Access to $13 million credit initiative to fuel West Virginia small business growth

The U.S. Department of the Treasury has approved West Virginia’s application for State Small Business Credit Initiative funding. The approval will give West Virginia access to $13.1 million in federal dollars to fund new small business lending programs. Administered through the state’s new West Virginia Capital Access Program (WVCAP), the funding will enable small businesses to leverage new capital and credit to create private sector jobs. WVCAP is expected to go into effect during the first quarter of 2012.

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Saucy Jackson County firm wins four prestigious Scovie Awards

Miss Mona’s Sauces and Spices scooped up four awards from the Scovie Awards. The annual competition recognizes the top fiery foods products from around the world. This year’s event included 792 products and 161 companies from 38 states and four countries. Miss Mona’s entries placed in the top three in their respective categories: Extra Hot Salsa, category Processed Salsa/XX Hot, first place; Caribbean BBQ, category Barbeque Sauce, second place; Liquid Lucifer, category Extreme Sauce, second place; and Tropical Salsa, category Processed Salsa/Fruit, third. Entering the Scovie Awards was the first time the Sandyville-based company had taken part in a food competition, said owner Ramona Price.

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WEST VIRGINIA BUSINESS RESOURCES NOW IN EASY-TO-FIND DIRECTORY

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Now West Virginia businesses can turn to one comprehensive source to find economic development resources available in the state.  The West Virginia Business Resource Directory catalogues a concise summary of business incentive and development programs.

The directory is a project of the West Virginia Development Office (WVDO).

“This is the first time the state has assembled such a comprehensive directory of business resources,” said Commerce Secretary Keith Burdette. “The Business Resource Directory will help West Virginia businesses quickly and easily connect with available programs that fit their specific needs. It will also provide another tool economic developers and state agencies can use to promote the business-friendly climate in West Virginia. We will continue to update the directory as new and better information becomes available.”

The programs are grouped in statewide and regional categories. Within the categories, the programs are organized by type: Business-to-Business; Community Support; Education and Training; Financial Assistance; Human Resources Assistance; and Technical Assistance. The directory provides a concise summary of each program’s essential facts, such as contact person, application process and eligibility.

The West Virginia Business Resource Directory is available in an online version and as a downloadable PDF at www.wvdo.org/BusinessResourceDirectory.

# # #

FOR RELEASE: Jan. 17, 2012                                                                          
Contact: Catherine Zacchi, 304-957-9340, catherine.m.zacchi@wv.gov 

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First West Virginia small businesses receive approval for WVCAP funds

Three transactions total $550,000

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The West Virginia Capital Access Program (WVCAP) approved fund transactions totaling $550,000 for three small businesses during its January meeting. 

WVCAP is the state’s new program designed to increase small business access to capital they can use to invest, expand and create jobs. The program was announced in December 2011 when the United States Department of the Treasury approved the state’s application for State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) funding. The approval gives West Virginia access to $13.1 million to fund new small business lending programs.

The WVCAP transactions are:

• Protea Bioscience, Morgantown, $100,000 loan originated by West Virginia Jobs Investment Trust (WVJIT)
• Liberty Hydro Inc., South Charleston, $250,000 convertible debenture originated by WVJIT
• Aither Chemicals LLC, South Charleston, $200,000 convertible debenture originated by INNOVA

Convertible debenture is a type of loan that the lender can convert into company shares. Debentures let companies raise the money they need to grow while leaving their assets available to develop their projects.

WVCAP approved several organizations as lending sources. They are:

• WVJIT, the state’s venture capital fund
• Natural Capital Investment Fund
• West Virginia Rural Health Infrastructure Loan Fund
• INNOVA Commercialization Group
• New River Regional Development Authority
• Mid-Ohio Valley Area Development Corporation
• Ohio

Valley Industrial & Business Development Partnership

WVCAP committee members are:

• Andrew Zulauf, Walt Dial and Bob Welty, WVJIT
• Keith  Burdette, West Virginia Department of Commerce
• Steve Webb, West Virginia Economic Development Authority
• Kristina Oliver, West Virginia Small Business Development Council
• Marten Jenkins, Natural Capital Investment Fund

For more information, contact West Virginia Jobs Investment Trust (WVJIT), 304-345-6200, www.wvjit.org.

# # #
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Jan. 23, 2012  
CONTACT: Andrew Zulauf, 304-345-6200

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WVSBDC OFFERS SMALL BUSINESS WORKSHOPS IN MOOREFIELD FEB. 8

Register for Feb. 8 Session on Business Fundamentals or Sustainable Growth

MOOREFIELD, W.Va. — Two small business workshops are scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 8, in Moorefield. The workshops “Business Fundamentals” and “Sustainable Growth” are part of the West Virginia Small Business Development Center (WVSBDC) new training and business coaching program Three Step Jump Start to help small business owners receive the right information at the right time.

