All Activity

The Carnegie Classics Series presents Chopin! The Beautiful, with Barbara Nissman and special guests, on Saturday, May 17, at 7 p.m. Individual performance tickets are $25/adults. Thanks to the Carnegie Cardinal Fund, Greenbrier County Students attend for free, but still must reserve a seat.

Join Carnegie Hall for the Carnegie Hall Artwalk on Friday, May 9, from 5:30 to 7 p.m., featuring new exhibits by Kelly McQuain, Misty Murray Walkup, Tia Walkup, and Fred Hayes. The event will also feature live music, refreshments, and a cash bar. The Carnegie Hall Artwalk is free and open to the public.

Mainstage Performance on Saturday, May 3, at 7 p.m. featuring The McCrary Sisters. The McCrary Sisters sing gospel that melds traditional with contemporary and incorporates their influences of classic soul, Americana, blues, rock, and R&B music. Tickets are $35/adults. Enjoy Club Carnegie in the Board Room before the concert from 6 to 6:45 p.m. Free admission. Cash bar and snacks available.

Second Stage Performance on Thursday, May 1, at 7 p.m. featuring B-BAMS, a fun-loving musical quintet featuring talent from Alabama, Kentucky, New York, and West Virginia. The Second Stage Series takes place in the Old Stone Room and is first come first served seating. Tickets are $20/adult. Thanks to the Carnegie Cardinal Fund, Greenbrier County Students attend for free, but still must reserve a seat.

Special Performance on Sunday, April 27, at 3 p.m. (matinee) featuring Greenbrier Valley Chorale performing its Annual Spring Concert – Illuminare. Tickets are $17/adults and $7/students.

Appalachian Heritage Lecture Series presents Tunes & Tales – My Visits with West Virginia Fiddlers with Erynn Marshall and Carl Jones on Friday, April 18, at 7 p.m. Tickets are $20/adult. Thanks to the Carnegie Cardinal Fund, Greenbrier County Students attend for free, but still must reserve a seat.

A major accident on U.S. Route 219 near Maxwelton shut down the highway late Tuesday night after a two-vehicle collision left multiple people trapped and seriously injured. The incident occurred at approximately 10:58 p.m., prompting a rapid response from the Frankford Volunteer Fire Department, Station 120. Units responding from Frankford included Engine 120-01, Quick Attack 120-04, Brush 120-05, and Command 120-06. Due to the severity of the entrapments, mutual aid was requested from Lewisburg Fire Department, Company 20, to assist with extrication efforts. Firefighters from both departments worked quickly and efficiently, successfully extricating all individuals from the wreckage within 25 minutes of arrival. Emergency medical personnel from Fairlea, Alderson, and White Sulphur Springs EMS provided on-site triage and transportation of patients to nearby hospitals. Law enforcement officers from the Greenbrier County Sheriff's Department and the West Virginia State Police were also on scene, assisting with traffic control and securing the area. All emergency units cleared the scene by approximately 3:10 a.m. on April 17. U.S. 219 has since been reopened to normal traffic. However, as responders were actively working the initial crash, a secondary and highly dangerous incident occurred. Frankford Fire reported that a potentially intoxicated driver barreled through the crash site, bypassing six emergency vehicles with lights activated—including three police cruisers, two fire trucks, and a rollback tow truck—before crashing into the original accident scene. The individual’s reckless actions nearly resulted in multiple first responder injuries or fatalities. Quick response and defensive actions by firefighters and law enforcement prevented what could have been a catastrophic loss of life. The driver was immediately taken into custody at the scene and transported to Southern Regional Jail. “We normally don’t make posts like this, but with what occurred, we are sharing it with the public,” Frankford Volunteer Fire Department stated on social media. “This intoxicated individual came within inches and seconds of catastrophically changing multiple first responders' lives.” The department urged the public to take driving under the influence seriously. “If you need a drink, DON’T DRIVE. DO NOT be like this reckless individual because you will receive some shiny silver bracelets and an all-inclusive paid vacation at a secure state facility,” they added. Frankford VFD extended their thanks to all responding agencies and asked the community to keep those involved in their thoughts and prayers.

