for the Chief's Challenge 2016, register today! Down load your National Trails Day hiking miles to get your patch and certificate: www.wvstateparks.com/NTDLogCard.pdf Contact: Renee Fincham, 304-258-1022 X 5209

Best of June in WV

Here is just a sampling of some of the fun and exciting events this month in the Mountain State: 1.

Come To Our Monthly Meetup — Enjoy, Participate & Create Together.

12 Habits for Wonderful People is a year-round community-wide endeavor of adults to support our children and youth by sharing 12 monthly qualities of living with them that are simple, colorful and make life wonderful. Our mission: By coordinating visual displays of the monthly qualities in our schools, stores, places of worship and family agencies, and speaking and internet-posting them more often as reminders, we are adults, creating a caring community around our children, where they feel more integrated rather than alienated from us all. Our "WP" Ambassador TEAMS include Ambassador Recruitment, Community Relations, Electronic Media, Planning Creative Special Events, Planning and Creating Monthly Materials, Materials Distribution Team, School Team, Health and Civic Agencies, Government & Law, Places of Worship, Merchants and Businesses, Involving Homes & the Community, Targeting Drug & Alcohol Abuse, Fundraising, Administrative and Technical & Bookkeeping. As you can see there is lots of work to be done but since it becomes a year-after year system of projects it becomes easier and easier to do just like doing holidays. This project was brought to West Virginia from Pennsylvania where over 15 years in 150 schools and communities, university based research showed dramatic reductions in poor choices by youth and families - and all while having colorful fun celebrating the monthly habits all together

Charles Town’s WV Fest

WV Fest is an event to celebrate WV Arts and Heritage. Music, food vendors, farmers market, history tours and lots of kids activities including a stick horse race down main street Charles Town.

Battle Of The Bands in Morgan County, WV — Featuring Rock Bottom!

The Morgan County Improvement Organization and Hillbilly Heaven presents our first Battle of the Bands event featuring Rock Bottom! We are calling all amateur bands to be a part of the battle! Submission deadline for bands is June 18th. Send us your video. A majority portion of the proceeds for this event goes to the Nolan Heironimus recovery fund, a child who was involved in a traffic accident while Christmas caroling in our area.

7 best free family activities in WV

Adventure abounds in the hills of West Virginia— and lots of it is free! In West Virginia, families can enjoy

5 best places to try the fastest-growing watersport

Stand-up paddleboarding– known as SUP– is one of the easiest watersports (or outdoor activities of any kind, for that matter)

WV Day Celebration at I-81 South Welcome Center

Entertainment and Exhibitors:  Tim Eggleston ( WVTIM with geo-caching)  Matthew Clopper (Civil War Enthusiast)  River Riders,  Keara Heck (Queen Pomona; Apple Harvest Queen)  Tara Price with Black Draft Distillery  Dillon Farm Museum. Refreshments include: Pepperoni Rolls, Water, Fruit, Cookies and Candy Refreshments provided by: Sheetz, Berkeley Springs Water, Orr’s Farm Market, Walmart

West Virginia Day Celebration at I-81 North Welcome Center

Entertainment/Exhibits:  Belle Boyd interpreter-Trisha Strader, 10am-2pm  Spinning Wheel Demonstration-Carol Slovikosky, 10am-2pm  Old Friends Quartet Entertainers-12-2pm  Bloomery Plantation makers of Sweetshine, 10am-2pm  Hampton Inn and Comfort Inn  Jefferson County Convention and Visitors Bureau Giveaways: post cards, book marks, cook books, activity books, pencils, and other miscellaneous items Refreshments: Party wraps, cookies, hard candies, fresh fruits, and water Partners: Orr’s Farm Market-Homegrown fruits and vegetables

Black book for your dates. Red book for your meals

Never— really, never— taste the same thing twice at Redbook Restaurant at Hillbrook Inn and Spa. Every dish— elegant multi-course

Come To Cacapon May 21 for “Kids To Parks Day” & Wonderful People Walk

On Saturday, May 21, between 9:30 am and noon, all kids of all ages are invited to Cacapon Resort State Park for Kids to Parks Day. Initiated 6 years ago by the National Park Trust, this event is celebrated in parks all across the nation and is dedicated to encouraging youth to get outdoors. "We'll meet at the Nature Center in the park at 9:30 to start the day with a Wonderful People Walk to discover nature and receive a special treat while exercising."

