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    Greenbrier Journal News Articles
    • Politics & Opinions

      The Greenbrier County Republican Club gathered for its regular monthly meeting this week, featuring an in-depth legislative recap from Delegate Ray Canterbury and updates on upcoming club initiatives, including plans for the State Fair and a new scholarship fund.
      The meeting opened with prayer in observance of the National Day of Prayer, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. The Treasurer’s Report was delivered, showing a current balance of $11,773.20, including recent deposits and interest.
      Legislative Reflections from Delegate Ray Canterbury
      The evening’s keynote was former and current Delegate Ray Canterbury, who provided an insightful breakdown of the most recent legislative session. He described the atmosphere as somewhat chaotic compared to past years, attributing the shift to diminished camaraderie among legislators, Senate fragmentation, and limited outreach from the new Governor.
      Despite this, Canterbury praised the House for passing the budget on time — a rare accomplishment — and highlighted several key pieces of legislation:
      The micro-grid bill, which lays the groundwork for AI data centers in West Virginia, potentially generating $160 million in annual tax revenue, with 30% benefiting host counties and 10% shared statewide.
      Social agenda bills, including the Riley Gaines Act prohibiting biological males from competing in female sports, and restrictions on puberty blockers.
      Pro-life legislation, including the West Virginia Mothers and Babies Pregnancy Support Program.
      A bill prohibiting classroom cell phone use.
      A firearms protection bill, barring discrimination against the firearms industry by financial institutions.
      He also noted failed or blocked bills he influenced, including:
      Senate Bill 748, which would have added a 1% sales tax outside municipalities. Canterbury argued it unfairly subsidized urban centers like Lewisburg at the expense of rural shoppers.
      A proposed call for a constitutional convention, which he warned could be dominated by populous states and go off the rails without safeguards.
      The Governor’s vaccine bill, which failed after Republican delegates, including Canterbury, opposed it following constituent feedback.
      He also raised concerns about West Virginia’s rising debt burden, now nearing $12 billion when including state-backed agencies. He stressed the importance of better debt oversight and called for increased fiscal responsibility.
      State Fair Booth and Volunteer Drive
      Club members voted to continue hosting a Republican booth at the State Fair of West Virginia. Despite increased costs — now $575 for 10 days, plus $85 for insurance — members agreed it was a valuable outreach effort. Last year, the booth required 42 worker tickets and relied on many volunteers. Organizers are seeking even more volunteers this year, especially for shifts from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
      Discussion also touched on concerns from other political groups at the fair, including Democrats who reportedly felt intimidated. Club leaders stressed that their booth remained respectful and constructive.
      Launching a Republican Scholarship Fund
      Members approved moving forward with incorporating a charitable scholarship fund, allowing tax-deductible contributions to support Republican-minded students. A committee will finalize eligibility criteria, with early suggestions favoring children or grandchildren of club members and alignment with Republican values. The effort will cost approximately $400 to establish, including legal fees and state registration.
      Additional Reports and Updates
      The club reviewed the impact of national politics on Canadian elections, criticizing President Biden's remarks about Canada potentially becoming the 51st state.
      A representative from the West Virginia Department of Agriculture highlighted programs like SNAP Stretch, West Virginia Grown, and methane recapture projects, while urging support for better labs and rural food systems.
      Historical commentary was provided on McDowell County’s hospital system, linking past investments to present-day healthcare challenges.
      The meeting concluded with members standing to sing “God Bless America,” affirming the club's patriotic spirit and shared mission.
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    • Politics & Opinions

      The Greenbrier County Democratic Women’s Club, in partnership with the Greater Greenbrier Valley Indivisible, will hold a May Day rally on Thursday, May 1st, from 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM. The event will take place at the Green Space adjacent to Lewisburg City Hall.
      Organizers say the rally is being held in honor of International Workers' Day, a date recognized globally in commemoration of the 1886 labor strikes in Chicago, where workers demanded an eight-hour workday—a movement that became a defining moment in labor history.
      The rally will focus on supporting workers’ rights both in the United States and around the world. Organizers are calling attention to issues including the protection of public healthcare programs like Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security; full funding for public schools; and support for farmers and rural communities.
      “We are rallying because our lives, our families, our public schools, and our healthcare are worth fighting for,” the event notice states.
      In addition to advocating for working families, the groups plan to speak out against the concentration of wealth and influence among billionaires, and to oppose attacks on immigrants and minority communities.
      The rally is described as peaceful and non-violent. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own handmade signs, though additional signs will be available.
      Organizers invite all members of the community to attend and bring friends, emphasizing solidarity and civic engagement as key themes of the event.
      For more details, contact the Greenbrier County Democratic Women’s Club or Greater Greenbrier Valley Indivisible.
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    • Education News