Three Step Jump Start helps entrepreneurs and small business owners in West Virginia accelerate their potential success by learning the structure and services provided by WVSBDC. This first step is accomplished by viewing a video located on the agency’s website, www.wvsbdc.org. Entrepreneurs and business owners can then attend one of two workshops held each month. One workshop is designed specifically for start-ups and new businesses and the other for existing and mature businesses.

The workshops are:

5:30 to 8:30 p.m.: “Business Fundamentals” is designed specifically for people who are thinking of starting a business, or have had a business for one year or less. The workshop provides essential information on what an entrepreneur needs to know to start a business successfully.

1 to 4 p.m.: “Sustainable Growth” is designed for existing and mature businesses in operation for a year or more. The workshop provides essential information for what a business owner needs to know to build, expand or refresh a business.

Both workshops will be held in the Hardy County Rural Development Authority, 223 North Main Street, Suite 102, in Moorefield.
Registration is required by Friday, Feb. 3.  To register, call B. Ludewig at 304-530-4964.

Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance.

After completing a workshop, interested entrepreneurs or business owners may schedule an appointment with WVSBDC for one-on-one coaching sessions. The WVSBDC coaches provide assistance with business plan development, financial statement preparation, cash flow analysis and other services.

The WVSBDC is part of the West Virginia Development Office and creates economic impact through offering entrepreneurs and small businesses cost-effective business coaching and technical assistance. The West Virginia SBDC is funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.

# # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Jan. 24, 2012
CONTACT: B. Ludewig, 304-530-4964

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Tourism Adventure Media Advisory Jan. 9-22, 2012

Lore and Tracking Weekend: Jan. 13-15, Twin Falls State Park, Mullens
Each January, on Martin Luther King Jr. birthday weekend at Twin Falls State Park, Trails, Inc. holds a Lore and Tracking Weekend Workshop that focuses on cultural exchanges during the 18th century in the southern Appalachian Mountains. Abundant wildlife at the park helps enhance your tracking skills – skills necessary to the survival of early Americans who frequented the trails of the region on hunting, trading, and warring expeditions. Other skills explored include plant uses, scavenging and hide tanning. The event provides credits for participants in the West Virginia Master Naturalist Program. The park offers package deals for the weekend event with both cabins and lodge rooms available on a first reserved, first served basis. For a brochure events and information on instructors, visit www.trailsinclivinghistory.com. For additional information and reservations, visit http://www.twinfallsresort.com or contact 304-294-4000.

Upper Potomac Fiddle Retreat: Jan. 13-15, Shepherdstown University, Shepherdstown
The fiddle retreat features two-hour classes in the morning and afternoon on a variety of topics. The weekend includes a Friday night showcase concert, a Saturday night contra dance with a teacher-led open band, jam sessions, student-led mini-classes and more. 2012 special guest teachers are Klezmatic’s fiddler, Lisa Gutkin; New England fiddler Amy Cann; Irish fiddler Cleek Schrey; and many returning local favorites. A weekend tuition fee of $150 covers all program events including the evening concert, sessions and eight hours of instruction in classes and workshops. Partial weekend tuition options are also available. For information, call 304- 263-2531, email updf@earthlink.net or visit http://www.fiddleretreat.info.

Battle of Droop Mountain Dinner Theatre Presentation: Jan. 14, Hawks Nest State Park
Superintendent of Droop Mountain Battlefield and Civil War researcher Mike Smith relates the story of the Battle of Droop Mountain. The presentation features rarely seen photos and a display of Civil War artifacts found at Droop Mountain. The cost is $54.25 per person or $200 for four and includes a full dinner with drinks, dessert, admission to the performance and all tax and gratuities. Seating is limited and couples should expect to be seated four to table. For more information, contact 304-658-5212 or email hawksnestinfo@wv.gov.

Ghost Hunt: Jan. 14, Trans Allegheny Asylum, Weston
Ever thought about spending the night in a haunted asylum? This ghost hunt, from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m., allows 40 people, divided into four groups of 10, to explore all the dark recesses of this massive gothic asylum. Check-in time is 8:30 p.m. Reservations are required. Each group will have a guide to assist with the transition between floors. After a brief paranormal tour, you may either hunt alone or with an experienced ghost-hunting guide. Guides will ensure that you have a positive and safe evening. Contact 304-269-5070 or visit http://www.trans-alleghenylunaticasylum.com for additional information.