Best multi-day camp-and-trek trail trips

Trace some of the nation’s most atmospheric and historic camp-and-trek trails. In West Virginia, picturesque footpaths take you past historic

7 ziplines that’ll make you want to fly in WV

Our state packs more thrills into its hills than any place else! Explore the excitement from the skies. Since there

Welcome to "GardenFest Weekend" in Shepherdstown. The centerpiece of of both days will be the town's 17th annual Back Alley Garden Tour and Tea, sponsored by the Shepherdstown Community Club. It will include a self-guided walking tour of private gardens rarely open to the public and an elegant afternoon tea. Saturday will also feature a new event: A Native Plant Sale sponsored by the Potomac Valley Audubon Society. The town will be hosting other garden-related activities both days, including a Farmers' Market on Sunday morning. Both days will also include displays by local artists, access to local historic sites, live music, children's events, carriage rides, and special spring menus at many local restaurants. The Tour and Tea and all the other weekend activities will be held rain or shine. Garden Tour hours will be 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday and 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Sunday. The Teas will be offered from 12 noon to 4:00 p.m. each day. Admission to both the Tour and Tea will be $20 per person through May 18, and $25 after that. Tour and Tea tickets and more information are available online now at www.backalleygarden.org. Tour and Tea tickets and more information are available online now at www.backalleygarden.org. The Audubon Society's Native Plant Sale will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Saturday. It will emphasize plants that benefit endangered pollinators like honeybees and butterflies, and it will include informational displays as well as vendors. At least four different native plant nurseries will be represented. All of the weekend's other activities will be free and will follow the same hours as the Garden Tour. For more details about these other activities and information about parking locations during the weekend, go to the Shepherdstown Visitor's Center web site at www.shepherdstown.info or contact the Center at svc@shepherdstown.info 304-876-2786.

Best of May in WV

It’s finally May, and the Mountain State is celebrating in style with a whole bunch of outdoor events. The sun

North Mountain Arts Festival

This is the 12th year of North Mountain Art Festival. Previously in Hedgesville, WV Now in our 4th year at Orrs Farm Market. This is a juried fine Arts & Artisans show with Live Music, Fine Art, Handmade Crafts, Food and everything that Orr’s Farm Market has to offer. Festival hours are Saturday 9am-5pm and Sunday 10am to 4pm. come out and experience fun for the entire family. This is a Free event for the public with live music and of some of the best artists in the area. See you there!

Martinsburg Heritage Festival

Discover and celebrate the rich history of Martinsburg, WV during the annual Martinsburg Heritage Festival, with daily activities from May 13-15. You'll tour the homes of historic figures, learn about the city's Irish heritage, find the ghosts that call the city home and more. For more information about the festival, visit www.orgsites.com/wv/adam-stephen.

4th Annual Shepherdstown Dog Fest

Shepherdstown WV will hold its fourth annual "Dog Fest" the weekend of May 14-15. The Dog Fest will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. both days. It will include a wide variety of activities for dogs, their owners, dog lovers, and the general public. Most of the activities will be located on King Street in front of the Town Hall, in the heart of the downtown. All the activities will be free and everyone will be welcome. The main event Saturday will be a parade of rescue dogs that will showcase adoptable dogs from a dozen different breed-specific rescue organizations and local all-breed shelters. As each dog goes on parade, a representative of the sponsoring organization will provide commentary on the animal. The goal is not only to help find homes for these dogs but also to educate the public about the needs of different breeds and adoption and fostering options.  Other highlights of Saturday's schedule will include a community dog show open to dogs owned by both visitors and residents. Sunday will feature three sheepdog demonstrations with Border Collies. This will be a good opportunity to learn how these highly intelligent dogs herd large numbers of sheep with instinct and training. Both days will include blessings of the dogs; exhibits and demonstrations by trainers, rescue organizations, and others; and children's activities. There will also be a silent auction of goods and gift certificates donated by Shepherdstown businesses. Throughout the weekend, many restaurants and stores and will let dog owners bring their dogs inside. Many will also be offering special dog-themed food, drinks, and items for sale. The Dog fest is sponsored by the Shepherdstown Visitors Center; watch the Center's website at www.shepherdstown.info for schedule details. For more information, contact Ms. Davis at 304-876-2786 or SVC@shepherdstown.info.