Carnegie Hall, Lewisburg’s annual Link Up program partners with Carnegie Hall, New York to offer Greenbrier County’s 5th grade students a once in a lifetime opportunity. Every year, Carnegie Hall (NY) Link Up shares educational expertise and resources with arts organizations and school districts around the world. Carnegie Hall (WV) and The Weill Music Institute of Carnegie Hall then collaborate to bring this exciting program to West Virginia schoolchildren. This year over 300 thousand students and teachers participated in the Link Up program. At the beginning of the school year, all elementary school music teachers participated in a professional development workshop taught by Carnegie Hall’s Education Director, Harmony Flora. Curriculum support materials are provided for students and teachers by CHNY’s Weill Music Institute, while Carnegie Hall in Lewisburg coordinates the program through Greenbrier County Schools. Using Link Up materials, 5th grade students engage in classroom activities to learn recorder, movement, and vocal pieces from a rotating curriculum, which concludes with a live concert each spring. Throughout the concert, the musical concepts that the students have studied during the year are demonstrated, and students are given the opportunity to play along with a live orchestra. This year’s concert took place on Thursday, April 3 and featured the newly formed Carnegie Hall Community Orchestra, featuring members of the West Virginia Symphony and the West Virginia Jazz Orchestra, along with student musicians from Eastern Greenbrier Middle School and Greenbrier East High School. GEHS Music instructor Jim Allder conducted, with assistance from Greenbrier County Superintendent Jeff Bryant. The Link Up program was ‘The Orchestra Swings’, a selection of upbeat pieces including “Duke’s Place” and “It Don’t Mean a Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing)” by Duke Ellington, “I Got Rhythm” by Geroge Gershwin, and “when the Saints Go Marching in.” Participating elementary schools included Alderson (Andrea Sloan), Crichton (Deidre Marshall), Frankford (Cassidy Hicks), Lewisburg (Amber Roehrig), Rainelle (Susan Simms), Ronceverte (Jeremy McClung), Rupert (Stephanie Boothe), Smoot (Stephanie Boothe), and White Sulphur Springs (Sarah Hann). Special thanks to Barbara Lutz, Preston Hedrik, and Susan Adkins who helped coordinate the performances. The Link Up program is funded by Greenbrier County Schools, Greenbrier County Commission, and the Carnegie Hall Guild.

Carnegie Hall’s 2025 Spring Classes & Workshops Series is in full bloom with three creative opportunities inviting locals and visitors alike to explore their artistic sides in small group settings. The lineup includes workshops in beaded bracelet weaving, stained-glass art, and Appalachian basketry, all held at Carnegie Hall’s studios in downtown Lewisburg. Josephine Knot Market Basket – Friday, April 25 | 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Kicking off the weekend of creativity is the Josephine Knot Market Basket workshop, part of Carnegie Hall’s Appalachian Heritage Series. Taught by artisan Kathy Talley, this full-day class introduces participants to basic basket weaving techniques to craft a functional market basket complete with a sturdy wooden handle and decorative Josephine knot. No experience is necessary, and all materials are provided. Cost: $125/members, $145/nonmembers, with scholarships available for Greenbrier County students and those aged 50+, who pay just $45. Stained-Glass 3D Hanging Basket – Saturday, April 26 | 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. Early Saturday morning, artist Lynda Weischowsky returns to Carnegie Hall to guide students through the process of making a Stained-Glass 3D Hanging Basket. Perfect for spring, this beginner-friendly class uses pre-cut glass and soldering techniques to build lifelike ivy vines in glass—no watering required. Participants will assemble their piece using lead came and wire wrapping techniques. Cost: $95/members, $105/nonmembers, with a reduced rate of $25 for students 18 and under. Beaded Bracelet Weaving on a Loom – Saturday, April 26 | 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Rounding out the weekend, Barbara Volk leads a hands-on class in Beaded Bracelet Weaving on a Loom. Held in the Potterfield Weaving Studio, students will learn the basics of loom beadwork as they design and create their own colorful bracelet using glass beads and graph paper. By the end of class, each participant will leave with a finished piece of jewelry and the skills to continue weaving on their own. Cost: $45/members, $55/nonmembers, with youth scholarships lowering the price to just $15. Each workshop is part of Carnegie Hall’s mission to foster lifelong learning and celebrate Appalachian heritage through the arts. All classes are held at Carnegie Hall, located at 611 Church Street, Lewisburg, WV. Scholarships are made possible through the Hall’s commitment to accessibility and community enrichment. For more information or to register, visit carnegiehallwv.org/classes-and-workshops or stop by Carnegie Hall for a brochure. You can also call 304-645-7917 with any questions. Carnegie Hall WV is a member-driven nonprofit organization supported by individual donations, grants, and fundraising events such as TOOT and the Carnegie Hall Gala.

