Pimp My WV

Did U Know ??

2008-12-09T17:23:00.002-05:00

This is a continuation of our regular series blog posting of a “Did U Know” message to help us all be a little more knowledgeable about the environment and sustainability in our communities.

Sustainability Quiz

Turning off the water while you brush your teeth saves enough water every minute to fill:

A: 8 milk cartons (4 gallons)

B: 22 coke cans (2 gallons)

C: 1 bathtub (52 gallons)

D: 1 milk carton (1 gallon)

Test your green-smarts by finding the answer below.

Did you know that? – answer to the Sustainability quiz:

Answer: A (8 milk cartons/4 gallons): Water is one of our most precious limited resources. Try to conserve it whenever you can!

Did U Know ??

2008-12-02T14:03:00.005-05:00

This is a continuation of our regular series blog posting of a “Did U Know” message to help us all be a little more knowledgeable about the environment and sustainability in our communities.

Sustainability Quiz
Which of the following takes up one-fifth of all the energy used in an average home?
A: Lighting
B: Television
C: Computers
D: Parenting

Test your green-smarts by finding the answer below.

Did you know that? – answer to the Sustainability quiz:
Answer:
A: Lighting - If every household in America changed just one light bulb to an energy efficient one, together we’d be saving enough power to light 7 million homes.

Did U Know ?

2008-11-25T15:36:00.000-05:00

This is a continuation of our regular series blog posting of a “Did U Know” message to help us all be a little more knowledgeable about the environment and sustainability in our communities.

Sustainability Quiz

How much of the bottled water we buy actually comes from the tap?
A: None
B: 3%
C: 40%
D: 10%

Did you know that? – answer to the Sustainability quiz:

Answer: C - 40% - With prices as high as $10 per gallon, bottled water can cost four times as much as gasoline. Think about purchasing a water filter instead for your household tapwater.

2008-11-24T14:27:00.007-05:00

Guest Blogger Sonia Simone, founder of Remarkable Communication and associate editor at Copyblogger. gives us words to tweet and blog by.....

The Ten Commandments of New Social Media

A lot of people new to social media wonder if there are any rules, and if so, what are they? You’ll be glad to know that yes, this frontier isn’t quite as wild as it looks. Even in these relatively early days, there’s a healthy set of conventions, laws and norms. Just like the original ten, these won’t keep you out of every kind of trouble, but they cover the big stuff pretty well.

Commandment #1: Thou Shalt Participate in the ConversationThe conversation is going to take place with you or without you. The 21st century has no patience with cowards. Opting out is not an option, so get in there and participate.

Commandment #2: Thou Shalt Not LieNothing will sink you faster in the wired world than lying and all its variants. It’s too easy to compare stories, and too easy for your attempted coverups to get leaked. Don’t tell two conflicting stories in two different media. Don’t say you’re one thing when you know that your actions tell an entirely different story. Don’t tell lies of omission. And . .

Commandment #3: Thou Shalt Not AstroturfSee Commandment #2. Don’t try to engineer conversation or use fake characters to advocate for you. I guarantee you will get caught, and your credibility will take a beating you may never get over. Creating a space for conversation is good. Creating sock puppets is bad.

Commandment # 4: Thou Shalt Talk Like a Human BeingCorporations don’t hold conversations. Enterprises don’t hold conversations. Entities don’t hold conversations. Conversations take place among people. Be a person.

Commandment #5: Remember Thy Community and Keep It HolyIt’s not an audience of passive recipients of your message. It’s a community made up of a complicated mix of personalities. The community has its own needs and its own imperatives. Take care of your community.

Commandment #6: Thou Shalt Not Be a WimpBullies have been a factor in every social group that has ever existed. The anonymity of the Internet gives bullies an extra measure of courage. You must face bullies down every time you encounter them, clearly and forcefully.

Don’t let bully-wrangling turn you into an aggressive butthead yourself. And don’t be a hall monitor, waggling your finger and quoting rules. (Or commandments!) Instead, see #5: be a citizen who values civility and defends it on behalf of your community.

Commandment #7: Thou Shalt Not SnivelYou’re going to get beat up every once in awhile. Never, ever whine about it.

Commandment #8: Thou Shalt Write What Is Worth ReadingTypos aren’t necessarily a big problem, although you notice you never see one on Copyblogger, Problogger or Seth’s Blog. Vague, weak, or meaningless writing is a big problem. Write clearly and with vigor. Cut out every line of corporate doublespeak. If you don’t know how to do that, subscribe to Copyblogger, read it faithfully, and put their advice into practice daily.

Commandment #9: Thou Shalt Not Pontificate About Stuff Thou Knowest Nothing AboutYou will get caught and mocked and that’s just embarrassing.

Commandment #10: Thou Shalt Have a Sense of HumorIt’s just people, and people are pretty much the funniest thing ever. Nothing will serve you online as well as a sense of humor, especially about yourself.

This is a great compilation of things to do and NOT to do for today's social media world and those of us who struggle to live in it.

special thanks again to Sonia Simone, founder of Remarkable Communication and associate editor at Copyblogger.