Shepherdstown Garden Fest Weekend

The historic town of Shepherdstown, WV, will hold a "GardenFest Weekend" May 21 and 22. The centerpiece of of both days will be the town's 17th annual Back Alley Garden Tour and Tea, which will include a self-guided walking tour of private gardens rarely open to the public and an elegant afternoon tea. Incorporated in 1762, Shepherdstown has many interesting 18th- and early 19th-century homes. Many of the gardens on the Garden Tour will be located on the grounds of those homes. The town will be hosting other garden-related activities both days, including a Native Plant Sale on Saturday and a Farmers' Market on Sunday. Both days will also include displays by local artists, access to local historic sites, live music, children's events, carriage rides, and special spring menus at many local restaurants. The Tour and Tea and all the other weekend activities will be held rain or shine. Garden Tour hours will be 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday and 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Sunday. The Teas will be offered from 12 noon to 4:00 p.m. each day. Admission to both the Tour and Tea will be $20 per person through May 18, and $25 after that. Tour and Tea tickets and more information are available online now at www.backalleygarden.org. The Native Plant Sale will be held Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sponsored by the Potomac Valley Audubon Society, it will emphasize plants that benefit endangered pollinators like honeybees and butterflies, and it will include informational displays as well as vendors. Participating native plant vendors will include Hill House Farm and Nursery, from Castletown, VA; Enchanter's Garden, from Hinton, WV; Bluebell Ridge Nursery, from Sharpsburg, MD; and Star Eagle Gardens, from Berkeley Springs. There will also be garden art for sale and a local apiary will be selling honey and offering tastings of different honeys. Master Gardeners, Master Naturalists, bee keepers and other experts will be on hand to answer questions about pollinators and the selection and cultivation of plants that help sustain them. The Monarch Alliance of Washington County, MD, will have literature available, including sample plans for butterfly gardens. All of the weekend's other activities will be free and will follow the same hours as the Garden Tour. For more details about these other activities and information about parking locations during the weekend, go to the Shepherdstown Visitor's Center web site at www.shepherdstown.info or contact the Center at svc@shepherdstown.info 304-876-2786.

Brewing up in 2016: 10 new breweries & events to try

West Virginia’s craft beer business is booming! Here are 7 new breweries and 3 new events to watch for this

6 surreal abandoned places you have to see to believe

Have you ever spied a crumbling old structure and wondered at the history behind it? These abandoned places in West

Get racin’ over the rolling hills

Running’s not just for pavement anymore. Hit the trails and experience the beauty of West Virginia woods and farmland on

How would you have fared on the wild frontier?

Every so often, whether you’re camping out in the woods, suddenly without cell reception, or even if there’s a cable

This ol’ barn: I do’s with mountain magic

Looking for a truly magical venue for your big day? One where you can see the stars and feel the

7 jaw-dropping horseback riding adventures in WV

Trek the mountains the same way the settlers did— by horseback. Many mountain trails are only used for horseback rides,

Black Draft Distillery

7 mountain bands you need to hear

From Mountain Stage to the Appalachian String Band Music Festival, West Virginia’s mountain music is a perfect combination of old

Wake up to a wild brunch this Sunday

West Virginia is known for our home cooking and hospitality, and come Sunday, it’s time for a big, hearty, social.

Your inner foodie will flip for these 9 dine-around events

Attention foodies: the Mountain State is full of flavor, and ready for you to take a bite! These festivals, cook-offs

Adam Keeling w/Live music and Guest bartender Sarah Murphy (Bloomer Distillery) kick off St. Patrick's Day at the Bath Water Brewpub. Great music and fun new beer cocktails.