Today, April 15, 2025, is the official deadline for most Americans to file their federal income tax returns. The IRS requires that returns be submitted by midnight local time. Those unable to meet this deadline can request an automatic six-month extension, giving them until October 15 to file. However, any taxes owed must still be paid by today to avoid penalties and interest. How to File or Extend Taxpayers can file their returns electronically through the IRS Free File program, available to individuals with an adjusted gross income up to $84,000 . To request an extension, individuals can submit Form 4868 electronically or by mail. It's important to note that an extension to file is not an extension to pay; estimated taxes should be paid by the April 15 deadline to avoid penalties. Disaster-Related Extensions Certain areas affected by federally declared disasters have been granted automatic extensions. For example, storm victims in North Carolina have until September 25, 2025, to file and pay taxes originally due on April 15 . Taxpayers in these regions do not need to file any additional paperwork to qualify for the extension. Refunds and Unclaimed Funds Taxpayers expecting a refund should file as soon as possible, as there's no penalty for late filing if a refund is due . Additionally, the IRS reports that over $1 billion in unclaimed refunds from the 2021 tax year remain. Eligible taxpayers must file by April 15, 2025, to claim these funds. Resources for Assistance For those needing help, the IRS offers several resources: IRS Free File: Available through October 20, 2025, for taxpayers with an adjusted gross income up to $84,000. IRS Direct File: Expanded to 25 states, providing free online filing for approximately 30 million taxpayers . Taxpayer Advocate Service: Offers guidance and assistance for resolving tax issues. For more information and to access these services, visit IRS.gov.

Landowners in West Virginia are invited to attend a free, two-day Wildlife Habitat Workshop designed to help them manage their land for the benefit of native wildlife. The event will be held at Wood Thrush Park, located at 334 Richland Lane in Lewisburg, on Friday, April 25 from 1 to 5 p.m., and Saturday, April 26 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The workshop is hosted by Appalachian Headwaters in partnership with the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (DNR), Appalachian Mountains Joint Venture, and Pheasants Forever. A social hour will take place Friday evening from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at The Humble Tomato in downtown Lewisburg. Lunch will be provided on Saturday for attendees. The workshop will offer landowners guidance from regional natural resource professionals. Topics include: Managing young and mature forests Improving pollinator and bird habitats Invasive species removal Understanding karst habitat Opportunities to monitor land as a citizen scientist The event is free and open to all West Virginia landowners, but registration is required by April 18. Participants can register using the QR code provided on the event flyer or by contacting Merri Collins at [email protected].

The Renick Community Center's annual Easter in the Park celebration was a joyful success this year, delighting families and children alike despite the brisk, early spring weather. Dozens of children gathered at the park with colorful baskets in hand, ready to hunt for Easter eggs and take part in games, crafts, and fun-filled activities. The laughter and excitement of the kids warmed the day, turning the chilly air into a backdrop for unforgettable memories. Organizers extended heartfelt thanks to the many parents and volunteers who helped make the event run smoothly. Special recognition was given to the Greenbrier East High School ROTC for their outstanding contributions and enthusiastic support throughout the day. The Renick Community Center continues to serve as a vibrant hub for local events, bringing people together and strengthening community bonds. More seasonal events are on the horizon, so residents are encouraged to stay connected and get involved.

Carnegie Hall presents The McCrary Sisters on Saturday, May 3, at 7 p.m. Guests are invited to come early to Club Carnegie from 6 – 6:45 p.m. in the Board Room located adjacent to the Hamilton Auditorium. A cash bar and snacks are available. The McCrary Sisters sing gospel that melds traditional with contemporary and incorporates their influences of classic soul, Americana, blues, rock, and R&B music. Central to their work and any show is their boundless joy in singing, and a desire to spread hope, love, healing (and dancing). Daughters of the late Rev. Samuel McCrary — a founding member of the legendary gospel quartet The Fairfield Four — Ann, Regina, Alfreda and Deborah grew up in Nashville surrounded by music, artists, community, and faith. The daughters were raised in harmony, singing at home and at their father’s church. In their formative years, the sisters had many accomplishments — individually and together — sharing in their family legacy performing with artists including Bob Dylan, Elvis, Isaac Hayes and Stevie Wonder. In 2011, the Sisters officially formed their own group, The McCrary Sisters, and have since recorded or performed with notable artists Delbert McClinton, Black Keys, Martina McBride, Eric Church, Patty Griffin, Buddy Miller, Jonny Lang, Robert Randolph, The Winans, Donnie McClurkin, Rosanne Cash, Carrie Underwood, Hank Williams Jr., Dr. John, Widespread Panic, Sheryl Crow, Maren Morris, Gregg Allman and many more. Their own recordings previous to these include a single "Amazing Grace" (2021), and albums A Very McCrary Christmas (2019), Live (2017), Let’s Go (2015), All The Way (2013), Our Journey (2011). Tickets are $35. Thanks to the Carnegie Cardinal Fund, Greenbrier County Students attend for free, but still must reserve a seat. Discounts are available for Carnegie Hall members, senior citizens, and military. To purchase tickets, call Carnegie Hall Box Office at 304.645.7917, visit www.carnegiehallwv.org, or stop by at 611 Church Street, Lewisburg, West Virginia. Carnegie Hall Box Office is open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Carnegie Hall WV is a nonprofit organization supported by individual contributions, grants, and fundraising efforts such as TOOT and The Carnegie Hall Gala. The Hall is located at 611 Church Street, Lewisburg, WV. For more information, please call 304.645.7917 or visit www.carnegiehallwv.org.