Public Relations and being Social in today's economic downturn

2008-11-19T09:41:00.005-05:00

Most will agree it's going to be tough for the next 12 months or so for public relations and most anything connected to marketing budgets. But there are unique distinctions that can help PR stand out from other tactics.

Conventional wisdom is that all companies cut their communications and marketing budgets during a downturn. This will undoubtedly lead to a tough time for PR practitioners. While this is true to an extent for those who are part of and deal with major corporations, there are a lot of businesses that continue to grow in a downturn. Especially those who can operate efficiently and thrive without the necessary big budgets.

This downturn gives public relations practitioners a great opportunity to let people know that PR can be an affordable way to market one's goods or services. A solid PR plan can offer efficiencies in comparison to other types of marketing. A simple reason ad firms might struggle in a downturn is because their model relies on commissions from a total advertising spend. When ad budgets go down, their revenues fall. In contrast, a good PR plan often doesn't rely on the purchase of any expensive supplemental service or product, which means that PR firms have the flexibility to work with a wider range of budgets.

Not to mention, the use of social media as part of a campaign. This is the new buzz dealing with blogs, facebook, myspace, linkedin, Twitter, and many more. Public Relations practitioners are a perfect match to excel in this new opportunity of promotions. And the best thing is, social media campaigns do not require alot of monetary investment. Another reason that PR has the chance to shine during hard economic times.

You might say, 'alot of people are using social media, not just PR people.' That is definitely true. There are some top of the line social media experts that don't even practice public relations (Mike Volpe with HubSpot, Chris Brogan with CrossTech Media, Skip Lineburg with Maple Creative, Justin Seibert with Direct Online Marketing, etc.). But PR's true foundaton of communication and sharing of knowledge with the public is what makes it a perfect fit for industry professionals. PR people are already delivering messages and spreading the word, social media just gives them more outlets to use and a broader audience to impact.

Charleston could lose 2009 Regatta

2008-11-18T08:51:00.003-05:00

Reports are out that Charleston Mayor Danny Jones suggested that the 2009 Regatta be canceled, unless sponsors step forward to help pay for the event. Mayor Jones says sponsors are lacking for the event next year.

Jones says private sponsors would have to come up with at least $350,000 in order to save the 2009 Charleston Regatta. He stated, in 2008, the event lost $100,000.

Charleston's Sternwheel Regatta has been an annual riverfront tradition in the city since 1971. Thousands of people have come every year to enjoy live entertainment and other activities.

So if anyone has any spare change laying around, send it to Charleston to save Regatta 2009.

We gotta Regatta - but first we gotta get $350 grand....

Simple ways to cut fat and calories in holiday favorites

2008-11-14T14:58:00.004-05:00

A little something for all of us with this fast approaching holiday season. I know we, especially in WV, love to enjoy our holiday buffets of delectible goodness. Maybe these tips will help in the holiday preparation and instead of watching some football, maybe you can get a pickup game started in the back yard.

Use two egg whites instead of one whole egg.

Try dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, dates, plums) in place of nuts.

Replace baking chocolate with three tablespoons of cocoa powder and one tablespoon of canola oil.

Reduce the amount of sugar in baked goods by one-quarter to one-half.

Use evaporated skim milk in recipes that call for whipping cream.

Substitute an equal amount of applesauce for at least half the oil in muffins, brownies, or quick breads like banana bread or cranberry bread.

Use low-fat yogurt or cottage cheese instead of mayonnaise and sour cream in dips.

Cook stuffing with chicken or vegetable stock instead of oil, butter, or margarine.

Top casseroles with almonds instead of fried onion rings.

Choose reduced-fat cheeses for salads and casseroles.

Make a low-fat crust for pumpkin pie with 1 cup of Grape Nuts ® and ¼ cup apple juice concentrate.

source: American Dietetic Association, www.eatright.org

Byrd stepping down as Appropriations Committee chairman

2008-11-07T15:02:00.003-05:00

This might not be so good for WV's share of the federal dollars that flow into our state for economic and community development projects. What do you think?

By Paul J. Nyden
Staff writer of the Charleston Gazette

U.S. Sen. Robert C. Byrd announced today that he will step down as chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee as of Jan. 6.
First elected to the Senate in 1958, Byrd is the longest-serving senator in American history. He chaired the powerful Appropriations Committee, which doles out projects across the country, for 10 years.

In a news release, Byrd said he decided to step down "only after much personal soul searching, and after being sure of the substantial Democratic pickup of seats in the Senate.
"I am now confident that stepping aside as chairman will not adversely impact my home state of West Virginia," he said.

Over the years, Byrd played a critical role in sending money back to the Mountain State -- more than $1 billion since 1995. That money funded university medical centers, paved highways, expanded airports and built dams to control floods. Dozens of projects around the state bear his name because of the money he helped get to build them.

Last week, the Washington Web site Politico.com reported that Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid was looking to move Byrd, 90, out of the Appropriations Committee chairmanship.
Byrd reacted angrily, as he had with similar reports previously. "I am disappointed that, according to press accounts, the Majority Leader is talking to others about the chairmanship of the Senate Appropriations Committee,'' he said in a statement released by his office. "This is the sort of Washington back-room gossip which ill serves the Democratic Party in a year when Democratic unity should be paramount.''