House and Garden Tours

Be sure to visit "Homes on Tour" for a look at the beautiful historic homes open for viewing during the 62nd Annual House and Garden Tour. Docents from garden clubs throughout the region guide guests through these homes and gardens, describing the architecture, furnishings and plantings, as well as genealogical information or historical events that may have taken place on the grounds or within the walls. Club members also volunteer their time and talents by providing beautiful flower arrangements to decorate the homes. Tours are scheduled at the end of April in order to capture spring's beauty at its peak. Complete Tour Advanced: $20.00 Adults, $10.00 Children (12 & under) Day of Tour will be $25.00 Adults, $10.00 Children (12 & under) Day of Tour Single will be $10.00 Adults, $8.00 Children (12 & under)

5 shows that come back year after year

Live theater in the Mountain State ranges from classic tales to contemporary dramas. Several are so popular, they return year

Harpers Ferry Outdoor Festival

Admission to the festival is only $30 for both nights and includes camping (or $15 on Friday and $20 on Saturday). The Harpers Ferry Outdoor Festival is a yearly event held to raise money for river and environmental conservation and to promote environmental awareness. The Festival is used to bring together participants, activists, and enthusiasts of the many outdoor activities in our area including kayakers & canoeist, rafters, hikers, bikers, campers, anglers, climbers, bird watchers and anyone else who shares our love and concern for our natural environment. We are here to promote the healthy and peaceful enjoyment of everything which our unique area has to offer. We raise money and awareness by hosting a variety of events including the Festival, the Tim Gavin Down River Race, the Outdoor Film Festival and Swap Meet, and one or more river cleanups. Money raised through the events is donated to river and environmental conservation charities to support their ongoing conservation work and research. We do not raise money to promote any businesses. Money raised through the event is used to help The Friends of the Cheat, The Friends of the Blackwater, The Blue Ridge Watershed Coalition, and The West Virginia Rivers Coalition. https://vimeo.com/157981122

Chocolate Fest & Book Faire

From cupcakes to truffles, local and regional authors and chocolate-themed activities, visitors won't find a more decadent or enjoyable festival than the Chocolate Festival and Book Faire April 23, hosted by Main Street Martinsburg. Local businesses throughout downtown host authors for book signings and discussions, as well as display chocolate-themed specials. Guests can also tour a local chocolate shop, sample cupcakes from a cupcake competition and watch "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory" throughout this day-long adventure.

Cacapon Resort State Park – (3/5) – MEET CACAPON

Meet a reservoir! Join the park Naturalist for an afternoon jaunt to ascend the Piney Ridge Trail to the reservoir. Meet Naturalist Renee Fincham at the Lodge at 2:00 p.m. Bring yourself, bring a friend, or bring the family and join park staff for fun, food, and door prizes! What a great way to kick off the (early) spring recreation season! We'll talk about the park, look for any signs of spring, and just enjoy the scenery. Following the hike, hot tea, coffee, cocoa, cookies, and door prizes will be available at the lodge. If you don't take the hike, you should still plan on visiting Cacapon and enjoying refreshments at the lodge. Refreshments from 2:00 - 4:00 p.m.

9 grandest old arts centers in West Virginia

So many theaters in the Mountain State still shine with their original 20th century grandeur. Take in a performance at

Discover your inner artist at these 7 WV art studios

Take home a piece of your own handiwork next time you go gallery hopping. Arts centers around the Mountain State

Shake up your drink game with these 4 fine mountain cocktails

Chilly temperatures are no match for some of West Virginia’s finely crafted cocktails and local spirits. Sit back, relax and

Best WV wines & spirits for every palate

Let your personal palate lead you to the best WV wines & spirits for your tastes. Most wineries make a

7 country trends for your mountain “I do’s”

Trace the roots of the rustic country wedding trend back to its inspiration: the Mountain State. Of course couples are

6 times West Virginia was vital to the Civil Rights Movement

West Virginia has been the centerpiece of several key events in African-American heritage– dating all the way back to before

Whitewater 101: paddling WV’s world-class rapids

One of the best ways to enjoy West Virginia’s stunning outdoor scenery is with the plain, pure fun of whitewater

Appalachian Showcase Concert

Shepherd University will be hosting the 39th annual Appalachian Studies Association conference from March 18-20. Nearby 1,000 scholars, educators, students, activists, and learners will come together in Shepherdstown to celebrate our region. As part of the conference, we will present a special showcase concert for the community and visitors featuring John Lilly and Blue Yonder, Appalachian dance, storytelling and much more.