Carnegie Hall presents its last Second Stage Series Concert with B-BAMS on Thursday, May 1, at 7 p.m. in the Old Stone Room. Guests are invited to come early for the Second Stage Lounge from 6 – 6:45 p.m. A cash bar and snacks will be available. Together for over 20 years, B-BAMS is a fun-loving musical quintet featuring talent from Alabama, Kentucky, New York, and West Virginia. How did these folks manage to become a group? Bob and Mary met in West Virginia in 2000 through a community choir and through a church choir. Bob (guitar) and Mary (piano) met Alex (cello) in 2002 when he was attending the WV School of Osteopathic Medicine. They become good friends and musical companions (Alex also joined the church choir). In 2004 Alex married Sarah (violin) and they became BAMS. In 2007, Bryan (vocals) moved to WV, and they discovered “the voice from Alabama heaven,” completing the B-BAMS group. Their lives have taken them in many directions, but they always find time throughout the year to enjoy each other’s company and musical talents. For their show at Carnegie Hall, listeners are invited to sit back and enjoy some of their favorite tunes by artists John Prine, James Taylor, Van Morrison, The Beatles, Travis Tritt, Casting Crowns, Garth Brooks, and Jackson Browne (to name a few). The Second Stage Series consists of five special events that take place in the Old Stone Room located on the ground floor of the Hall. The intimate setting creates a “speak easy” vibe with an eclectic line-up of entertainment. Seating is general admission. Concerts are moved to the Hamilton Auditorium if demand is high. Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for students. Thanks to the Carnegie Cardinal Fund, Greenbrier County Students attend for free, but still must reserve a seat. Tickets may be purchased by visiting www.carnegiehallwv.org, calling 304.645.7917, or stopping by the box office at 611 Church Street, Lewisburg, WV. Discounted Second Stage Series Subscriptions are also available through the box office. Carnegie Hall WV is a nonprofit organization supported by individual contributions, grants, and fundraising efforts such as TOOT and The Carnegie Hall Gala. The Hall is located at 611 Church Street, Lewisburg, WV. For more information, please call 304.645.7917 or visit www.carnegiehallwv.org.

Most people in this area know of the story about the lion cub, born in Alderson during a visit by a circus, raised and who roamed free on the streets until he frightened a visitor. The Town Council then passed an ordinance requiring that all lions be on a leash. Alderson Main Street is holding its Second Annual Lion Days from April 12-19 with many lion themed activities planned during Spring Break week so students and parents will find it easier to attend. Businesses and restaurants have been encouraged to have lion themed sales and food items during this time. A local favorite is the “Lion Club” sandwich which can be found at Jessie’s Market. Residents have been encouraged to decorate with a lion theme. On Tuesday, April 15 at 2:00 pm at the Alderson Opportunity Center (old cafeteria building) at 277 Elmwood Avenue, there will be Lion Mural Painting for Kids. All supplies will be provided free by Alderson Main Street and the event is under the guidance of Cheryl Mansley. Pre-registration is required in order to have enough materials. Please contact Cheryl Mansley at 304-702-0554 or [email protected]. On Wednesday, April 16 at 2:00 pm there will be a free performance of Always Keep Your Lion on a Leash, a play from the Greenbrier Valley Theatre at the cafetorium of the Alderson Elementary School. Please enter the front of the school on Chestnut Avenue. This original play was written by Dorothy Jo Oberfoell, Education Director at GVT. Puppet Palooza, a puppet making workshop, will take place after the play. Copies of the new novel, Lion on a Leash, by Charles Ryan will be available for sale at this event. This is a fictionalized account of French, the Alderson lion, and people who surrounded him throughout his life. The 11th volume of the Alderson History Highlights and Tantalizing Tidbits “French, the Friendly Lion” by Belinda Anderson will also be available for sale. On Saturday, April 19, from 4:30-5:30, the kids who painted lion murals will be able to pick them up at the Historic 1896 C&O Depot. From 6-7:30 pm, the monthly Writer’s Station will be held with an Open Mic for original written material. Cheryl Mansley will be reading excerpts from Ryan’s book, Always Keep Your Lion on a Leash, which will again be for sale along with Anderson’s French, the Friendly Lion. Alderson Main Street President Don Sutherland said, “We are excited to see the growth of “Lion Days” this year with a play and two publications telling the lion story. Please join us to learn more and have some fun!”