28TH Annual Festival of Food and Wine: Jan. 20-22, Lakeview Resort, Morgantown
Embark on a journey filled with sensational food and wine. This year’s event is titled “A Culinary Road Trip Across America” and is bigger and better than ever before. Whether you are a returning guest or a first-time visitor, you will enjoy this adventure of food, wine, cooking classes, seminars and an artisan marketplace featuring the area’s most talented artisans! Weekend getaway packages are $415 per couple and day packages are $125 per person. Call 800-624-8300 for reservations or visit http://www.lakeviewresort.com for more information.

Country Western Couples Weekend: Jan. 20-22, Pipestem Resort State Park, Pipestem
This is a dance weekend packaged with instruction, overnight accommodations and some meals. Weekend cost per couple/double occupancy is $200.22. The price includes Friday and Saturday lodging, Saturday dinner, instruction/classes and activities. Advanced reservations are recommended. Contact 304-466-1800 or visit http://www.pipestemresort.com for more information.

West Virginia Hunting and Fishing Show: Jan. 20-22, Charleston Civic Center, Charleston
This is the largest, most comprehensive hunting and fishing show in West Virginia with more than 240 booths. The primary purpose for this event is to bring hunters and fishermen into contact with organizations that can provide them with goods and services related to these activities. The show features exhibitors from as far away as Alaska, New Zealand, Spain and South Africa. In conjunction with the show, The West Virginia Whitetail Hall of Fame provides an opportunity for individuals to bring their West Virginia deer trophies in for official scoring and to display the largest racks harvested. Additional activities will include an auction for wildlife, seminars and deer antler scoring. Hours are noon to 9 p.m. on Friday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $7 for adults; $1 for children 6 -12; and free to children under 6. For more information, contact 304-562-9412 or visit http://www.wvtrophyhunters.com.

Winter Wonder Weekend: Jan. 20-22, North Bend State Park, Cairo
Come for a weekend filled with activities for winter enthusiasts of all ages!  The weekend will feature outer space-themed crafts, hikes, games, sleigh riding (weather permitting), contests and much more. The cost is $135 per person based on double occupancy and single reservations are $160. This includes two nights’ lodging in either the lodge or a cabin, five delicious meals and registration fee which includes a craft, door prizes and all weekend activities. Contact Teri Surface or Emily Fleming at 304-558-2754 or visit http://www.northbendsp.com for additional information.

The Amazing Kreskin: Jan. 21, Capitol Theatre, Wheeling
With a showman’s flair, a comedian’s wit, and the capacities of a bona fide mentalist or thought reader, The Amazing Kreskin has, for some six decades, dramatized the unique facets of the human mind … his own.  His very name has become an integral part of pop culture throughout the world, invoked in comedy clubs, comic strips, print stories, and TV shows from sitcoms on through national magazines. It was during a childhood game “hot and cold” that Kreskin’s remarkable ability to find hidden objects emerged. His ability to read thoughts expanded, and by his teens he also became nationally recognized in the United States as “The World’s Youngest Hypnotist,” resulting in his collaborating in psychological clinical studies extending into the realm of parapsychology and the power of suggestion.  The show begins at 2 p.m. For tickets and additional information, contact 304-233-4470 or visit http://www.capitoltheatrewheeling.com.

Star Party: Jan. 21, National Radio Astronomy Observatory, Green Bank
NRAO staff will orient you to the star-filled sky and then invite you to view the night sky on the Star Party Patio. Some optical telescopes and binoculars are provided or you may bring your own. You won’t believe the view! Program begins 30 minutes before dark. Cloudy skies will cancel the night viewing. In addition, a featured monthly activity will be offered to the public at 2:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. The activities will be 30 to 60 minutes long. These events are free and reservations are not required. Contact 304-456-2150 for more information.

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The West Virginia Division of Tourism produces this media advisory with the help of other agencies and tourism businesses across the Mountain State. This is a sampling of events taking place throughout West Virginia in the coming weeks. For an extensive list, visit www.wvtourism.com and click on “calendar” at the top of the page. If you would like additional information or if you are an event organizer or promoter and would like to have your event considered for inclusion in the Adventure Advisory, please contact Andrea Bond at Andrea.B.Bond@wv.gov. 

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North Bend becomes its own galaxy for a weekend, Jan. 20-22 - Register for Winter Wonder Weekend at North Bend State Park

    CAIRO, W.Va. – Dark skies and wintry weather is the perfect blend for the annual Winter Wonder Weekend at North Bend State Park. “Outer Space” is this year’s theme with related activities, games and programs that will create a fun family winter weekend Jan. 20-22. Sled riding is part of the fun if there is snow. “We don’t do warp speeds at our sledding hill,” said Ken Zebo, activities coordinator at the Ritchie county destination, “but we sure feel like a rocket taking off and hope for a smooth slide.”  Zebo will be involved with the planned NASA activities during the weekend.