Readings by the Affrilachian Poets

As a part of the Appalachian Studies Association Conference at Shepherd University, all are welcome to join in many of their FREE events. In Celebration of Twenty-Five Years, Frank X Walker and the Affrilachian Poets will be participating in “Affrilachian Voices: A Reading by Affrilachian Poets.” Poets participating in the event alongside Walker include Kelly Norman Ellis, Ricardo Nazario y Colon, Bianca Spriggs, and others.

Frank X. Walker Address

Frank X Walker will deliver the Appalachian Studies Association Conference keynote address on Friday, March 18 in the Shepherd University Frank Center Theater. Walker, a native Kentuckian and graduate of the University of Kentucky, holds an MFA in writing from Spalding University and was named Poet Laureate of Kentucky in 2013—the youngest and first African American to hold the position. Walker co-founded Message Theater and the Affrilachian Poets and was named one of "the most creative teachers in the South" by the Oxford American: The Southern Magazine of Good Writing. His creation of the word “Affrilachia” is included in the Oxford American Dictionary. Walker has lectured, conducted workshops, and read poetry at over 400 national conferences and universities across the globe. Walker’s keynote address, entitled “Escape from Negro Mountain: Writing History, Righting Wrongs,” will utilize stories and literature to shed light on the diversity of Appalachia. Frank X Walker will participate in a number of conference events in addition to the keynote.

Two Rivers Chamber Orchestra–Pushing the Season

The Two Rivers Chamber Orchestra will continue its current season with a concert in Shepherdstown on March 12. The concert, which is sponsored by Friends of Music, will feature two iconic works: Aaron Copeland's "Appalachian Spring Suite" and Antonio Vivaldi's "Four Seasons." It will be held at Trinity Episcopal Church at 7:30 p.m. Music Director Jed Gaylin will conduct. The violin soloist for Four Seasons will be Quing Li, the Baltimore Symphony's Principal Second Violin and a frequent soloist with that orchestra. Born in China, she studied at the Central Conservatory of Music in Beijing and at the Peabody Conservatory in Baltimore. She currently performs on a Neopolitan instrument made by Nicolo Gagliano in 1736.

The Founder of Storer College

Dr. Dawne Raines Burke, will speak on "John Storer: A Renaissance Man for the Nineteenth-Century Shenandoah Valley" at 7 p.m. on March 2. The talk will be in the auditorium of the Robert C. Byrd Center for Congressional History and Education (formerly Byrd Center for Legislative Studies). Dr. Burke's talk will kick off the Historic Shepherdstown Commission's 2016 Speakers Series. Dr. Burke is the author of "An American Phoenix: A History of Storer College from Slavery to Desegregation, 1865-1955." Her book tells the story of the first college open to African-Americans in West Virginia from its origins during Reconstruction to its closure after the Supreme Court's Brown v. Board Education decision. John Storer, a New England philanthropist, gave $10,000 to establish the school, requiring that it be open to all, regardless of race, sex or religion. Dr. Burke is an Assistant Professor of Education at Shepherd University and a native of Martinsburg. She received her Bachelor's Degree from Shepherd and her Ph.D. from Virginia Tech. The event is free and open to the public. The Byrd Center is located on King Street on the Shepherd University campus next to Scarborough Library. Parking is available on the street or behind the library.

Dusquesne University Taburitzans

Get ready for a two-hour journey through the cultures of Eastern Europe filled with colorful costumes, live music, and spectacular dances. Now celebrating 79 years, the Duquesne Universty Tamburitzans are the longest-running multicultural ensemble in the United States. More than a dozen languages, more than 200 costumes, and nearly 50 instruments are featured in every show.

