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Christmas in July

Preparation for Christmas comes early for the WOW! Factory — an art studio that specializes in painting pottery, clay, mosaic, glass fusing, etc. — as two “Christmas in July” events are being held this week.  “Christmas in July” is an event that the WOW! Factory has hosted ...

Benefit concert aids early detection efforts at WVU Cancer Institute held in memory of late music lover

Mountain State native Tonie Renner Gentile had a lifelong passion for music that endured through her brief battle with breast cancer.   Following her death at 52, her family is celebrating her memory with a Morgantown benefit concert that will aid early detection efforts led by the WVU Cancer Institute.   The Friday concert at Mylan Park’s Mon County Center features country acts Cooper Crossing, Wyatt Turner and Haley and the Hard Way. Doors open at 6 p.m., with music beginning at 6:30 p.m.   Proceeds benefit the WVU Department of Cancer Prevention ...

The Bingen School of Music provides classical music education for local students

Twelfth-century abbess Hildegard of Bingen was a woman ahead of her time. Her extensive writings on the topics of science, medicine, poetry and philosophy reveal a sharp intellect and artistic soul.  She was also a composer of sacred music, producing works with vivid lyrics and rich melodies that have fascinated modern scholars since her rediscovery in the 20th century. Hildegard inspires many, including Ross Semler, the founder of The Bingen School of Music  in Morgantown.   Through his work as the director of sacred music at St. John University Parish,  ...

‘Twisters’ is fun on the surface but misses the mark

When “Twister” released in 1996, I went to my local theater to see it. I got a popcorn and a Coke and sat one row from the back so I could really enjoy the surround sound that had recently been upgraded.   I had an amazing time, so much so that I went to see it again the very next day. Unfortunately, maybe back-to-back viewings weren’t great for an eventual critic because, on a rewatch, it didn’t hold up particularly well.   Still, the movie was fun, and despite some of my problems with it, I still think it was a good time. But that did leave me slightly wary ...

Appalachian Youth Livestock Showcase had over 250 exhibitors this year from all over the East Coast

The third annual Appalachian Youth Livestock Showcase (AYLS), a four-species jackpot show, had an estimated 250 exhibitors this year — all  showing off their pigs, goats, lambs and cattle.   The show is hosted by the Preston County Livestock Association and chaired by Natalie Phillips and Samantha Stone. There is an extensive committee that works all year to ensure all details are covered.   Stone said the event takes many volunteers and much manpower to pull off turning the Craig Civic Center into a top-notch indoor show arena. She said the show ...