On Friday, Byrd said he hopes to continue serving on the Appropriations Committee and chairing its Homeland Security Subcommittee. "I have been blessed to have had the honor to represent the people of West Virginia in the United States Senate for 50 years. I have been honored to lead the Senate as its majority leader for 12 years," he said.

"To be serving in the Senate at such a momentous time in our history fills me with enormous pride," Byrd said. "I endorsed President-elect Obama because I believed that we had taken the wrong course both at home and abroad. I am delighted with his victory."

Sen. Daniel Inouye, D-Hawaii, will replace Byrd as Appropriations Committee chairman.
Inouye, Byrd said, "has stood in line for many years and now his time has come. He is my friend. He is a genuine American hero. He will be a skillful and fair chairman of the Appropriations Committee because he is a man of outstanding character and great wisdom.

"To everything there is a season and a time for every purpose under heaven," Byrd said, quoting Ecclesiastes. "I thank the people of West Virginia for continuing to put their faith in me. I thank God for the long life He has granted me and for the opportunity He has given me to assist this great country through long service in this magnificent institution, the United States Senate."

-but I'm sure Sen. Inouye won't be sending $1 billion dollars our way anytime soon....
Senator Byrd you have done WV a great service in your longstanding dedication and support of our state.

Do U Know?

2008-11-07T13:53:00.003-05:00

This is a continuation of our regular series blog posting of a “Did U Know” message to help us all be a little more knowledgeable about the environment and sustainability in our communities.

Sustainability
How many tons of waste materials were diverted away from disposal in 2005 through recycling and composting?
A: 79 million tons B: 20 million tons C: 15 million tons D: 7 million tons

scroll down for the answer

Did you know that? – answer to the Sustainability quiz:
Answer: A - 79 million tons - Recycling a ton of waste has twice the economic impact of burying it in the ground. The global recycling industry today employs more than 1.5 million people and is valued at $160 billion.

Do U Know?

2008-10-31T15:29:00.001-04:00

This is the next entry into our regular series blog posting of a “Did U Know” message to help us all be a little more knowledgeable about the environment and sustainability in our communities.

Sustainability Nationwide, organic sales are growing at _____ percent every year.
A: 5%
B: 7%
C: 10%
D: 18%

scroll down for the answer

Did you know that? – answer to the Sustainability quiz:
Answer: D – Green business is booming! Help keep the momentum going.

2008-10-28T13:16:00.001-04:00

Geography is no longer an obstacle. Blogging, microblogging, instant messaging, webcasting, etc. have made instantaneous communication the norm in today’s world, even more than the telephone did.

What do you think?

Combating the Common Cold

2008-10-21T14:28:00.001-04:00

Two of the most common over-the-counter supplements for colds are vitamin C and echinacea. Whether they work is a matter of debate. In a study published earlier this year in "Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology," hospital volunteers were tested to see if taking daily echinacea during the winter months would reduce the symptoms of respiratory tract infections compared with symptoms in volunteers taking placebos.

The group that took echinacea daily reported several sick days per person in an eight-week period; the group that took the placebo reported more sick days per person during the same period. The researchers were unable to conclude whether the difference was due to anything more than chance because of the small number of participants.

Similarly, no conclusive evidence has been published indicating that taking vitamin C supplements will reduce the frequency or duration of cold symptoms. Still, "treatment" with either echinacea or vitamin C is generally harmless, so I don't argue with my patients who swear by the effectiveness of these supplements.

But all it really takes is a little attention. If you focus on what I call the "4H" approach, you'll be able to prevent and treat a cold:

Hand-washing. Conscientiously washing your hands after exposure to anyone with a cold will reduce your chances of being infected.

Hydrate. Drink plenty of fluids. Your body loses fluid as a result of fever that may accompany an infection. Cold viruses cause your body to produce excess phlegm, and drinking water will help keep that phlegm from thickening and drying out.

Heat. A fever is nature's way of making your body inhospitable to intruders, so resting in bed and staying warm with blankets can help Mother Nature help you.

Help. Acetaminophen and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents ease muscle aches and pains as well as sore throats; antihistamines help decrease drainage in nasal passages; mucus-thinning agents reduce the thickening and buildup of phlegm; and decongestants work to keep the sinuses more open. Talk with your doctor about the right medicine for your needs.

from USA Weekend Oct 3-5, 2008 edition. http://www.usaweekend.com. Tedd Mitchell, M.D., president and CEO of Dallas' Cooper Clinic, writes HealthSmart every week.

Do U Know ?

2008-10-17T15:26:00.001-04:00

Do U Know

This is the next entry into our regular series blog posting of a “Did U Know” message to help us all be a little more knowledgeable about the environment and sustainability in our communities.

Sustainability Quiz: By recycling your newspaper everyday, you are having the same positive effect on the environment as_____. A: Planting 6 trees B: Driving 300 miles less per year C: Removing 245 lbs of CO2 from the atmosphere D: All of the above

scroll down for the answer

Did you know that? – answer to the Sustainability quiz: Answer: D – At 70%, newspaper’s recycling rate is the highest of all paper products in the U.S.