DogFest Shepherdstown

Shepherdstown goes to the dogs with DogFest. Bring your best friends and help us shine the spotlight on rescue, adoption, education, and humane legislation. See dozens of rescue groups and shelters parade their adoptable dogs, join in the community dog show, and meet some very unusual breeds. Watch border collies work sheep, dogs of all kinds compete in flyball, and tricks and obedience demos. Shop for dog accessories in the exhibit area, grab a great meal in Shepherdstown's famed restaurants, and pick up something for yourselves in our delightful shops. ALL EVENTS ARE FREE!

Where to find and photograph these 10 WV icons

Here are some of the most photographed icons in the Mountain State, and where you can best capture a beautiful

7 must-see stops on the Civil War Trail

The story of West Virginia tells us much about our nation’s most definitive war. Originally a part of Virginia’s Old

Wine and Arts Festival

Held on the expansive grounds of the historic Boydville Mansion, the annual Wine and Art Festival offers guests the best West Virginia wines, all-day live music, vendors and entertainment for a relaxing and fun experience. Guests will be able to sample state wines, ranging from very sweet to very dry-even honey and fruit wines, in a complimentary glass. After tasting, select a bottle of your favorite to enjoy in the shade of the lush trees adorning the property as you listen to the eclectic variety of bands, including jazz, blues, folk and rock.

41st Annual Fall Mountain Heritage Arts & Crafts Festival

Enjoy the beautiful countryside of the Blue Ridge Mountains as you stroll through the tents of artisans demonstrating and showcasing their work. Wine tasting, fabulous food and bands on Saturday and Sunday. Lots of kids crafts such as face painting and balloon sculpting.

Jefferson County CVB

7 jaw-dropping mountain wedding venues

Feel like shouting your love from the mountaintops? What better place to do it than the Mountain State? Whether the

The world’s biggest water tasting event. (Yes, really!)

It’s kind of like the Oscars, but for water. Every February for the past 25 years, the little town of Berkeley

Say “I love you” with the sweetest of the sweets

Switch it up this year and impress your sweetie with goodies whipped up in Wild, Wonderful West Virginia. These local

You’re welcome! 13 things WV brought the world

West Virginia has been a trailblazer from the very beginning. The state was formed on the eve of the Civil

9 best live, local music venues in WV

From bluegrass to rock’n’roll, gospel and country, you can get your fill of real mountain music here in the Mountain

This month only: sample every luxury in the country’s 1st spa town

By January, after all the holiday hustle and bustle, you may be in need of a little “me” time. Good

Red Hoop Pow-Wow

Drop in to experience a part of American Indian culture seldom experienced in our region. Featuring performances by --- Host Drum -- Medicine Horse Singers Head Man - Charlie Under Baggage Head Woman - Jennifer Under Baggage Staged by Arena Director Reed Brown, Jr. Free admission for Shepherd Students. The public are encouraged to come. Only $3 for children, and $5 for adults.

Soar through frosted forests with winter ziplining

A zipline trip can give you a unique bird’s eye view of the mountains— even in the winter. “The sparkle

15th Annual Race for the Birds

If your kids have enough “stuff,” here’s a gift idea.

Technology is wonderful. But the truth is we all need time to unplug— especially kids. With access to their favorite

11 things everyone who grew up in WV will remember fondly

Growing up in the Mountain State forged lifelong characteristics within me. Independence, a sense of adventure and wonderment, and a

Parks with a past: History’s most notable mountain landscapes

Of the prestigious U.S. National Parks, there are “scenic” parks, and there are “historic” parks. They could not be more

How many of these 45 authentic WV experiences have you had?