    The weekend package is $135 per person and includes two nights lodging, five delicious full meals, a craft, door prizes and all weekend activities. Lodging for children under age 12 is free. Cabins are available and the rates are according to cabin size and occupancy. Cabins make a great family weekend option with multiple bedrooms, kitchens and fireplace to enjoy.

    To participate in Nature Wonder Weekend and to register, call 304-558-2754 or visit www.northbendsp.com and click events/deals to download a reservation form and to learn more about events and activities at North Bend State Park.

Special programs planned for the weekend include:

    Bill Beatty, author, educator and naturalist, will present “Spaced Out” on Friday evening at 7:30 p.m.  Beatty is a well-known botanist and natural history interpreter from Wellsburg, W.Va.  Friday activities also include “space ship” crafts, North Bend State Park tour, dinner, a Winter Evening Frolic and a winter hike  – “Our Space: A Nighttime View from the Third Rock.”

    Saturday activities include winter hikes, scrapbooking classes, and tours to area shops: Berdine’s Clif’s Car Museum, Colonial Retrospectives, and Arlo’s.  A special treat, the StarLab Planetarium, is part of the afternoon activities. StarLab is part of the NASA educational services.  Stepping Stone band is the evening entertainment after a dinner buffet.  Stepping Stone is a Bridgeport based group featuring father, son and grandson playing classic rock and contemporary music.

    Sunday, following an 8:30 a.m. devotional presented by Jonathan, Sara and Sam Summers of Harrisville, is a featured NASA program focusing on astronomy, constellations and our solar system.

    North Bend State Park is located in the northwestern West Virginia and is easily accessible from four-lane U.S. 50, which stretches from Parkersburg to Clarksburg. Driving east, take U.S. 50 to the junction of WV 31 (21 miles). Take WV 31 to Cairo and follow signs to the park. Driving west, take WV 16 to Harrisville and follow signs to the park.

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Our national emblem counts – Eagle Count at Pipestem State Park January 7

    PIPESTEM, W.Va. – Weather permitting, “and it looks like it will,” the Eagle Count in the Pipestem area will be conducted on Jan. 7, 2012.  “It’s an annual survey that Jim Phillips, naturalist at Pipestem Resort, has conducted with the help of volunteers for many years,” said Mindy Waldron.

    Waldron and her husband Al are frequent volunteers for bird surveys in the Pipestem area and across West Virginia. The Waldrons are members of the Bibbee Nature Club and other nature-based organizations. Waldron is coordinating this year’s efforts. 
 
    From 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 7, volunteers from novice to advanced birders are assigned to observation areas. Bird watching, especially watching eagles in southern West Virginia, can be addictive.  “We’re outside, pretty much regardless of weather. We enjoy each other’s company and birding stories and sighting.  And when we get a new person to take up bird watching, that is wonderful,” Waldron explained.

    There are several observation locations, including Bluestone State Park, Brooks, Sandstone Falls, Mouth of Indian Creek, Shanklin’s Ferry, Bull Falls, downstream in the New River Gorge, Glen Lyn (Va.), and along the Greenbrier River.   At the conclusion of the four-hour survey, participants will meet at the Hinton Dairy Queen to compare and compile sightings. Past bird surveys are posted on Pipestem Resort State Park website at www.pipestemresort.com/Surveys.html.

    Participants should dress for the weather and bring binoculars, if possible. Waldron will provide other details, survey forms to use, and other related information. Participants must pre-register by noon of Jan. 6.  Novice birders are paired with more advance birders. 

    To participate in the eagle survey contact, Mindy Waldron before noon of Friday, Jan. 6.  Email contact is mwaldron@suddenlink.net and the phone is 304-573-7423.  An observation station assignment and instructions will be provided during registration.

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An Evening with Porte Crayon – A History Alive Progam at Blackwater Falls State Park January 21

    DAVIS, W.Va. – Some of the earliest images depicting West Virginia’s scenic areas, the people and their lifestyles were created by artist and illustrator David Hunter Strother.  He is better known by his pen name “Porte Crayon.”  A History Alive program, presented by Don Teter of Monterville, is scheduled at Blackwater Falls State Park on Jan. 21 at 7 p.m. It is a free presentation and is open to the public.  Attendees will find ample parking at the Harold S. Walters Nature Center.  Park Naturalist Paulita Cousin will be the event host and she promises hot chocolate and an enjoyable program. The nature center exhibits will also be open for the evening.

    The history program is made possible by funding from the West Virginia Humanities Council and Blackwater Falls State Park.  To view illustrations and drawings preserved digitally by Strother, an artist and writer once considered a household name, visit http://images.lib.wvu.edu/StrothBook.pdf.  There are more than 700 images online, many depicting people and places in what was then Virginia, now West Virginia, including the Blackwater Falls and Berkeley Springs state park areas.

