Alex Panas

WHEELING, W.Va. – June 22, 2022 – Wheeling Heritage was recently selected by Opportunity Appalachia to participate in a program to bring jobs, business support and investment to Central Appalachia.

Wheeling Heritage was awarded a grant of up to $75,000 providing technical assistance for the development of the Blue Church, one of Wheeling’s best examples of pre-Civil War Greek Revival architecture. Receiving technical assistance through Opportunity Appalachia will provide pre-development work that positions the building to be repurposed as a food and beverage concept with live music, or as a 500-person entertainment venue. 

This project will boost the economic vitality of East Wheeling, one of Wheeling’s most popular residential urban neighborhoods. Estimated costs for this project are $6 MM with creation of 140 jobs, including construction jobs. 

“Wheeling Heritage is incredibly excited to be a part of the Opportunity Appalachia cohort and receive access to these predevelopment funds,” said Betsy Sweeny, director of heritage programming for Wheeling Heritage. “So often with challenging historic properties, we think putting a ‘for sale’ sign out front will be enough to turn something old into something new. The reality, however, is that most empty historic properties require in-depth study and analysis to determine how to make their rehabilitation financially viable. The Opportunity Appalachia funds will allow us to work with the specialized consultants to study the market to determine the best use for this building and create a financial model that will illustrate how to bring that use to life.” 

Opportunity Appalachia received 75 applications for technical assistance from across Central Appalachia, which includes Southeast Ohio, East Tennessee, Western North Carolina, Southwest Virginia and West Virginia, representing projects with anticipated costs of over $369 million and requested technical assistance worth more than $3.7 million. 

The organization selected 34 projects to participate in a program to bring jobs, business support and investment to Central Appalachia. The projects selected are proposed to create more than 1,700 jobs and attract over $177 million in financing to develop manufacturing facilities, downtowns, community centers, health, wellness and childcare centers, food and agricultural facilities, hotels and retail enterprises in downtown and rural areas across Central Appalachia. 

To learn more about Wheeling Heritage and The Blue Church project, visit wheelingheritage.org/project/blue-church/

About Wheeling Heritage: Wheeling Heritage is a catalyst for the revitalization of Wheeling. Through historic preservation, community development, and the arts, we help to tell Wheeling’s story and shape its future. We seek to improve the quality of life in Wheeling by preserving and investing in our city, collaborating with others, and engaging the citizens of Wheeling in our work.

WHEELING, W.Va. – June 8, 2021 – Wheeling’s Juneteenth Celebration will be held on Sunday, June 19, to commemorate the end of slavery in America. The event will begin at 5 p.m. with a short ceremony at the north end of The Plaza on Market. The location is of significance as the space was once a slave auction block. After the ceremony, music, entertainment and food trucks will follow at the south end of the Plaza. The event is free and open to the public. 

The Wheeling Juneteenth Committee, which is made up of representatives from Wheeling Heritage, Wheeling YWCA, City of Wheeling, Wheeling NAACP, Oglebay Institute, and the Ohio Valley Underground Railroad Museum and local leaders in the Black community, will host this year’s event. 

Juneteenth celebrations date back to June 19, 1865, when Union soldiers landed at Galveston, Texas, with news that the war had ended and that the enslaved were now free. This was more than two years after President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation, which had become official on January 1, 1863. Juneteenth was officially recognized as a US federal holiday on June 17, 2021. 

Speakers for the event’s opening ceremonies include Dr. Monique Akassi, Special Assistant to the President for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at West Liberty University; Darryl Clausell, president of the West Virginia NAACP; Jerry Moore, president of the Belmont County NAACP; Rev. Twila Davis of the Macedonia Baptist Church; and Glenn Elliott, mayor of the City of Wheeling. 

After the ceremony, music, entertainment and food trucks will follow at the south end of the plaza featuring performances by Voices of Praise, Isaiah Keez, and Soul Skool. 