The Greenbrier County Republican Club gathered for its regular monthly meeting Thursday evening, April 3, at 6:30 PM, with a full agenda that ranged from new state laws on food safety and gender identity to growing concerns about geoengineering and foreign land ownership. The meeting was called to order by Club President Brentz Thompson, followed by an invocation led by Mindy Fuchs and the Pledge of Allegiance by Frank Tuckwiller. Minutes from the previous meeting were approved without amendment. Treasurer’s Report: Strong Fundraising Success Allie Smith, joining by phone, delivered the treasurer’s report. The Club’s recent dinner was a notable success, raising: 141 tickets sold: $7,050 Ad sales: $3,800 (with $500 still outstanding) Donations: $1,500 Total income: $12,350 Expenses included: Dutch Haus catering: $5,555 Postnet printing & materials: $680 In-kind donations: $232.97 After expenses, the Club earned a net income of $6,115, with $500 in ad revenue still expected. As of March 31, the Club’s bank balance stood at $11,772.23. Legislation Updates: Banning Harmful Food Additives & Defining Gender Brentz Thompson provided an update on two recently signed state bills: House Bill 2354, which prohibits certain food dyes and additives linked to health concerns. These dyes must be removed from school meals by August 1, 2025, and from all food sold in West Virginia by January 1, 2027. The bill mirrors bans already in place in parts of Europe. Senate Bill 456, which redefines male and female identity in West Virginia law based on biological sex at birth. The bill becomes effective June 9, 2025, and applies to gender-specific spaces like restrooms and locker rooms. Discussion also touched on Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin, who has vetoed 158 bills this year, earning him the nickname “Veto Corleone.” Geoengineering Awareness: Club Members Launch Clean Air Initiative One of the evening’s main topics was a growing concern over geoengineering and so-called “chemtrails.” Members of the Club have formed a new group, West Virginians for Clean Air, aimed at educating the public about materials being introduced into the atmosphere under the banner of weather modification. The discussion noted that Tennessee passed legislation in 2024 to ban chemical aerial spraying. Although similar bills introduced in West Virginia this year did not make it out of committee, supporters said the issue will return next session with broader support. To raise public awareness, the group will sponsor a free screening of the documentary “The Dimming” at 6:30 PM on Thursday, April 24 at The Clingman Center in downtown Lewisburg. Seating is limited to 150 attendees. Other Business: Property Ownership and Scholarship Efforts David Fuchs raised a concern about foreign ownership of West Virginia land, particularly by Chinese nationals. Trey Holland explained that current law prohibits individuals on the federal watch list from purchasing tax-delinquent property, but noted it doesn't prevent private purchases. Club members discussed the potential for new legislation modeled after laws passed in Missouri and other states. An update on the Club’s scholarship fund revealed ongoing challenges in locating a Republican-affiliated attorney willing to form a 501(c)(3) nonprofit at no cost. The Club currently operates as a 501(c)(4), which does not allow for tax-deductible donations. Public Engagement Concerns Members also expressed frustration over the elimination of public comment during the first reading of state bills. Concerns were raised about the transparency of the legislative process and the lack of opportunities for citizens to provide real-time feedback. Closing The meeting concluded with a group singing of “God Bless America,” followed by adjournment. The next meeting of the Greenbrier County Republican Club is scheduled for Thursday, May 1, 2025, at 6:30 PM at Cook’s Country Kitchen. Attendees are encouraged to come early for dinner and fellowship.

One of the most thrilling and beloved events at the State Fair of West Virginia is back! Mark your calendars—the Buckin’ B Bull Ride returns on Saturday, August 9, 2025, as part of the State Fair’s 100th anniversary celebration. Known for its adrenaline-pumping action and crowd-pleasing excitement, the Buckin’ B Bull Ride has become a staple attraction for fairgoers young and old. From high-flying rodeo action to edge-of-your-seat moments, this event never fails to deliver. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at statefairofwv.com/events. With the centennial celebration expected to draw record-breaking crowds, fans are encouraged to grab their tickets early! Date: Saturday, August 9, 2025 Location: The State Fair of West Virginia, Fairlea, WV Celebrating: 100 Years of State Fair Tradition Don’t miss your chance to experience one of the most iconic bull riding events in the region as part of this historic fair. Whether you're a rodeo regular or a first-timer, the Buckin' B Bull Ride promises an unforgettable evening of heart-pounding action! Follow along with updates and fair highlights using #sfwv and #sfwv100 on social media.