West Virginia has never been one to follow the trends— I mean, we exist because we created our own state

Beginner’s Soap Making Class

Beginner's Soap Making Class. In this class, students will learn the fundamentals of Cold Process Soap Making. We will make a batch of soap using olive oil, coconut oil, palm oil, cocoa butter, and lye. We’ll add Essential Oils and herbs to make a beautiful natural soap. Each student will take home 6 bars of handmade soap. Students will receive safety tips, recipes, and resources to help the beginning soap-maker. Cost: $90 (approximately 2 hours in length) Location: Shepherdstown, WV (Bring a friend and save $15 each off registration) Bring a friend for soap making, and save $15 off registration fee per person! Gift Certificates available! Pre-registration required at www.mywildrosesoap.com.

Valentine’s Handmade Market

"Valentine's Handmade Market" Sat. Feb. 6, 2015 10am to 4pm at the Town Run Brewery 202 E. Washington St. Shepherdstown, WV Shop for locally made gifts for your sweet heart from over 14 local artists and crafters! Handmade gift items include clothing, bath and body products, candles, signs, cards, chocolates, jewelry, and more!

Quirkiest places for truly unique WV gifts

Looking for some really, really unique gifts this holiday? Check out the wealth of quirky, curious and funky gift shops

24 resolutions to add to your bucket list this year

There are so many things to see and do in Wild, Wonderful West Virginia that it can be a bit

Up your camping game: master primitive skills like a pro

Do you have what it takes to make it on your own in the woods? If not, you can learn!

Friends of Music Martin Luther King Holiday Concert

Shepherdstown's Friends of Music will sponsor a special Martin Luther King Holiday Concert by the Two Rivers String Quartet on Saturday, January 16. The concert will be held at 7:30 p.m. at the Shepherdstown Opera House. It will honor Dr. King with two works by pre-eminent African-American composers and two other works inspired by African-American music. The works and their composers will be as follows: • "Panamanian Dances," by William Grant Still. • "Lullaby," by George Gershwin • “The American” String Quartet, by Antonin Dvorak • Three Rags: "The Entertainer," "Solace," and "Maple Leaf Rag," by Scott Joplin. Still is considered the “dean” of African-American composers. In these Dances, he created a work unlike anything that preceded it in the literature for strings by approximating the sounds of native instruments. Composed in 1919, Gershwin’s Lullaby has its roots in the blues. It was heard as an aria in the opera Blue Monday until it was performed in its original string quartet form by the Julliard String Quartet in 1967. Dvorak’s Quartet was based on his fascination with African-American spiritual music that he heard during his stay in New York. Joplin’s Rags are among the best-loved of American music. Admission to the concert will be free for Friends of Music members. The ticket price for others will be $20 per person ($18 before January 3). Seating at the Opera House is very limited, so those who want to purchase tickets are advised to do so early. Tickets and Friends' memberships can be purchased on the Friends' website at www.friendswv.org or by mail (FOM, PO Box 220, Shepherdstown, WV 25443). Visa and Master Card will be accepted.

Simplify with a small-town holiday in the hills

  Rediscover the simple wonders of the season in the West Virginia hills. Step into the quaint charm of small-town

The WV-made holiday shopping guide

If West Virginians are known for one thing, it’s our enormous state pride. This holiday season, spread the Christmas cheer

1 trail that charts 5 charming small towns

The 136-mile Washington Heritage Trail traces the footsteps of George Washington through picturesque 18th century towns in the Eastern Panhandle.

Cacapon State Park – BIG BAD WOLF

The "big bad wolf" is a widely known term, but in actuality wolves are more afraid of us than we are of them. Join Ironwood Wolves, a small, USDA licensed educational facility, as they tackle the myths associated with these fascinating creatures. Hear discussions about behavior, family life, reproduction, diet, myth vs fact and the wolfs important role in the ecosystem. The presence of an educational animal is part program. This family friendly activity will take place in the Cacapon State Park conference center at the Lodge. Call for program times or email for program. There is no charge to attend.

Cacapon State Park – FIRST DAY HIKE

Let New Year's Day be a perfect opportunity to start 2016 by connecting nature, engaging in physical activity, and promoting healthy lifestyles all year long. Meet at 10:00a at the Cacapon State Park Nature Center to begin exploring the natural beauty of the Ridge Trail. This trail is approximately 1 ½ miles with a few hills. Cacapon State Park is open year-round and features a lodge, restaurant, cabins and more. Learn about other events at Cacapon on the park website, Events/Deals tab. (First Day Hike miles can be used as earned miles in the 2016 Chief's (Hiking) Challenge.