“I am so excited for our Juneteenth celebration this year. It is the culmination of a collaboration between different groups in the Ohio Valley that should make all of us proud to live here,” said Ron Scott, cultural diversity and community outreach director at the YWCA Wheeling, and chair of the Juneteenth Committee. “The best part about this year’s celebration is that the questions I’m getting are more than ‘What is Juneteenth,” and is instead ‘What are you guys doing for Juneteenth?’ That shows me that we are focused on doing the right type of work.” 

“When we took part in organizing Juneteenth as part of the Wheeling 250 Celebration in 2019, we said this will be an annual celebration, not just a one-off thing. Now, three years later, we are so happy to be continuing this celebration, and growing it year over year,” said Betsy Sweeny, director of Heritage Programming at Wheeling Heritage. 

In the days leading up to June 19, two new events are scheduled this year to celebrate Black history and culture. On Friday, June 17 at 12:30 p.m., The Ohio County Public Library will host a special edition of their Lunch With Books series focusing on the history of the Underground Railroad and abolitionist movement in the Ohio Valley presented by Kristina Estle, director and curator for the Underground Railroad Museum. On Saturday, June 18 at 5 p.m., professional reenactor and magician Rory Rennick will tell the story of Henry “Box” Brown with a magical twist. Following Rennick’s performance the Goree Drum ad Dance Company will perform a traditional West African dance show. 

All Wheeling Juneteenth events are free and open to the public. For more information or to get involved, visit wheelingjuneteenth.com or contact Ron Scott at cdcodirector@ywcawheeling.org. 

About YWCA Wheeling

YWCA Wheeling is on a mission to eliminate racism, empower women, stand up for social justice, help families and strengthen our community. The organization offers programming for family violence prevention, cultural diversity and community outreach, residence and emergency homeless sheltering and non-treatment recovery. YWCA Wheeling is an active member agency of the United Way of the Upper Ohio Valley. 

About Wheeling Heritage:

Wheeling Heritage is a catalyst for the revitalization of Wheeling. Through historic preservation, community development, and the arts, we help to tell Wheeling’s story and shape its future. We seek to improve the quality of life in Wheeling by preserving and investing in our city, collaborating with others, and engaging the citizens of Wheeling in our work.

WHEELING, W.Va. – June 6, 2022 – Four small business owners will each make a pitch at Wheeling Heritage’s Show of Hands event on June 29. The event, which begins at 6 p.m. at the Artisan Center, 1400 Main Street, invites attendees to pay $5 to vote for the project they feel is the most worthwhile. The winning presenter will leave with about $4,000, including all the funds raised at the door, for his or her business expansion. 

At the event, owners of the following businesses will be making presentations: 

Chef N Company: Chef Adam Luiso, owner of Chef N Company, is building a small business that provides nourishing and delightful food the people of our community. Luiso’s goal is to provide clients with a culinary experience that encourages them to stay and eat local. Support from Show of Hands would help Luiso purchase catering supplies that are necessary for a successful and safe catering event. 

Edgington Studio: Edginton Studio is changing the standard of apparel production, right here in Wheeling. Owner Emily Rouse and her team provide small batch apparel production through the use of local talent sourcing and partnerships. Rouse’s business is in a state of growth, and she is hoping Show of Hands can help support this growth by providing funds to purchase industrial machinery and improved work tables for her studio. 

Table 304: Libbi Gramby, owner of Table 304 creates beautiful grazing boards for large and small events. Table 304 also operates a full service coffee shop with grab and go food options. One of the most popular items that Table 304 offers is their cheese spread, which Libbi makes in a small food processor that came from her home kitchen. Libbi is seeking support through Show of Hands to help upgrade to a commercial-grade food processor to increase her production efficiency. She also hopes to purchase small tasting glasses and flight boards to offer coffee flights in the shop. 

