Middleton Doll Celebrates 30 years
In celebration of its 30th anniversary, Middleton Doll introduces its newest edition to the family by presenting its Newborn Nursery Wee Wonders. Smaller than their original Newborn Nursery dolls, these preemie-sized babies are dressed in knit asymmetrical close t-shirts and hats, and could almost fit in the palm of your hand! Visitors to the doll-house gift shop will enjoy a free museum tour and hear the cooing of newborns. www.leemiddleton.com
Fenton Gift Shop & Factory Remain Open
The year 2008 brings new beginnings for Fenton Art Glass and Gift Shop as the century old glassmaking company changes to recover from the difficulties it faced in 2007. This remarkable family-owned business is introducing two new brands this year: Fenton USA and Fenton International. It also continues to welcome visitors seven days a week to its gift shop outlet and museum. Free factory tours throughout the week offer a captivating up-close view of skilled craftsmen transforming molten glass into stunning works of art. www.fentongiftshop.com
America’s Oldest 5 & Dime Store Turns 100
Since 1908 Berdine’s 5 & Dime store has offered all the stuff your grandparents had and wanted! Folks come from states far away and around the world to enjoy the nostalgia of this small, playful store. For a century Berdine’s pressed tin ceiling, bulk candy case, tin toys, sewing notions, cedar boxes, glassware, kitchen gadgets and all kinds of novelties and practical items, have served customers near and far.
Spring Has Sprung
Tucked away in the beautiful West Virginia hills golfers will delight in teeing off at Mingo Bottom Golf Course. More than 180 acres of rolling greens, ponds and breathtaking views are available to enjoy this spring. www.mingobottomgolfclub.com
NEW! The Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites in Mineral Wells is the newest lodging property in the area (opened mid-2007) and is easily accessible from I-77 north and south. The new facility features a free Express Start Breakfast Bar, luxurious bedding and bathrooms designed exclusively with Simply Smart Showerheads by Kohler. www.hiexpress.com
Wingate by Wyndham (formerly Wingate Inn) in Vienna offers the comforts of home. When it's time to relax, put your feet up and watch a movie or enjoy a good night's sleep in our enhanced pillow-top style bed. www.wingatehotels.com/hotel/30422
Comfort Inn (formerly Amerihost Inn) located between Parkersburg and Vienna offers a warm and inviting atmosphere. Now part of the award-winning Choice Hotel brand, the Comfort Inn is within walking distance of Grand Central Mall, offers guests a free hot breakfast and a great indoor pool to relax in year-round. www.comfortinn.com
New events in 2008 include...
Scrapalooza 2008
Scrapbooking and paper crafting enthusiasts will gather April 4-5 at Grand Pointe Conference Center for the ultimate scrapbooking weekend! On Friday night, join the fun of our Crop, Swap & Trade Night. Then spend all day Saturday enjoying hands-on-sessions, a mini-mall vendor area, door prizes, contests and giveaways. Every guest will walk away with a 20-page, 6x6 album full of masterpieces!
Summer Garden Tour
West Virginia’s largest residential historic district, Julia-Ann Square, is found just steps away from downtown Parkersburg. Impressive iron arches welcome visitors at all corners of the district. And newly installed period lighting casts a soft glow at dusk on these architectural gems that depict Queen Ann, Colonial, Italianate and everything in between. Revel in the Victorian splendor during the district’s annual Summer Garden Tour June 7-8, 2008.