    For more information about Blackwater Falls lodge and cabin and special events and packages, call 304-259-5216 or visit www.blackwaterfalls.com.

About David Hunter Strother – “Porte Crayon”

    Strother was one of the most accomplished and diverse men of the new state of West Virginia in the mid to late 1800s. Born in Martinsburg (then Virginia), he trained as an artist in Europe and gained fame as a writer and illustrator for national magazines under the name Porte Crayon.  Strother illustrated several early travel stories including The Blackwater Chronicle, which shared the exploits of an 1851 expedition of sportsmen into the Canaan Valley. From Charles Town, he reported and illustrated John Brown’s capture, trial and execution for Harpers Weekly in 1859. During the Civil War, Strother served as a Union officer and topographer who saw action in several major battles. He was one of the founders of the West Virginia Historical Society and was a speaker at the first commencement held at West Virginia University.

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Training Program for Historic Interpretation Offered March 31 at Prickett’s Fort State Park

    FAIRMONT, W.Va. – The Pricketts Fort Memorial Foundation is bringing NAI Certified Interpretive Trainer Richard N. Pawling to West Virginia on Saturday, March 31.  “An intense day of historic interpretive training is our goal,” said Melissa May, Executive Director of the Pricketts Fort Foundation. Participants will learn effective methods for presenting history to diverse audiences.

    “This is required training for all new fort staff and volunteers, but it is open to anyone, including students and interpretive staff and volunteers from other historic sites across West Virginia and beyond,” May said.

    The training will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. A brown bag lunch is recommended. The class will meet in the Visitor Center and the cost is $36 for Pricketts Fort Memorial Foundation (PFMF) Members, $40 for Non-members, and $20 for Students. The workshop is free for current PFMF staff and volunteers. Registration is limited. Call the foundation office (304) 363-3030 or register online www.prickettsfort.org.

About Richard Pawling

    Pawling, a natural entertainer and former college professor, is a master at captivating audiences of all ages and ethnic backgrounds. He is the owner and educational and interpretive specialist of HISTORY ALIVE!SM, a firm founded in 1991 that provides living history and traditional and heritage music programs and training workshops to parks, museums, colleges and universities, as well as civic, professional, and historical organizations throughout the United States and Canada. Annually, he presents up to 200 HISTORY ALIVE! SM performances and living history workshops.

    He has been a National Park Ranger and was the winner of the National Association for Interpretation (NAI) "Excellence in Interpretation Award," a national distinction presented annually to one individual, institution or agency. He is both a NAI "Certified Interpretive Guide" and a "Certified Interpretive Trainer." Pawling is the author of the book, Old Clothes: But All I Wanted to Do Was Wear Old Clothes and Go Back to the Past.


    Prickett’s Fort State Park is located near Fairmont. The fort is a re-creation of the original Prickett's Fort of 1774, which served as a refuge from Native American war parties on the western frontier of Colonial Virginia. The "new" fort serves as a living history site where interpreters re-create late 18th century lifestyle through period attire and demonstrations of a variety of colonial crafts. Throughout the season, visitors may find blacksmiths, spinners, weavers and other traditional artisans at work, and a gun shop which features the only public demonstrations of 18th century firearm manufacturing in the state.

    For additional information, visit www.prickettsfortstatepark.com or call 304-363-3030 for events and activities and fort hours.

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West Virginia Trout Stocking Week of January 3 – 6, 2012

    ELKINS, W.Va. – The following waters were stocked with trout the week of Jan. 3, 2012:

Anthony Creek
Barboursville Lake
Chief Cornstalk Lake
Chief Logan Lake
Curtisville Lake
Huey Lake
Knapps Creek
Larenim Park Lake
Laurel Lake
Lost River
North Fork of South Branch
North Fork of South Branch (C & R)
Pennsboro Reservoir
Ridenour Lake
Rollins Lake
Shavers Fork (lower section)
Tracy Lake
Trout Run
Turkey Run Lake
Waites Run

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Outer Space, Western Dance and more at W.Va. State Parks Jan. 20 - 22

    SOUTH CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Winter brings many events of interest to West Virginia’s state parks the weekend of Jan. 20, according to Sissie Summers, state parks programming services coordinator. “Canaan Valley has downhill skiing and Blackwater Falls has sledding.  Hiking and bird watching are outdoor activities that park visitors enjoy in winter and any other time of year. But our special weekends generally focus on a specific interest or activity and generally with an overnight package available.” The weekend of Jan. 20 – 22 is especially packed full of winter fun.