Carnegie Hall is seeking volunteers to assist with the 32nd Annual Carnegie Kids' College during the weeks of July 7-11, and July 14-18, 2025. This year’s Kids' College will be a unique opportunity for rising Kindergarten – 7th grade students to expand their artistic and scientific horizons in a safe and nurturing environment. Volunteers will assist teaching artists in classes such as pottery, origami, baking, basket weaving, painting, archeology, music, and more. It is preferable that volunteers are able to commit to at least one full session for the entire week. This means that volunteers should be available each morning (8:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.) for one week, or every afternoon (12:45 - 4:15 p.m.) for one week. Placement is first-come, first-served and may be influenced by instructor requests and enrollment factors. Adults or youth entering 9th grade and above may sign up by visiting carnegiehallwv.org or https://fs26.formsite.com/6usHp2/qbvt6rnrag/index. 2025 Kids’ College registration will be available in May. For any questions or more information, contact Education Director Harmony Flora at (304) 645-7917 or [email protected]. Carnegie Hall WV is a nonprofit organization supported by individual contributions, grants, and fundraising efforts such as TOOT and The Carnegie Hall Gala. The Hall is located at 611 Church Street, Lewisburg, WV.

MetroNews, The Voice of West Virginia, along with MetroNews TV, is proud to announce the expansion of its MetroNews Midday lineup with two new affiliates, bringing the show to even more listeners across the Mountain State. WVOW 1290 AM in Logan began broadcasting MetroNews Midday presented by Salango Law on Thursday at noon. Starting Monday, listeners in Greenbrier County will also be able to tune in on News Talk 97.3 FM and 1310 AM WSLW in Ronceverte. Anchored by veteran broadcaster Amanda Barren, the program delivers a comprehensive noon news hour featuring both MetroNews updates and national headlines. In addition to timely news coverage, the show includes in-depth interviews with state and national figures. Amanda is joined by Logan native Dave Allen, who brings decades of radio experience, insightful commentary, and engaging guest segments. The show offers a statewide platform for audience interaction and discussion on both local and national issues. The news conversation continues after the noon broadcast with Open Line West Virginia, airing in the third hour starting at 2:30 p.m. Amanda Barren, the main anchor at Nexstar’s WOWK-TV and host of Tonight Live—a statewide program aired on Nexstar’s West Virginia and D.C. stations—brings over 20 years of broadcast experience, much of it in West Virginia. “I am honored to come work alongside a team that I hold in such high regard,” Amanda said. Co-host Dave Allen has worked in West Virginia radio for nearly four decades. A graduate of Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College and Marshall University, Allen currently hosts 580 Live on WCHS Radio in Charleston and can be heard on several WVRC Media stations throughout the state. He has been a part of the WVRC Media family since 2020. MetroNews Midday will be available on most MetroNews radio stations statewide. The program is proudly presented by Salango Law. For more information, visit salangolaw.com. Listeners are encouraged to tune in for the latest headlines, expert commentary, and thoughtful discussions shaping West Virginia and beyond.

Carnegie Hall, working in partnership with Greenbrier County music and theatre educators, presented the Second Annual One Night Only Showcase on Thursday, March 13, at 7 p.m. The yearly concert is a performance opportunity for accomplished music students in grades 6-12 living or taking lessons in the Greenbrier Valley. The showcase took place in Carnegie Hall’s Hamilton Auditorium Stage and was sponsored by David and Jennifer Webb. The One Night Only Showcase featured over 45 students who were juried in by video entries for solo performers and ensembles. Carnegie Hall received over 40 submissions, with the top 22 acts being selected to perform. Video entries included everything from solo piano performers and vocalists to horn players, guitarists, and full rock bands. “Encouraging music lessons for kids is an investment in their creativity, their confidence, and our future,” states Carnegie Hall Education Director Harmony Flora. “Through music, they learn not just to sing or play an instrument, but to express themselves, to collaborate, and to find personal fulfillment in the arts. Through perseverance and ‘practice, practice, practice’, every note played onstage at One Night Only echoed the hard work and dedication of these incredible students.” She adds, “Thanks to the ongoing support of our area’s music educators and the students’ families, this showcase allows us the opportunity to celebrate their individual musical journeys and the amazing talent they continue to nurture. We look forward to many years of celebrating this exciting production at Carnegie Hall.” Performers include Ellie Burns, Ella Butler, Georgia Craft, Theo Crowell, Ezra Dick, Payden Grizzel, Keean Hedrick, Alexus Hill, Lydia Jackson, Noah Lewis, Lucia Lipton, Asa Marks, Sal Marks, Christian Montgomery, Ava Tilden, Isaac Tincher, Emma Vincent, Nathaniel Vincent, Arabella Webb, The Honeydrops, and Second Block Rock (two groups). One Night Only was also assisted by Greenbrier East High School student stage/tech crew member, Preston Hedrick and special guest emcee from Greenbrier West High School Seamus Holliday. Special thanks to: Sally Bray, Bill Clapham, Harmony Flora, Birch Graves, Gibbs Kinderman, Mary Leb, Michael Lipton, Aamed Solomon, Dorothy Jo Oberfoell, Cathy Rennard, Cathy Sawyer, Jim Allder, and all Greenbrier County music instructors and classroom teachers that encouraged students to participate. Carnegie Hall WV is a member-driven nonprofit organization supported by individual contributions, grants, and fundraising efforts such as TOOT and The Carnegie Hall Gala.