Tito’s Catering: Tito’s Sloppy Doggs on Market Street is a popular breakfast and lunch destination for those living and working in Downtown Wheeling. Owner Christopher Burress wants to build on the success of his brick-and-mortar restaurant by offering catering services – a common request he receives from his customers. Show of Hands would provide funding to help Burress purchase new equipment that would keep large amounts of food at the proper temperature for large catering events. 

This program is generously funded by several community sponsors. Orrick, the program’s corporate sponsor, donates $1,000 to each event. The Friends of Show of Hands, which consists of community members and business owners, contribute $250 to each event. Friends of Show of Hands include Dave and Beth Weaver of Wheeling Volkswagen & Subaru, Dr. and Mrs. Dan Joseph of Joseph Orthodontics, Brian Joseph of Touchstone Research Laboratory, Fuzz and Barb LaRue, H Lawrence Jones, Ed.D., Kennen & Kennen Realtors, Warwood Armature, Rabbi Joshua Lief and Rebecca Lief, Sikora Montessori and Will and Tracey Turani. 

So far, Show of Hands has given more than $93,000 to support small businesses and projects in Wheeling. 

About Wheeling Heritage Wheeling Heritage is a catalyst for the revitalization of Wheeling. Through historic preservation, community development, and the arts, we help to tell Wheeling’s story and shape its future. We seek to improve the quality of life in Wheeling by preserving and investing in our city, collaborating with others, and engaging the citizens of Wheeling in our work.

WHEELING, W.Va. – May 30, 2022 – Wheeling Heritage will host its latest First Friday Artist Spotlight Series at the Wheeling Artisan Center, 1400 Main Street, on Friday, June 3. This month’s event will feature Colleen Cominksy, the maker behind Colleen’s Crafty Creations. 

Wheeling Heritage’s First Friday Artist Spotlight Series allows attendees to get to know more about local artists, what inspires them to create, and take part in a hands-on activity guided by the artist. The series is designed to be a laid-back way of getting to know the artists that make our community a more vibrant place to live while creating your own work of art. 

This month, Wheeling Heritage will showcase handmade soaps and body care products made by local artisan Colleen Cominsky. Cominsky makes her soap through the hot process method, using natural butters and oils with herbs, clay, and spices. In addition to soap, Cominsky makes a variety of bath bombs, scrubs, body butter, natural bug sprays and deodorant, lip balm and crochet items. Guests who attend the First Friday Artist Spotlight on June 3 will get to mix, pour and cut soap loaves and take home a soap sample for themselves. 

“People love Colleen’s products and I think this event will give folks a chance to learn more about her process and what makes her products so special,” said Alex Panas, Program Manager for Wheeling Heritage. “Colleen has sold her products in our Artisan Center Shop for several years and has always been a popular vendor at our Handmade Holiday pop-up markets. We’re excited to continue to showcase Colleen and the amazing products she creates.” 

Wheeling Heritage’s First Friday Artist Spotlight Series is held on the first Friday of each month on the second floor of the Wheeling Artisan Center from 5 – 7 p.m. This event is free and open to the public. Stay up to date with all of Wheeling Heritage’s events by visiting wheelingheritage.org/events. 

About Wheeling Heritage Wheeling Heritage is a catalyst for the revitalization of Wheeling. Through historic preservation, community development, and the arts, we help to tell Wheeling’s story and shape its future. We seek to improve the quality of life in Wheeling by preserving and investing in our city, collaborating with others, and engaging the citizens of Wheeling in our work.

WHEELING, W.Va. – May 23, 2022 – If you have an idea for a new business, a business expansion, or a project that will impact Wheeling, you are encouraged to apply for Wheeling Heritage’s Show of Hands. The winner will leave the event with more than $4,000 to put towards his or her idea. 

Applications are due May 29 and can be completed at wheelingheritage.org/show-of-hands. A committee will review applications, and four will be chosen to move on to the presentation round. 