Winter Wonder Weekend at North Bend

    Dark skies and wintry weather is the perfect blend for the annual Winter Wonder Weekend at North Bend State Park. “Outer Space” is this year’s theme with related activities, games and programs that will create a fun family winter weekend Jan. 20-22. Sled riding is part of the fun if there is snow. “We don’t do warp speeds at our sledding hill,” said Ken Zebo, activities coordinator at the Ritchie county destination, “but we sure feel like a rocket taking off and hope for a smooth slide.” Zebo will be involved with the planned NASA activities during the weekend.   Advance reservations are required.
    For pricing and availability, call 304-558-2764.

Country Western Couples Weekend at Pipestem

    Pipestem Resort State is hosting a Country Western Dance Couples Weekend that includes two nights at the park lodge, dance instruction, and Saturday evening dinner for two. “The $200 package is a great dance weekend,” said Shirley Martin, activities coordinator at the resort. “There is plenty of dancing and several instruction sessions.”
    For dance weekends scheduled at Pipestem Resort, call 304-466-1800

Porte Crayon - A History Alive Program at Blackwater Falls

    Some of the earliest images depicting West Virginia’s scenic areas, the people and their lifestyles were created by artist and illustrator David Hunter Strother. He is better known by his pen name “Porte Crayon.” A History Alive program, presented by Don Teter of Monterville, is scheduled at Blackwater Falls State Park on Jan. 21 at 7 p.m. It is a free presentation and is open to the public.
    Call Blackwater Falls at 304-259-5216 for greater details.

Shirley Schweizer Winter Walk at Kanawha State Forest

    On Jan. 21, the Kanawha State Forest Foundation hosts this annual winter walk. Named for foundation member and forest friend Shirley Schweizer, the hike will be led by Doug Wood. Attendees should meet at the Kanawha State Forest swimming pool prior to 2 p.m. “This interpretive hike will be enlightening and educational with concentration on forest ecology during the winter months,” Wood explained.
    For more details about hikes at Kanawha State Forest, call 304-558-3500.

    For online information about these or other events and activities at West Virginia’s state parks, visit www.wvstateparks.com and click “Event Calendar.”

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West Virginia Trout Stocking Week of January 9 - 13, 2012

    ELKINS, W.Va. – The following waters were stocked with trout the week of Jan. 9, 2012:

Anderson Lake
Blackwater River
Bullskin Run
Cacapon Park Lake
Cedar Creek Lake
Elk River
Evitts Run
Fitzpatrick Lake
Gandy Creek
Glady Fork
Hurricane Reservoir
Krodel Lake
Laurel Fork (Randolph)
Lick Creek Pond
Little Beaver Lake
Middle Creek
Miletree Lake
Mill Creek of Opequon Creek
New Creek
North Fork of Patterson Creek
Opequon Creek
Rocky Marsh Run
Shavers Fork (Bemis)
South Branch (Smoke Hole)
Spruce Knob Lake
Tomlinson Run
Wayne Dam

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West Virginia Hunters Harvest 2,007 Black Bears in 2011

    SOUTH CHARLESTON, W.Va. – West Virginia hunters harvested 2,007 black bears during the combined 2011 archery and firearms seasons, according to Paul Johansen, assistant chief in charge of game management for the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources. The preliminary harvest data for the combined 2011 seasons was 16 percent lower than the record harvest of 2,392 established in 2010. The 2011 black bear harvest is the third highest in West Virginia history. 

            “As predicted in the 2011 Mast Survey and Hunting Outlook brochure, mast conditions had a tremendous influence on the distribution of this year’s bear harvest,” said Johansen. “Lower mast availability in 2011 allowed archers to pattern bears more effectively and led to an increased archery harvest.  However, a shortage of fall foods drives bears to den earlier, which leads to a lower firearms harvest in the traditional December season. The firearm harvest for bears remained steady compared to previous years because of the early firearms seasons. These early seasons are designed to ensure that counties remain at their management goal.” 

            Hunters took 619 bears during the 2011 archery season. The top five counties were Randolph (70), Preston (56), Nicholas (44), Webster (41) and Wyoming (34).

            Firearm hunters harvested 1,388 bears during 2011. Hunters took 631 bears in September, 76 during the concurrent buck/bear season, and 681 during the traditional December season.  Top five counties were Randolph (148), Greenbrier (141), Pendleton (132), Pocahontas (112) and Webster (110).

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Governor Tomblin along with West Virginia ski Ski Industry Officials Declare January Learn a Snow Sport Month

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Pipestem Resort is site for Gift Buyers Marketplace, Feb. 6-8

    PIPESTEM, W.Va. – More than 50 vendors are registered for the annual Gift Buyers Marketplace scheduled February 6-8 at Pipestem Resort State Park. A trade show for gift and souvenir buyers is an annual event that brings wholesale vendors and gift shop buyers together under one roof for three days. Buyers must register in advance or at the door. There is no charge for buyers to attend. 