      Residents of Greenbrier County are invited to a special documentary screening on Wednesday evening that organizers say raises urgent questions about atmospheric science, public health, and government transparency. The film, The Dimming, will be shown at the Clingman Center in Lewisburg at 6:30 p.m. on April 24, hosted by the group West Virginians for Clean Air.
      The event, promoted with the provocative question “What’s going on???” in reference to unusual cloud formations, seeks to raise awareness about the theory of stratospheric aerosol injection—an alleged practice in which particles are dispersed into the upper atmosphere for purposes such as climate modification or solar radiation management.
      According to Robert M. Johnston, M.D., a local resident and representative of West Virginians for Clean Air, The Dimming provides documentation and analysis that challenges mainstream narratives about “contrails” and so-called “geoengineering.”
      “This film is part of a global movement to expose and halt the deployment of climate manipulation technologies that many believe are already underway,” said Dr. Johnston in a message to media. “We encourage everyone to come out and make up their own minds about what they see overhead and how it may be affecting our environment and health.”
      Produced by Dane Wigington of GeoengineeringWatch.org, the documentary presents expert interviews, satellite imagery, and atmospheric data in support of claims that governments and private entities may be engaged in covert weather modification programs. The film has drawn both passionate support and strong criticism, with some in the scientific community warning that such claims can misrepresent or misunderstand legitimate atmospheric research and aviation activity.
      The screening is free to attend, and donations are appreciated. Organizers also promise additional informational materials and encourage attendees to ask questions and participate in a community discussion following the film.
      For more information, visit westvirginiansforcleanair.com or the national site at geoengineeringwatch.org.
       
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    • Entertainment News

      As spring arrives and summer quickly approaches, many will be looking for places to travel, especially for summertime holidays, and others will be looking for a perfect gift for Mom this Mother’s Day. If you are planning, or are interested in planning, any features on where to visit for Mother’s Day, or an ultimate gift idea for Mom, please consider The Greenbrier resort.
      Mother’s Day was founded in Grafton, West Virginia, on May 10, 1908, and the Mountain State still provides the perfect place to celebrate mothers today. Whether it’s a mom, grandmother, stepmom, mother-in-law or simply someone who fills the motherly role in one’s life, The Greenbrier is the perfect way to show that person just how much they mean.
      The Greenbrier’s annual Mother’s Day Brunch is planned for May 11 from 11am until 1pm, and it features a fresh fruit and smoothie display, a bakeshop, soup, salad bar, made-to-order pancakes and omelets, breakfast specialties like bacon, sausage and crab frittata, lunch specialties like chicken kabsa, shrimp and sausage creole and mushroom and pork ragout, action stations with lamb, turkey and beef tenderloin and, of course, desserts as sweet as Mom.
      But food isn’t the only way one can show appreciation to Mom during your visit to The Greenbrier. Take advantage of the Summertime Package during those dates and receive a daily buffet breakfast in the Main Dining Room and a $100 resort spending credit per night during your stay.
      Treat Mom to services at The Greenbrier Mineral Spa, voted one of the best in the United States, or let her experience an unforgettable activity such as a carriage ride, yoga, golf, tennis, falconry, horseback riding or glass blowing. Make Mom an appointment at Studio G for hair and makeup services to enhance her beauty.
      There’s no better place to celebrate Mom than America’s Resort, and I hope this is something you will consider sharing your audience. If you need any other information, including pictures, interviews, quotes, fact sheets, or whatever you might need to bring this story to life, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
      Thanks for your time and consideration of this possible story. Have a wonderful week.
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    • Local News