Do U Know

2008-09-23T17:28:00.000-04:00

This will be a regular series blog posting of a “Did U Know” message to help us all be a little more knowledgeable about the environment and sustainability in our communities.

Sustainability Quiz

What is the fastest-growing source of electricity in the USA?
A: Solar energy
B: Coal
C: Natural gas
D: Wind energy

scroll down for the answer

Did you know that -

The answer to the Sustainability quiz:
Answer:D - At 5-8 cents per kilowatt hour, wind energy is the most cost-effective

Creative Communities and the New Economy

2008-09-22T16:31:00.000-04:00

Today’s economy getting worse and the future is looking grim. Compared to what once was - where the US was the global economic leader, companies and manufacturing were thriving, and the wage earning potential was strong.

Today, a far different tale is being heard from the economic leaders and analysts. Manufacturing is down and the economy is struggling. What will the future hold? West Virginia is not waiting to find out. We are building on a new emerging economy and spurring creative growth. One example is the Create WV Conference chaired by Jeff James, Creative Communities Team, A Vision Shared.

More than 250 West Virginians responded to a vision and attended the first Create WV Conference in 2007. Since then, the creative spark has led to new energy and activity in communities across the state, from Huntington to Hinton, from Wheeling to Welch.

This year at the second annual Create WV Conference, communities that have developed their own creative vision and are acting on it will be celebrated. These communities of creative thinkers are taking matters into their own hands and forming plans for their own creative communities.

Many people share this vision. Creative communities can be described as those communities that take ownership over their own future. It is a group of people who come together to creatively solve problems and identify unique opportunities. These people are action oriented, entrepreneurial and take risks for a better future. They embrace new economy principles to succeed in today’s globally connected marketplace.

This West Virginia initiative is part of a larger global debate on the role of creative communities, or the creative class, and its relation to growth in the new economy.

The concept of the creative class was popularized by the research and writings of Richard Florida, Ph.D., who as a professor at Carnegie Mellon University published The Rise of the Creative Class and The Flight of the Creative Class. The book A Whole New Mind by Daniel H. Pink, has championed the belief that we are already moving into the Conceptual Age, in contrasts to the prior Information and Industrial Ages. One of reasons the creative economy/society is different from the industrial and agricultural economies is that it relies on a resource (creativity), that every single human being has.

What do you think is possible for WV? When you think of the state’s future - and your future - what do you see?

Tips for starting your social media platform

2008-09-16T16:57:00.001-04:00

Things to consider when implementing your social media platform. Be it an account on Twitter or a blog. Here are ideas for starting out, things to support your efforts with, writing ideas, and next steps.

•If you’re blogging, make that a home base for all your other social media efforts.

•Pick three social networks to join based on where your target audience might be (blogging, facebook, twitter, etc.). Three might sound like too few, but it probably will be too many.

•It is important to think about your posting schedule and subject matter. Try to regularly post at least once or twice a week.

•Subscribe to 10 or more blogs similar to yours, including similar content blogs, and any industry blogs.

•In writing of your posts, be human, and write a human-sounding profile. Use a human-seeming profile picture.

•After you’ve written your first blog post, take time to comment on some of those 10 blogs, but NOT about your first post.

•Make sure it’s easy for people to subscribe to your blog, via a reader, RSS feed, or via email. This will alert them of new content postings and keep them coming back for more.

•For whatever reason, graphics in posts improve audience.

•Consider a nice clean theme for your blog’s design. There are many free themes for different blogs, and some inexpensive ones.

•Seek out opportunities to guest post on popular blogs in your area of interest. Don’t be spammy and over-link to your own site/posts. Add value to their topic.

•On social networks, look for ways to contribute, even when it’s not directly related to your interests or expertise.

•Build relationships outside of having a specific need. Social media is all about making and sustaining connections.

•To create consistent content, read daily, and not just in your area of interest. Skim, synthesize, and post.

•Riff off other blog posts you like, and add some value beyond linking back to those original posts (and always link back to those posts).

•To help with content development, ask your audience what they need, what they’re struggling with.

•Invite your audience to guest post and give feedback where appropriate.

•Remember to comment on other people’s blogs frequently, and show your participation in the communities where you have presence.

www.chrisbrogan.com, http://www.4hoteliers.com/4hots_fshw.php?mwi=3222, Chris Brogan.

World's Strongest Man Crowned

2008-09-15T11:53:00.000-04:00

If anyone was able to go to Appalachian Power Park on Sunday evening to watch the finals of the world's strongest man competition - you were not dissapointed! The crowd of over 4,000 was electric. The competitors fed off of that energy and put on an amazing show right up until the last second.

Mariusz Pudzianowski of Poland took home a historic fifth World's Strongest Man title. He bested American Derek Poundstone in the final heat in none other than the Atlas Stones event. All ten finalists successfully lifted the five Atlas Stones in five dual heats.

Pudzianowski, looked up after lifting the last stone, to see Poundstone still struggling to get his stone onto the tower. The Pole then fell to his knees in front of the competition stage after winning the title. Poundstone, a police officer from Connecticut, took second place overall.

What an awesome two week event for WV, for Charleston, for the fans, and the international competitors who were overheard many times praising Charleston's hospitality and supportiveness.