            “The gift show gives buyers a one-stop venue for merchandise purchases and retail trends,” said Dale McLaughlin, Lodge Manager at Pipestem Resort.  “It is a wholesale shopping venue for any retail sales gift shop or business looking for items.”

           The Marketplace features items ranging from shirts and caps, wood works, novelty items, and apparel, to West Virginia products. The event draws buyers from attractions, state parks, retail shops and shop buyers looking for new souvenir, novelty items, and gift-type items for retail sales.

            The Marketplace starts Monday, Feb. 6, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and runs through noon Wednesday, Feb. 8. The agenda includes opportunities for buyers and vendors to network as well as one-on-one appointments and merchandising opportunities. A vendors list is available. The exhibit hall is staged in the Conference Center and additional meeting room areas at Pipestem’s McKeever Lodge. Coffee and light refreshments are provided each day of the show.

            A registration form is online at www.pipestemresort.com and click on Buyers Registration Form. Pre-registration by phone is also welcomed or buyers can register as walk-ins Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday. “The gift show at Pipestem is all under one roof and there is no charge for buyers to attend,” said McLaughlin. Overnight accommodations are available. 

            For additional information about Pipestem’s Gift Buyers Marketplace 2012, vendors list or buyers registration, call Pipestem Resort at 304-466-1800.

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History Series is “A Journey Through Time” at Blennerhassett Island State Park five Sundays in February and March

    PARKERSBURG, W.Va. – “A Journey Through Time” theme binds five Sunday afternoon history programs in February and March, creating the 2012 Winter Lecture Series at Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park. The programs feature two first-person interpreters and speakers on a variety of Ohio Valley and West Virginia topics. For five Sunday afternoons at 2 p.m., the Blennerhassett Museum of Regional History In Parkersburg invites the public to attend the programs free of charge.

     “’Black Odyssey: the Mid-Ohio Valley’s African American Experience’ will be on display as part of the lecture series,” according to Pam Salisbury, events coordinator at the park. The Smoot Theater Children’s Choir will perform on February 5 and the Smoot Theater Boys’ Choir will perform on February 26.  Both choral shows will be at the museum prior to each history program.  Dulcimer player Scott Cain will provide special music each Sunday.

     The lecture series is made possible by Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park and Museum, the Blennerhassett Historical Foundation Inc., and the Friends of Blennerhassett.  “We are able to offer this Winter Lecture Series free of charge due to the resources available from the WV Humanities Council’s History Alive program and its Sesquicentennial Speakers Bureau, and the Rivers Institute / Hanover College Speakers Bureau,” Salisbury said.
 
    Light refreshments will be served.  Attendees should confirm attendance and reserve seats in advance by calling 304-420-4800. Donations are accepted by the Friends of Blennerhassett to support programming costs. There is no charge to attend the lecture series programs. For more information, visit online at www.blennerhassettislandstatepark.com.

 “A Journey Through Time” Sunday Afternoon Presentations

February 5, 2012

HARRIET TUBMAN Underground Railroad Heroine (1820-1913)
    Harriet Tubman was born into slavery in Maryland but escaped to freedom in 1849 through the Underground Railroad. She became the most famous leader of that network, aiding slaves in their escapes to both free states and Canada. When the Civil War erupted, her Underground experiences and knowledge of covert operations made her an invaluable resource to federal officers. Operating through that long conflict as spy, nurse, scout, and guide for Union troops, she was present at the ill-fated Union assault of South Carolina’s Fort Wagner. Harriet Tubman is portrayed by Ilene Evans of Thomas, W.Va. The Harriet Tubman presentation is made possible in part by the WV History Alive Program through the WV Humanities Council.
 

February 12, 2012

CLARA BARTON – Civil War Nurse and Red Cross Founder (1821-1912)
    Clara Barton is recognized as the first American woman allowed to tend the wounded on the front lines during the Civil War on an organized, official basis. She became known as “The Angel of the Battlefield.” She was tireless in delivering medical supplies, establishing field hospitals, cooking for the wounded, cleaning operating rooms and caring for all the sufferers whether they came from North or South, or were black or white. After the war, she led a four-year search for missing soldiers. She is chiefly remembered today as the founder of the American Red Cross. Clara Barton is portrayed by Fayette County actress and historical interpreter Karen Vuranch.  The Clara Barton presentation is made possible in part by the WV History Alive Program through the WV Humanities Council.
 
February 19 2012

“WAS THE CIVIL WAR A JUST WAR?”
    Dr. Aaron Sheehan-Dean, Eberly Professor of Civil War Studies at West Virginia University, examines the framework of just law theory to consider fundamental questions about the nature of the conflict. How were non-combatants and prisoners of war treated? What were the roles of guerrillas and irregular forces? What was the relationship between civilian and military authority in the North and the South? The answers reveal much about how the war fits into the larger pattern of global warfare and democracy in the modern world.  Dr. Aaron Sheehan-Dean is from Morgantown, W.Va., and represents the Sesquicentennial Speaker Bureau of the WV Humanities Council.
 