      The beloved Alderson 4th of July Celebration will carry on this summer with a few key changes, as town officials announce an updated parade route due to necessary repairs on the historic Memorial Bridge.
      In a notice posted online, organizers shared that the parade will not cross into the Monroe County side of town this year. Instead, the route will continue along Riverview Avenue, remaining entirely on the Greenbrier County side. This change ensures the safety of participants and spectators while preserving the longstanding holiday tradition.
      The parade's Quiet Zone—an area with reduced noise levels for young children, elderly residents, and those sensitive to loud sounds—has also been adjusted. The new Quiet Zone stretches from Virginia Street to North Monroe Street, and is marked in blue on the official event map.
      Residents and visitors are encouraged to arrive early to find a good viewing spot and to be mindful of the revised route when planning their day. Despite the detour, Alderson’s Fourth of July festivities are expected to deliver the same small-town charm and patriotic spirit that have made it one of the region’s most treasured events.
      More updates, including event schedules, fireworks information, and entertainment announcements, are expected in the coming days. Stay tuned to local news and Alderson’s official channels for the latest.
      For more information or to volunteer, visit the Alderson 4th of July Celebration Facebook page or contact town hall.
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    • Entertainment News

      The Greenbrier Concours d’Elegance, presented by Ferrari of Washington, returns to America’s Resort, The Greenbrier, May 2-4, 2025. Now in its eighth year, the annual celebration of the automobile and its rich history at The Greenbrier has grown to become one of the most anticipated automotive events on the calendar and is known as the Owners’ Concours for its relaxed atmosphere and convenience for the owners.
      The festivities begin on Friday, May 2, with the sold-out Summit Drive. Presented by Bentley, Washington, D.C., more than 60 cars will drive to The Summit Lodge at The Greenbrier Sporting Club for breakfast, before setting out for a spirited drive on the scenic back roads of West Virginia and Virginia. The drive will take participants from The Greenbrier to the Paint Bank General Store in Paint Bank, Virginia.
      After a short stop to explore, the drive will then go through Gap Mills and Union, West Virginia, and eventually traveling through historic Lewisburg, on the way to Smooth Ambler Spirits in Maxwelton. There, participants will have lunch and explore the distillery, and the incredible bourbon produced in Greenbrier County.
      Friday’s schedule also includes the sold-out Welcome Reception at The Greenbrier’s outdoor pool, where car owners, judges, sponsors, event organizers and others will come together to kick off the weekend.
      Saturday morning, May 3, Cars & Cocktails invites all car owners and clubs to show their vehicles around the iconic springhouse and the golf clubhouse. Cars of any make and age are welcome, and awards are handed out to the top 25 cars. Food and beverage vendors will be set up throughout the show field, and entertainment will be provided by Berglund Automotive throughout the day, making for a festive atmosphere.
      Limited spots are still available to showcase your car, and the $25 entry fee includes a custom Ole Smoky Moonshine t-shirt and a swag bag. To register, visit https://www.greenbrierconcours.com/cars-and-cocktails.html.
      Spectators can see the cars and participate in the festivities of Cars & Cocktails free of charge from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Parking is available at the Train Station, across the street from The Greenbrier’s main entrance. Shuttles will transport spectators between the parking lot and the show field.
      Saturday at 3 p.m., The Greenbrier Theatre is the spot for a complimentary automotive discussion, featuring renowned automotive author, historian and curator, Ken Gross.
      Saturday wraps up with the Kentucky Derby Party and Charitable Dinner from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tickets are still available and open to anyone for this memorable evening, which includes a pre-race cocktail hour, the Kentucky Derby on big screen televisions, a dinner featuring favorites from The Greenbrier and live entertainment.
      The party will also include a silent auction to raise money for The Greenbrier Concours d’Elegance Charitable partners, the AACA Library and Research Center, West Virginia Autism Training Center and First Responders Children’s Foundation. To purchase tickets, visit https://www.greenbrierconcours.com/kentucky-derby-party-and-charitable-dinner.html.
      The final event of the weekend is the Sunday Concours on May 4 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Close to 100 of the finest collector cars in the world will be on display in front of The Greenbrier’s iconic front entrance and evaluated in 11 different categories by a team of qualified judges. This year, the classes include a featured Ferrari Class, Veteran Cars, Cars of the Classic Era, Personal Luxury Cars, Early Foreign Sports Cars, Late Foreign Sports Cars, American Sports Cars, Muscle Cars, Future Classics, Not Necessarily for the Road and Motorcycles. Car owners come from 16 different states and travel from as far away as Canada, Massachusetts and Delaware to be a part of the show. 
      Thanks to presenting sponsor Ferrari of Washington, spectators can view the cars and experience the day free of charge. Parking is available at the Train Station, with shuttle service to the show field.
      To learn more, visit GreenbrierConcours.com.
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    • Entertainment News