Be sure to tune in to ESPN in late December to catch the broadcast of the 2008 Met-RX World's Strongest Man Competition.

Being Social in Today's Media

2008-09-12T08:48:00.000-04:00

There has been a great increase in the popularity of social media websites in the past few years. Social media networking has taken off throughout the world. It helps people to share ideas, take a stand on a subject, or just get something off of their chest.

What is Social Media?
The first thing you need to know is a definition of what social media actually is. A very basic definition of social media is “a group of tools and sites that let you easily create and share content online.” The key word in this definition is share. Too often, people will focus on publishing or distributing something new, and miss the whole point in the sharing of social media. Social media is about conversations. Which conversation you want to take part in is up to you. But no matter what - join the conversation.

By nature we are a social communicating society. From the time of cavemen drawing on walls to communicate, up to today. Using social media can frame you as an expert in your field of interest. People can ask you questions, you can answer them and hopefully teach them something new. Nearly every social media site makes it possible to connect with other people (that’s why they call it social media). If you are not connecting to people, then no one is finding you. Social media is also about making and sustaining connections. The only way you can grow your influence is long term. If you do not like the fact that it takes time, don’t do it at all.

People use social media sites to share useful content. If you go into social media hoping to roll out something new, something that isn’t useful and interesting to people visiting your site, you are not tapping into what social media was created to do. Publishing and distributing involve one-way channels - pushing things out to the public. Social media was not designed to push things out to users, but to make it easier for them to communicate and share things. Whenever you use social media for something it was not intended to do, you not only miss the boat, you also take the chance of “angering the natives.” People do not like when they feel pushed into something, and that is exactly what you are doing when you start trying to push something using social media.

The best way to use social media is to give more than you receive. If you provide something that is both useful and informative to a social media site, those who use it will praise it. This is how you make friends and expand your reach in social media. When users find something they like, they share it with others. The more they share the useful thing that you have provided, the more people that you bring to your site (www.websiteoffice.com, Blackburn).

In today’s highly connected and Internet wired world, people that ignore social media do so at their peril. "Five of the top 10 web sites are social media. You need to go where the people are," said Rob Key, CEO of Converseon, a social media marketing agency (www.converseon.com).

Take Baby Steps
People should start out small in social media. Be patient with your progress. This is an emerging media. Put your energies into one area rather than spread yourself too thin among many web sites. "Unless you are a social media specialist that spends eight hours tweeting and blogging for your job, then social media is not something you are going to do as one of 10 things for the day," said Todd Beane, Marketing Specialist and Douglass Institute resident social media guru. "But you need to be involved. If you don't have that much time, pick one online social community that entertains you and makes you happy in the process of participating."

A good way to start out in the social media world is to start a personal blog about your interests. Once the blog is operational, you will learn first hand what it feels like to develop content, manage comments, and seek promotion. Branch out your social media reach by starting a community group on Facebook, MySpace, or LinkedIn around the topics where your target audience will congregate. Remember that the people on social networks are all people, have likely been there a while, might know each other, and know that you’re new. Tread gently into new territories. Don’t NOT go. Just go gently. Don’t be afraid to fail. Be ready to apologize. Admit when you’ve made a mistake (www.chrisbrogan.com, Brogan).

For some FREE expert advice, find a bunch of bloggers and podcasters whose work you admire, and ask them for opinions on your social media projects. Just remember people power social media. Believe in the value of people. They are real human beings or had to start in social media sometime too.

Strongman 2008 Success

2008-09-11T10:26:00.000-04:00

If you haven't had the chance to witness one of the strongman competitions in Charleston last weekend, there is one more chance to get in on the action. The finals will be held this weekend Sept 12-14 in and around Charleston.

The success of this world-wide competition is overwhelming. Charleston, and WV as a whole, were lucky to have had this opportunity. I think we have made the best of it. While at the competitions and in the local newspapers, the film crew, competitors, and fans have nothing but the best to say of the host city and our great state!

Let's go Big Phil!

Brazil in the Hills or maybe Morocco in the Mountains

2008-09-05T13:34:00.001-04:00

If you haven’t heard, or have been living under a rock for the past several months, the biggest thing in years is coming to Charleston, WV. When I say biggest, I do mean “BIG.” It’s the 2008 World’s Strongest Man Competition and these guys are huge!.

This competition has worldwide recognition for taking place in exotic locales and tropical islands across the globe. Now with the persistence of the city of Charleston employees and our own 2006 World’s Strongest Man Phil Pfister, it is coming to Wild and Wonderful West Virginia. This will give the city and our state unbelievable recognition everywhere. If you have ever been lying awake in the middle of the night or home in the middle of the afternoon and turned on the television, you’ve probably seen past shows covering the Strongest Man bouts. ESPN and ESPN Classic will air episodes over and over and over. Charleston and West Virginia has struck gold in this competition already with the coverage by worldwide markets.

You don’t want to miss this - it might be a once in a lifetime thing. Here is a schedule of events taking place over the next two weeks at various locations throughout Charleston. Come and cheer on Charleston’s own Mr. Pfister as he competes to reclaim the World’s Strongest title!