Carnegie Hall’s March/April ArtWalk Exhibits continue with three galleries showcasing the works of regional artists. The Museum Gallery (adjacent to the Hamilton Auditorium) features “Character Studies: Still Life Paintings” by Ellen Fischer. Ellen was awarded an MFA in painting from the Art Institute of Chicago in 1981 and a BFA in painting and printmaking from Herron School of Art (Indianapolis, Indiana) in 1978. In the summer of 1978, she attended Skowhegan School of Painting and Sculpture (Skowhegan, Maine) on scholarship. She worked as a curator of fine art in two small museums over a period of twelve years and operated a fine art gallery for contemporary glass artist Harvey Littleton for over ten years. She has been a freelance writer about art and artists for Vero Beach (Florida) Magazine and Vero Beach 32963/Vero News. As a painter, she portrays the people and landscape of her home in and around Ronceverte, WV. She is also known for her still life paintings, which to Ellen is more than handsome parlor pictures of fruit and flowers. Like her landscape and figural paintings, her still life paintings are part of her ongoing autobiography writ small, of places she has experienced and people she knows. They are objects that have found themselves on the worktable in her studio, gifts from friends, purchases from junk stores, arranged to form a tableau from an unknown story. Her still life objects have lives of their own. This animistic view of tabletop things of metal, wood, clay, glass, and other materials - including the traditional “dead” fruit - is her own, but she suspects it is shared by others, too. The Carnegie Hall ArtWalk is free and offers visitors the opportunity to explore a wide variety of original works by local and regional artists, all set in a world-class historical venue. The current exhibits are open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. and run through the end of April. 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.

Carnegie Hall’s Appalachian Heritage Lecture Series presents Tunes & Tales - My Visits With West Virginia Fiddlers with Erynn Marshall and Carl Jones Friday, April 18, at 7 p.m. Guests are invited to come early to Club Carnegie from 6 – 6:45 p.m. A cash bar and snacks will be available. Erynn Marshall and Carl Jones are old-time musicians and inspired tunesmiths from Hillsville, Virginia. They are married - in life and music. They sing southern song-duets and play powerful fiddle, guitar, mandolin, and banjo tunes. Erynn Marshall is known internationally for her traditional music. She learned the nuances of Appalachian old-time fiddling from visiting elder, southern fiddlers and through her love of archival recordings. She wrote a book called "Music In The Air Somewhere: West Virginia's Fiddle & Song Traditions (WVU Press 2006). Erynn was the first woman to win 1st place fiddle at Clifftop (The Appalachian Stringband Festival) among other awards and is featured in the 2023 exhibit, "Women of Old-Time Music," at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum (Bristol, VA). Erynn has numerous recordings, is featured in five films, three books, and is coordinator for Swannanoa Old-Time & Dance Week (NC). Erynn’s husband Carl Jones is an American songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. Born in Macon, Georgia, he studied music near Muscle Shoals, Alabama and was influenced by seeing recording sessions of Roy Orbison, Steve Goodman, and Mac Macanally. Carl is widely respected for his instrumental talents and original songs about the joys and tribulations of day-to-day life in the South. His songs have been recorded by The Nashville Bluegrass Band, Kate Campbell, Rickie Simpkins with Tony Rice, and others. His song “Last Time On The Road” was on the grammy-award-winning album Unleased by the Nashville Bluegrass Band. In the 1980’s he played mandolin with James Bryan, Norman and Nancy Blake as part of the Rising Fawn String Ensemble. Carl is known for his fine musicianship, charismatic teaching, sense of humor, and powerful songwriting. They have won many awards for their playing and performed in Canada, Europe, Australia and China. They have 17 recordings between them including the Old-Time Sweethearts project (produced by Marshall/Eddy) featuring 12 old-time music couples from across the US. Tickets are $20 and may be purchased by calling Carnegie Hall Box Office at 304.645.7917, visiting www.carnegiehallwv.org, or stopping by at 611 Church Street, Lewisburg, West Virginia. Carnegie Hall Box Office is open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Carnegie Hall WV is a member-driven nonprofit organization supported by individual contributions, grants, and fundraising efforts such as TOOT and The Carnegie Hall Gala. The Hall is located at 611 Church Street, Lewisburg, WV. For more information, please call 304.645.7917 or visit www.carnegiehallwv.org.