      It’s time to unleash your inner style icon—with a sustainable twist! The highly anticipated West Virginia Sustainable Fashion Show returns this Saturday, April 26, 2025, at 5 p.m. at the historic Lewis Theater in downtown Lewisburg.
      This year’s theme, "Foraging," invites guests and designers alike to explore the natural world and their own creativity. Think wildflowers, repurposed fabrics, garden finds, and thrift store treasures—anything that tells a story of style through sustainability. And yes, there’s even a prize for the best-dressed guest, so it’s time to get imaginative with what’s already in your closet (or compost bin)!
      Expect an evening packed with inspiration, innovation, and impact:
      Runway fashion show featuring eco-friendly designs from visionary Appalachian artists and makers
      Keynote speaker Lynda Grose, sustainable fashion pioneer and co-author of Fashion and Sustainability: Design for Change
      Live music, locally sourced refreshments, and a bubbly toast to sustainability
      A vibrant silent auction and raffle, spotlighting handcrafted items and gift certificates from regional artisans and businesses
      Awards for standout runway designs—and of course, the highly coveted Best-Dressed Guest title!
      Tickets:
      $25 Early Bird (available through April 20)
      $35 General Admission (starting April 21 and at the door)
      Tickets are available now at WVSustainableFashion.com or at the door the day of the event.
      Want to support the cause in style? Sponsorships start at $100 and include event tickets. Proceeds benefit Blue Skies Ahead, a local Get-Out-The-Vote initiative aimed at empowering communities through civic engagement.
      Whether you're a fashion lover, eco-warrior, or curious creative, this is one spring event you won’t want to miss. Come celebrate sustainability, community, and the power of second chances—one fabulous outfit at a time.
      See you on the runway!
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    • Entertainment News

      Carnegie Hall invites the community to the Carnegie Hall Artwalk on Friday, May 9, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. ArtWalk events at Carnegie Hall are free and offer visitors the opportunity to explore a wide variety of original works by local and regional artists, all set in a world-class historical venue.
      Visitors are encouraged to immerse themselves in the arts while enjoying live music by John Maddy, complimentary light refreshments, and a cash bar. Each exhibit rotation features creative collaborations and three separate galleries showcasing unique work in multiple mediums, ranging from contemporary portraits in oil to heirloom level craft arts.
      The Lobby Gallery will feature Kelly McQuain, a writer, artist and college professor who grew up in West Virginia and now lives in Philadelphia. As an artist, McQuain’s work has appeared in comics, book covers, illustrations and fine art.
      The Old Stone Room will showcase the work of Fred Hays. Frederick Hays is an award-winning artist known for his innovative use of light and color to illuminate and define space to capture contrasting perspectives. As a native of West Virginia, his paintings reflect the history and culture of rural Appalachia as well as the dynamics of nature and life experiences.
      Misty Murray-Walkup and Tia Walkup will present an art exhibit in the Museum Gallery. Misty Murray-Walkup is a self-taught artist and illustrator with over 30 years of experience. A lifelong resident of Greenbrier County, WV, she has a passion for realism. Her favorite subject is animals, especially wildlife. Tia Walkup is from Crichton, WV, received a master’s degree of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) at Marshall University, and now lives in Huntington, WV.
      The exhibits run through the end of June and are free and open to the public, Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. For more information, please visit carnegiehallwv.org, call (304) 645-7917, or stop by the Hall at 611 Church Street, Lewisburg, WV.
      Carnegie Hall programs are presented with financial assistance through a grant from the West Virginia Department of Arts, Culture and History and the National Endowment for the Arts, with approval from the West Virginia Commission on the Arts.
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    • Entertainment News