Preliminary Competition, Saturday Sept. 6 through Sept. 9:
Saturday, Magic Island, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.: Loading race, keg toss.
Sunday, Haddad Riverfront Park, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.: Fingal fingers, truck pull.
Monday, Capitol Complex, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.: Squat lift, dead lift, giant log lift.
Sept. 9, University of Charleston, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.: Overhead lift, atlas stones.

The Finals will be held, Sept. 12-14:
Sept. 12, Haddad Riverfront Park/Kanawha Boulevard, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.: Power stairs, fingal fingers, car walk.
(The Sept. 12 events will be followed by a Live on the Levee concert featuring the Davisson Brothers Band at 6 p.m.)
Sept 13, Coonskin Park, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.: Car dead lift, overhead lift.
Sept. 14, Yeager Airport, 11 a.m.: Plane pull.
Sept. 14, Appalachian Power Park, 7:30 p.m.: Atlas stones.

Generation Charleston making a difference - one step at a time

2008-08-25T10:22:00.002-04:00

While some of you might have been sleeping in Saturday morning, I was out getting my sweat on with about 50 other like minded people. We all got up early Saturday to make a difference on the West Side of Charleston in Cato park. Here is the article that appeared in the Sunday Gazette-Mail. It was written by Alison Knezevich.

Hikers and bikers will have a few new paths to trek in Charleston, thanks to more than 50 volunteers who turned out Saturday to build trails at Cato Park.

Dozens of people organized by the group Generation Charleston cleared leaves, roots and rocky dirt on a half-mile path on a steep hill behind the park as part of a community service project.
The volunteers started working around 8 a.m. (and we worked the entire morning finishing up around Noon) They followed a winding path of bright orange flag markers, using special tools that look like axes and rakes to carve out the trail. Home Depot donated work gloves and other tools, and local fast-food places gave the group free breakfast and lunch.

Volunteer Rossi Getzkova said building trails was her way of creating something for future generations. "There's always a way to make an impact in your community," she said as she snipped roots from the trail using a tool called a lopper. "I would say the hardest part is making sure the trails are level," said Generation Charleston member Todd Beane. "Because we want them to be safe."

The city owns the 50 acres of land at the trail site. Last year, the Charleston Land Trust began to develop the site, and several other groups have helped build trails. "There's still more to do, but this is going to knock out a major piece," said City Councilman Adam Henry Knauff, who volunteered Saturday.

Eventually, the new paths will connect to others in various parks in Charleston, Knauff said. He wants more people to know about outdoor recreation opportunities at Cato Park.
"I think the city should make it a priority in terms of getting people out here," he said.
Generation Charleston - formerly called Young Professionals - is a committee of the Charleston Area Alliance.

The group's community outreach team also has completed service projects for the YWCA and Habitat for Humanity, said community outreach co-chairwoman Brooke Pauley. Momentum is growing for Generation Charleston's volunteer efforts, Pauley said.

At the beginning of last week, only 15 people had signed up for Saturday's project. But the group ended up breaking its goal of 40 volunteers. Helpers included not only Generation Charleston members, but also a Boy Scout troop and a Girl Scout troop and others from the community.
Generation Charleston's next event is a panel discussion on how people can become more involved in helping their community. The panel starts at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday at the Schoenbaum Family Enrichment Center.

Reach Alison Knezevich at 348-1240.

Now hopefully, as Adam put it, the City of Charleston will make publicizing the new trails a priority and everyone can enjoy!

Chimney Corner Cafe

2008-08-21T10:57:00.002-04:00

I recently heard about a new establishment that offers great food and good music in the Fayetteville area. It's called Chiminey Corner Cafe. It is the the newest live music venue in the area. Included is a schedule of upcoming events, pick a date and check them out, sounds like a really cool place. This establishment seems to be taking the next step to bring quality entertainment in to Chiminey Cafe. The schedule seems fairly aggressive, and they don't charge an admission so attendance support is needed.

Chimney Corner Cafe - Great Food, Great Entertainment, and Great Friends!

Aug. 21
Musicians Jam 6 -9pm

Aug. 22
Third String

Special Show 6pm
Bluegrass

Aug. 23
Country Fever 1pm
2Blue - Blues Guitar 6pm

Aug. 24
Duffy Boyd 1pm
Don't Fear The Banjo Music
Eduardo Canelon' & Elizabeth 6pm

Aug. 25
Country Gospel Night
w/ Bill Neil & Allan Morris &
Southern Grace

Aug. 26
Closed

Aug. 27
Solo Night
Special Guest Each Week

Aug. 28
Musicians Jam 6 -9pm

Aug. 29
Strings Of Green
Special Show 6pm

Bluegrass

Aug. 30
Blues Special Show
Izzy Stetar &Chris Nacy1pm

2 Blue -
Blues Guitar 6pm

Aug. 31
Duffy Boyd 1pm
Don't Fear The Banjo Music

Eduardo Canelon' & Elizabeth 6pm

Sept. 1
Country Gospel Night

w/ Bill Neil & Allan Morris &
Southern Grace

Sept. 2
Closed

Sept. 3
Solo Night

Special Guest Each Week

Sept. 4

Musicians Jam 6 -9pm

Sept. 5
Chick Singer

Classic Rock
6PM

Sept. 6
Muddy Feat
Bluegrass
1pm
Everett Lilly Dinner & Show 6pm
Reservations Only