11 winter shows not even snow should keep you from

The holidays in West Virginia are packed with fun theatrical offerings – from symphony performances to ballets to plays –

7 most unique old-time holiday events in WV

If the commercial bustle of modern America threatens to be a bit much for you this holiday season, never fear—

West Virginia State Parks – NEW YEAR’S EVE EVENTS

Ten state parks in West Virginia have lodges. Each with overnight accommodations and restaurants. Most with NYE activities planned including dances. Find information on the Full Calendar at www.wvstateparks.com. Parks featuring dinners/dances are Chief Logan Lodge, North Bend, Blackwater Falls, Canaan Valley, Cacapon, Pipestem, Twin Falls, Stonewall Resort and Tygart Lake.

4 luxurious all-natural spa treatments in the mountains

Are you in need of a little rest and relaxation? West Virginia’s warm, natural mineral springs are said to have

Pure mountain ingredients that add WV flavor to your meal

If you’re thankful to live in West Virginia, there’s no feast more fitting than one created with the state’s pure

Let someone else cook this holiday

If the thought of cooking and carving a 10+ pound bird is terrifying to you— not to mention all of that

Tuck the family away in these mountain towns this holiday

If you want to add a little charm to your season, escape with your loved ones to the secluded hills

Shepherdstown Street Fest

Come join us for a celebration in Shepherdstown, WV -- the oldest town in West Virginia -- and enjoy our local musicians, artists, restaurants and retail shops! The festival includes live music on two stages throughout the day, vendor booths lining our main street, kid-friendly activities and a beer garden located close to all of our local restaurants and retail shops. Come celebrate with us!

Shepherdstown Christmas Celebration

The historic town of Shepherdstown WV will kick off its annual "Christmas in Shepherdstown" celebration on Friday, November 27, the day after Thanksgiving. The November 27 schedule will include 4:00-8:00 p.m. evening events that are traditional for the town: a bonfire, a chili and cornbread supper, the lighting of the town tree, the arrival of Santa, and children's visits with Santa. Other highlights of that weekend will be carriage rides, a special children's program at the Community Club, a live Nativity, and a Christmas sing-along at the Methodist Church. After that, there will be many different events every weekend and some weekdays until Christmas. Most events will be free. The town will hold its annual Christmas parade at 11:00 am Saturday, December 5. Each weekend will feature unique events related to various aspects of Shepherdstown's history. In particular, the December 5-6 weekend will recreate a "Civil War Christmas in Shepherdstown," with Union and Confederate encampments, lectures and panel discussions, children's activities, period music and street entertainment. Highlights of the remaining weekends before Christmas will include three performances of the Shepherdstown School of Dance's annual Nutcracker Ballet during the December 12-13 weekend and Community Caroling, a TubaChristmas Concert, and a Winter Solstice Concert the weekend of December 19 and 20. Every weekend will include children's activities; holiday marketplaces selling handmade crafts, baked goods, and greens; and special musical performances. Many shops will be open late on Fridays and Saturdays. There will be free parking in all the town's metered spaces on Friday, November 27 and every weekday from the 14th of December through January 3. There is always free parking at Shepherdstown's metered spaces on weekends. Free weekend parking is also available in the Shepherd University parking lot at High and Princess streets, one block from downtown. Events and activities will continue to be added. For an up-to-date listing of all events keep checking www.christmasinshepherdstown.com. Or contact the Shepherdstown Visitors Center at 304-876-2786 or svc@shepherdstown.info.

The #1 holiday getaway? You won’t expect this…

What’s the most world-renowned place to escape for the holidays? To the casino. Casinos in the Mountain State are famed for

4 places to pamper yourself on a WV getaway

Want to spend your vacation laying back in a sauna, soaking in a hot tub or getting a massage?  Well,

Wind the day away on these 6 porches with gorgeous mountain views

We don’t know what it is about West Virginia porches, but they almost demand that you stop and sit. Whether