February 26, 2012

PLEASE, DO YOU HAVE ANY NEWS? – The Civil War’s Devastating Effect on the Public
    The Civil War was a trying time not only for the troops who served both North and the South, but also for the wives, friends, and families who were left behind. Wives took on the role of head of household and chief provider in order to run their farms, homes, or other jobs so that their families could survive.  It was a time of great anxiety--of not knowing if a loved one were still alive or had become another victim of war. Debra Conner, local historian and first-person interpreter, will reveal how Americans dealt with the staggering losses that resulted from this bloodiest of all American wars. Conner is from Parkersburg, W.Va. and is also recognized as a first-person interpreter of Margaret Blennerhassett for the island special event series: “Brunch with Margaret.”
                        
March 4, 2012

THE 1811 VOYAGE OF THE NEW-ORLEANS – The American West’s First Steamboat
    In 1811, an unknown New York businessman named Nicholas Roosevelt did what many thought impossible: taking a steamboat down the Ohio and Mississippi rivers to New Orleans. Yet, the epic voyage of the New-Orleans, first steamboat to descend the Ohio and Mississippi rivers, changed the future of American civilization as well as the lives of its passengers and crew. Departing Pittsburgh in October 1811, the New-Orleans received enthusiastic welcomes at every port. Its voyage was accompanied by the Great Comet of 1811 streaking across the sky and by the New Madrid Earthquake, the greatest ever recorded east of the Mississippi. Dr. Larry DeBuhr is the speaker and represents the Rivers Institute at Hanover College, Hanover, Indiana.

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Late Season Hunting Opportunities

    SOUTH CHARLESTON, W.Va. – The late part of winter presents an often overlooked opportunity for hunting in the Mountain State, according to Jeff McCrady, district wildlife biologist for the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources office in Parkersburg. Rabbits, grouse, foxes, bobcats and raccoons are in season through the end of February.

    For many hunters, this is the most enjoyable time to be afield. “The holidays are long past, and people just seem to have more time to get out,” McCrady said.

    February can be a preferred time for serious rabbit hunters. There is less vegetation to obscure their vision, the ground is always damp enough to hold scent well and the weather is generally cool enough to keep the beagles from getting over heated.

    Grouse hunters like late season outings for the same reasons. The final weeks of February will be the last chance to hunt with the dogs until next fall.

    Raccoons are generally not very active during cold winter nights; however, a warm spell can change everything. As the winter begins to weaken and the days become longer, raccoons will become more active. Hunters should be vigilant through the end of the season.

    With prey being scarce in late winter, predators are generally more susceptible to varmint calls. The imitated distress cries of a rabbit or a mouse work well for foxes, bobcats and coyotes this time of year. Predators might be a little easier to call in during February, but hunters still need to be mindful of the wind and be well hidden in order to be successful.

    “With all of West Virginia's late season hunting opportunities, there is no reason for a case of cabin fever,” McCrady said. “Success can't be guaranteed, but fresh air and exercise can.”

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West Virginia 2012 travel guide now available

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – The 2012 West Virginia Official State Travel Guide has arrived and is available free by request or at Welcome Centers statewide, courtesy of the West Virginia Division of Tourism.

Travelers will find all the information they need at their fingertips. Shopping, dining, lodging, outdoor recreation and entertainment is conveniently arranged by travel region. The guide also contains a 2012 calendar of events occurring statewide.

“I’m happy to share the beauty of the Mountain State with visitors here and abroad,” Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin said. “We have so much to offer, from our beautiful state parks, to world-class skiing and whitewater rafting, to top-notch shopping and dining. Start planning your trip today and discover what makes West Virginia so wild and wonderful.”

The cover photo of this year’s edition was taken at Alpine Lake Resort in Preston County. The guide features interviews with famous West Virginians, a list of what’s new in West Virginia, articles on the new Boy Scout camp and the 150th anniversary of the Civil War, and much more.

The guide’s compact size makes it easy to carry in a backpack, glove box or saddlebags. In addition, smart phone users can gain immediate access to online information via QR codes on select ads.

The guide was published in cooperation with Miles Media Inc., which has produced the Official State Travel Guide since 2004. It was printed at Quad Graphics in Martinsburg. 

To request a free copy of the 2012 Official State Travel Guide, visit the West Virginia Division of Tourism online at www.wvtourism.com/travelguide or call 1-800-CALL WVA.

CONTACT: Andrea Bond
304-957-9347

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