Sept. 7
Duffy Boyd 1pm
Don't Fear The Banjo Music

TO BE ANNOUNCED
6PM

Sept. 8
Country Gospel Night

w/ Bill Neil & Allan Morris &
Southern Grace

Sept. 9
Closed

Sept. 10
Solo Night

Special Guest Each Week

Sept. 11
Musicians Jam 6 -9pm

Sept. 12
Shawvers Crossing
Special Show 6pm

Bluegrass

Sept. 13
Muddy Feat
Bluegrass 1pm
Mike Aiken
Special Show 6pm

Sept. 14
Duffy Boyd 1pm
Don't Fear The Banjo Music

Nation's First Modern Coal-to-Liquids Plant To Be Built In W.Va.

2008-08-21T10:52:00.000-04:00

Gov. Joe Manchin has announced plans for the construction of the nation’s first modern coal-to-liquids plant in the state’s Northern Panhandle. Joining the governor were Sen. Jay Rockefeller, with support from Sen. Robert C. Byrd and West Virginia’s Congressional delegation, and officials from CONSOL Energy, Synthesis Energy Systems (SES) and the Regional Economic Development Partnership (RED).CONSOL, the nation’s largest producer of bituminous coal, and SES, a global industrial gasification company, intend to develop through a joint venture, their first U. S. coal gasification and liquefaction plant in Benwood. The joint venture, Northern Appalachia Fuel LLC (NAF), will invest $800 million in the plant.

The plant is expected to be a “mine mouth” facility with feedstock supplied directly from CONSOL’s nearby Shoemaker complex. The feedstock will be a blend of run-of-mine coal and coal otherwise not recovered in the normal preparation process. Coal will be converted to synthetic gas using SES proprietary technology. The syngas would be used to produce about 720,000 metric tons per year of methanol that can be used as a feedstock for the chemical industry. Officials expect the project will be capable of converting methanol to about 100 million gallons per year of 87 octane gasoline. NAF is negotiating with ExxonMobil Research and Engineering to license their proprietary methanol-to-gasoline technology. As envisioned, the project will include a river terminal facility, where products will be stored in tanks for off-loading into barges for ultimate delivery.

It is estimated the plant will create 300 to 500 construction jobs and, when the plant begins production, it will have about 60 full-time permanent employees.

(from the WV Chamber of Commerce)

WV Rocks

2008-08-12T11:04:00.002-04:00

Some say good bands are hard to find. Some say good bands from WV are almost impossible. Well I've got a different perspective. I have recently stumbled across two great bands hailing right here from the hills of West Virginia.

Visit their websites or myspace pages and check out their sound. Even if you don't particularly like their sound, you've got to give them some props for making rock music from WV. Just like the Redding Brothers from Hurricane, I would definitely recommend the New Relics from Morgantown, and Old School Abbey from Beckley.

I have seen each of these bands perform live at various WV locations. They are worth the drive wherever you can catch them!

See you at a show....

2008-08-12T10:59:00.002-04:00

The Redding Brothers: Rockin’ W.Va. and the World
Written by Jason Keeling of http://www.abetterwestvirginia.com/ on August 11, 2008

Cultures are heavily influenced by creative people, whose individual values often help shape collective perceptions. Three young men from West Virginia have found rock & roll to be one of the most powerful means of expression, and they are working diligently to inspire others through their music.
The Redding Brothers grew up in a musically inclined family from Hurricane. Their father played guitar and often sang tunes by Johnny Cash and The Beatles. The violin was their grandpa’s instrument of choice. Naturally, the boys developed an appreciation for music, and during their teenage years they began playing together: Micah (now age 26) on guitar, Josiah (age 24) on bass, and youngest brother Gabriel (age 21) jamming on percussion.
“We started as cheesy acoustic” said Micah jokingly, in reference to Rough Draft, a five song EP the band first released during October 2003.
‘The Progression of Song-Writing’
“Through the progression of song-writing, we became more philosophical,” further commented Micah. “Rather than songs of dependency, we’re trying to describe the ability to pick yourselves up.” There’s more focus on “contributing, rather than being a victim,” stated Josiah.
Guitar in hand, Micah leads an impromptu rendition of “Throwing Stones,” a track on their first official album, Wisdom from the Green Shag Carpet. In unison, the lyrics “I won’t be trapped, I will be free” echo across the stage, impressing the interviewers with harmony and words of liberation.
“Most modern popular music has little meaning, other than ’shake your booty,’ “added Gabriel, who agreed their musical talents and focus have evolved since forming the band. A recent career highlight included a 25-day trip to the Middle East earlier this year, in which the group performed for U.S. troops.
Tour Schedule
The Redding Brothers are now headquartered from Nashville, Tenn., but they maintain a touring schedule that brings them home to West Virginia several times: Aug. 21 (Glenville State College), Sept. 20 (City of St. Albans), Oct. 9 (Concord University) and Nov. 2 (Roanoke, W.Va. Student Activities Programming Conf.)
You can sample the band’s music here and a photo stream of this interview is available courtesy of Sarah Cooper.