Carnegie Hall, a leading advocate for arts education, is proud to announce youth and adult scholarship funding for their Spring 2025 Classes and Workshops series. Thanks to generous support from The Cardinal Fund and the James F.B. Peyton Family Trust, these scholarships provide the opportunity for students to develop their artistic skills, explore new creative techniques, and expand their artistic horizons through reduced or no-cost registrations for a variety of heritage and emerging craft traditions. Scholarships are open to all students under 18 years of age and over 50, offering community members the chance to learn from experienced instructors and work with state-of-the-art materials and tools. “We believe that every person should have access to the transformative power of art,” said Harmony Flora, Education Director for Carnegie Hall. “These scholarships aim to provide students with the opportunity to cultivate their artistic abilities and grow in their craft, regardless of financial circumstances. Art has the power to inspire, empower, and open doors to new opportunities, and we are thrilled to help students explore the wonderful world of the arts through our programming at Carnegie Hall” Classes and Workshops with automatic scholarship funding include Woodturning 101 with the WV Woodturners Assoc., Stained Glass Hanging Baskets with Instructor Lynda Weischowsky, the Adirondack Pack Basket and Josephine Knot Market Basket classes with Kathy Talley, Shrubs and Switchels with Jan Darrah, Beginner Fiddle with Dennis Ott, Afterschool Glass Mosaics with Theresa Filzen and 2D Art for Kids with Merideth Young, Tapestry Weaving with Barbara Volk, Hawk Tail Whisk Brooms with Brenda Harman and The Art of Fencing with Dr. Russell Amundson. For a complete list of classes and workshops and to enroll visit carnegiehallwv.org/classes-and-workshops or pick up a Classes & Workshops brochure at 611 Church Street, Lewisburg, West Virginia. Carnegie Hall WV is a member-driven nonprofit organization supported by individual contributions, grants, and fundraising efforts such as TOOT and The Carnegie Hall Gala. The Hall is located at 611 Church Street, Lewisburg, WV. For more information, please call 304.645.7917 or visit www.carnegiehallwv.org.

Wildlife Habitat Workshop for Landowners Held at Appalachian Headwaters 334 Richland Lane, Lewisburg WV 24901 Friday April 25th, 1PM-5PM and Saturday April 26th, 9AM-3PM Social Hour to follow at Humble Tomato in Lewisburg, on Friday April 25th, 5:30-7PM Lunch Provided on Saturday Join regional natural resources professionals for a FREE 2-day workshop at Appalachian Headwaters to assist landowners like you, with wildlife conservation, habitat management, and habitat improvement projects on your land. If you want to learn how to manage native wildlife habitat on your land, understand local resources available to you, start monitoring your land as a citizen scientist, and/or speak directly with regional experts who can help advise your efforts, this workshop is for you! Topics covered will include managing mature and young forests, improving pollinator and bird habitats, invasive species removal, understanding karst habitat, and more. This workshop is open to any landowner, but to attend this workshop, you must register! Please use the QR Code, or the link: HERE You can contact Merri, at [email protected] for Questions.

On March 12, 2025, at the Culture Center in Charleston, Dr. Mary Montgomery Lindquist received an award as a History Hero of West Virginia from the Archives and History Commission. She was nominated by the Greenbrier Historical Society where she has been a board member for more than 10 years. She was recognized for her leadership and participation on various committees and is currently a member of the Membership, Education, and Home Tour Committees. Al Emch, President of the Greenbrier Historical Society, said, “It is an honor to work with Mary to preserve local history. She is an outstanding partner in this effort.” After graduating from Greenbrier College for Women, Lindquist continued her college at UNC in Chapel Hill, where many Greenbrier College students went through the years, then received a MA in mathematics at Southern Methodist University and later a PhD from the University of Madison. In between, she taught junior high in Maryland, college at Mary Washington College, and high school in Rome, Italy. She remained active in many organizations over the years and served as president of the National Council of Mathematics Education, the largest mathematics teacher organization. She served many years on the mathematics item development of National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), and on TIMSS from the rebirth of international mathematics assessment in the early 90s until 2024. Mary and her husband Paul fell in love with each other and with renovating old houses. They returned to Lewisburg in 2004 and renovated her family home, Montwell. It was the home that her parents, John and Edith Montgomery, restored in the 1940s and is one of the oldest brick homes in Lewisburg. The house was often the site of teas for the college students. Later they redid the Hunter House (their 14th house), which was used for Greenbrier College faculty housing in the late 60s but had fallen into great disrepair when the state received the property after the college closed. The Lindquists have followed the tradition of opening Montwell to guests. It has frequently been available for tours and she and Paul have hosted many fundraisers and private dinners to further the cause of historic preservation in the area. Margaret Hambrick, Secretary of the Greenbrier Historical Society, said, “Having attended many of the events at Montwell, I know there are no more gracious hosts than Mary and Paul.”