      Pianist Barbara Nissman returns to Carnegie Hall on Saturday, May 17, at 7 p.m., for “Chopin, the Beautiful, the final concert in this season’s Carnegie Classics series. Barbara will be joined by five-musician friends, all members of the West Virginia Symphony Orchestra, for a chamber performance of Chopin’s Second Piano Concerto for piano and string quintet.
      This is the third successful season of Carnegie Classics, a three-part concert series, hosted by Steinway “legend” and recent 2023 West Virginia Music Hall of Fame inductee, Barbara Nissman and designed to introduce classical music to new audiences, as well as inspiring and entertaining all music enthusiasts. 
      Barbara combines great music with informal chat and takes us on a magical voyage.  Nissman invites the listener to travel with her to explore the composers’ world. She makes listening easy and music meaningful, as she shares her joy and passion for her composer “friends” and their great masterworks with all of us. No education is required— just a set of ears to listen and an open heart to receive the joys of music!
      The final concert Chopin, the Beautiful! begins with Barbara’s introduction to some of Chopin’s popular melodies that many of us already might know and concludes with the chamber performance of his Second Piano Concerto. Chopin was only 19 years old when he wrote this masterpiece. He arranged it for piano and string quintet so he himself could play it with several musician friends in the elegant living rooms of his Parisian patrons. Barbara will be joined by five West Virginian musicians for this special premiere performance. She will also share with us some scenes from Chopin’s life and his beautiful music.
      “What a joy for me to perform for friends on the beautiful Steinway at our wonderful Carnegie Hall! exclaims Nissman. “With this series we are expanding the audience for classical music, and it is so gratifying for me to share with my community the music that I love so much. We all need more joy in our lives these days, and music has the power to transport us into a magical world. Celebrate with me the beauty of Chopin’s music and let your heart open wide to embrace the joy!”
      A “West Virginian by choice,” Barbara Nissman moved to a farm in Greenbrier County in 1989. A member of the inaugural class of “12 Steinway Legends” chosen from over a century of Steinway Artists, Nissman is celebrated as “one of the last pianists in the grand Romantic tradition of Liszt, Rachmaninoff, and Rubinstein.” Nissman’s career was launched by conductor Eugene Ormandy, and she has performed with major orchestras on nearly every continent. Her recordings of Liszt, Prokofiev and Ginastera are considered “definitive.” Also, in demand as a writer, lecturer, guest artist and clinician worldwide, her music lecture series, "Barbara & Friends," was carried on the BBC. She performed with Don Henley and Billy Joel at a fundraiser at Jazz at Lincoln Center and at the Kennedy Center’s 25th Anniversary Gala. Since 2002, she has been involved with the Robert James Frascino AIDS Foundation, raising more than $2 million dollars for AIDS organizations worldwide. Recently Barbara returned to Amsterdam to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Prinsengracht concerts that she helped initiate.  She holds the Governor's Lifetime Achievement in the Arts Award from the State of West Virginia and was awarded an honorary Doctorate from West Virginia University in 2024. For more information, go to www.barbaranissman.com 
      Tickets are $25/adults. Thanks to the Carnegie Cardinal Fund, Greenbrier County Students attend for free, but still must reserve a seat. 
      For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.carnegiehallwv.org, call 304.645-7917, or stop by 611 Church Street, Lewisburg, WV.
       
      The Carnegie Classics Series is made possible with support from the James F.B. Peyton Fund, the National Endowment for the Arts and the West Virginia Division of Culture and History, with approval from the West Virginia Commission on the Arts. Additional funding is also provided by Eugene and Annie Jeffus.
       
      Carnegie Hall WV is a nonprofit organization supported by individual contributions, grants, and fundraising efforts such as TOOT and The Carnegie Hall Gala. 
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    • Church News

      Easter Sunday was joyfully observed across Greenbrier County as churches, families, and neighbors came together to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ—a central event in Christian faith symbolizing renewal, hope, and eternal life.
      Local churches opened their doors early, with sunrise services held outdoors in some locations to greet the morning light. Worshippers gathered in fellowship, singing hymns and listening to sermons focused on the message of resurrection, forgiveness, and new beginnings.
      Inside sanctuaries, Easter lilies lined the altars, symbolizing purity and the promise of life after death. Many pastors spoke about overcoming adversity and the importance of hope in challenging times, reminding congregants that Easter is a time to reflect on the power of grace and redemption.
      After services, families took part in traditional Easter activities such as egg hunts, shared meals, and visits with relatives. Community groups and volunteers organized local egg hunts, giving children the chance to search for brightly colored eggs filled with candy and small toys. These events provided an opportunity for neighbors to reconnect, and for children to enjoy the excitement of the holiday.
      In homes throughout the county, Easter dinners brought loved ones together over home-cooked meals, prayer, and conversation. For many, the holiday was not only a spiritual observance but also a cherished time to be with family and friends.
      Beyond the festivities, some residents chose to spend the day in service—donating to food pantries, delivering meals, or visiting those who might otherwise be alone. These acts of kindness reflected the deeper meaning of Easter: compassion, renewal, and the power of community.
      As spring blooms throughout the Greenbrier Valley, the spirit of Easter continues to shine—a reminder that no matter how long the winter, the promise of new life always returns.
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