2008-08-06T10:19:00.002-04:00

The 2008 State Fair of West Virginia in Lewisburg is just days away and the fair grounds are alive with activity. If you plan to visit "West Virginia's Biggest Garden Party", take a look at www.statefairofwv.com before you go to download copies of fair brochures and a schedule of events. Find activities, exhibits, livestock information, building hours, entertainment options and so much more! The Fairgrounds Map will help you find the buildings, arenas, and exhibits that you plan to visit.

While there don't miss downtown Lewisburg. It is perfect for walking around and window shopping with many antique shops, cool restaurants (Food and Friends is the best (foodandfriendswv.com), a martini bar (www.delsollounge.com), and even an Irish pub. Not to mention one of the top US osteopathic medical schools for 10 years in a row, WV School of Osteopathic Medicine www.wvsom.edu.

Let us know what your favorite part of Lewisburg is or what event/activity you love at the State Fair.

Restaurant thinks global, impacts local

2008-08-05T09:48:00.004-04:00

Charleston Daily Mail - Business - Restaurant thinks globally, cooks locally
Source: www.dailymail.com

Keeley and Jon Steele's latest adventure in the restaurant world is putting into practice their personal commitment to buy local and to reduce, reuse and recycle.

I have eaten there several times, and let me tell you - it gets better every time!

WV in the news

2008-07-22T11:26:00.002-04:00

West Virginia has another benefit to it. With the failing economy and money troubles all over the news, our banks here at home are doing just fine. Read the article appearing in the Charleston Gazette today by visiting http://www.wvgazette.com/News/200807210642

Smart Ways to Save on Gas

2008-07-14T12:12:00.003-04:00

Here are some helpful ways to save money on gas while travelling around West Virginia and seeing the beautiful scenery.

With gas prices around $4 a gallon, a 20-gallon fill up will set you back 80 big ones! Instead of squeezing dollar bills out of your wallet, here are a few tips to help you squeeze more miles out of every tank of gas.

Drive Intelligently
Avoid aggressive driving. I read in a magazine that you should drive as if there was a hard-boiled egg between your foot and the gas pedal. By observing speed limits and avoiding abrupt starts and stops, you can increase mileage by 5% on city streets and up to 33% on the highway.

Control your speed. Using cruise control automatically reduces the amount of fuel you burn on the highway. When you set your speed, remember that gas mileage dramatically decreases when you exceed 60 mph.

Don't idle. If traffic is at a standstill, turn off the engine. An hour of idling can swallow a gallon of gas. Also, avoid long lines at drive-through windows - you'll save money by going inside.

Get your car in shape
Tune up. Keep your spark plugs clean, your engine tuned, and your wheels aligned. Replacing a clogged air filter can improve your gas mileage by 10% saving up to 40 cents per gallon.

Use the right motor oil. If the oil is too thick, your engine will have to work harder, burning more fuel as it does. To thin, and your car won't get the right protection. Stick with the type recommended by your owner's manual.

Take care of your tires. Keep tires inflated to the pressure recommended in your owner's manual. Soft tires use more gas, but over inflating your tires (as some mileage savers suggest) will mess with your car's handling.

Cheat the wind
Roll up your windows. It may seem odd, but you'll get better summer mileage by cranking the A/C on the highway, since open windows create drag at high speeds. If you're just running errands around town, fresh air is best.

Maintain a sleek profile. Avoid accessories like luggage racks, which increase drag, and keep your tailgate upright. Fix any dents, especially to the front of the car.

Hopefully these tips will help you save a little green. Be sure to take advantage of the gas saving tips while touring around West Virginia's scenic beauty or even taking in one of the many summer fairs and festivals!

Education vs. Creativity = Chicken or the Egg

2008-07-09T14:54:00.003-04:00

I am in no way knocking education. It is of the utmost importance in today's competitive world. I have a Bachelors degree and will be embarking on a masters program soon.

But, when talking about revitalizing a community, people always argue what needs to be in place first. One argument is schools should be built and are needed first to educate individuals and then those people will redevelop the community. Another argument is a community needs to attract the creatives first to have new ideas in moving the community forward and education will then follow.

I feel that the creative individuals are more important to lay the groundwork for building new restaurants and new attractions. This will in turn attract visitors and create a draw of people to the city, who once there, finds that it has so many wonderful offerings (from the creatives) that they move there. As more people follow, there is a need to build more schools for educating the community citizens. This will then spark more economic development and the community will be on its way to revitalization.

As we all know, it takes money to do anything. The creative new community attractions (restaurants, shops, retail) will bring increased economic development and supply money for the schools that will be needed to be built.

What do you think? Chicken or the egg - Education or Creativity

Independence Day!!

2008-07-03T12:30:00.002-04:00

I wanted to wish everyone a Happy Fourth of July. Enjoy your holiday and celebrate with friends and family!

Instead of traveling to relax, check out this great idea and maybe you can have a "staycation." A term shared by Marketing Genius Skip Lineburg at Maple Creative.

What better place to celebrate than right here in West Virginia!!

http://marketinggenius.blogspot.com/2008/07/staycation.html#comments

Working on it

2008-06-30T16:00:00.001-04:00

Working on getting the blog up and running.