At the event, four presenters explain their ideas to community members in attendance. Attendees vote on their favorite, and the presenter who receives the most votes receives $4,000, plus door donations, to put towards the project. To date, Show of Hands has given more than $93,000 to 26 projects. 

The next Show of Hands event is scheduled for June 29 at 6 p.m. on the third floor of the Artisan Center, located at 1400 Main Street in Wheeling. Attendees pay $5 at the door, which is added to the winner’s prize. 

The latest Show of Hands winner, DeSean James, took home $4,470 to expand his landscaping businesses by purchasing additional equipment. In an interview with Wheeling Heritage, James stated that Show of Hands “is a really, really big way to get your small business out in the city of Wheeling.” Wheeling Heritage is excited to continue to support small, local businesses through Show of Hands. 

Orrick, the program’s corporate sponsor, donates $1,000 for each event. The Friends of Show of Hands, which consists of community members and business owners, contribute $250 to each event. Friends of Show of Hands include Dave & Beth Weaver of Wheeling Volkswagen & Subaru, Dr. and Mrs. Dan Joseph of Joseph Orthodontics, Brian Joseph of Touchstone Research Laboratory, Fuzz and Barb LaRue, H Lawrence Jones, Ed.D., Kennen & Kennen Realtors, Warwood Armature, Rabbi Joshua Lief and Rebecca Lief, Sikora Montessori, and Will and Tracey Turani. 

About Wheeling Heritage Wheeling Heritage is a catalyst for the revitalization of Wheeling. Through historic preservation, community development, and the arts, we help to tell Wheeling’s story and shape its future. We seek to improve the quality of life in Wheeling by preserving and investing in our city, collaborating with others, and engaging the citizens of Wheeling in our work.

WHEELING, W.Va. – May 5, 2022 – Wheeling Heritage will host Handmade Holiday Spring Market on Saturday, May 7 on the third floor of the Wheeling Artisan Center. The event will run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and will feature more than 30 juried artists selling their work. Admission is free. 

The market was originally planned as an outdoor event, but was relocated to the Wheeling Artisan Center due to inclement weather predicted for Saturday afternoon. 

Handmade Holiday is inspired by the independent craft fair movement throughout the country. The event strives to establish a marketplace of unique and creative handmade goods that supports local artists, while increasing awareness about handmade, locally produced craft goods and processes. 

“At our December Handmade Holiday, we received positive feedback from both our vendors and attendees who were interested in a Spring market,” said Alex Panas, Communications and Development Manager for Wheeling Heritage. “That’s why we decided to host a Spring market just in time for Mother’s Day. We hope folks enjoy this new opportunity to find high-quality, handmade items made by local artists.” 

In addition to handmade products, Wheeling Heritage has arranged food, music, and yoga to enhance the event. Jason Treuman will perform live acoustic music from noon to 2 p.m., and local food vendors Midge’s Kitchen, GypsyLace Café and So Nuts 4 Donuts will be on site selling food and snacks. Wheeling Heritage has also partnered with local yoga instructor Donn McCombs who will lead a Mommy and Me Yoga Flow at 10 a.m. for $12 per adult. 

“We really want our Spring market to feel like a Mother’s Day destination,” said Panas. “We hope to see attendees enjoying the whole experience of the market and venturing out to explore what the nearby businesses have to offer, too.” 

Attendees who make purchases from at least five vendors will be entered into a raffle to receive a $50 gift card to the Wheeling Artisan Center Shop. 

The artists participating in the event include: 

• Hawke Design Shop (woven wall hangings and wood signs) 

• Bandyanas (dog accessories) 

• A Frayed Knot Macrame (macrame art) 

• Peaceniks Creations (resin art and jewelry) 

• Hazen Handcrafted (polymer clay earrings) 

• Ashton Woods Studio (hand-knit, crochet and screen printed gifts) 

• Karole Wagner Designs (laser-cut earrings) 

• Colleen’s Crafty Creations (soap and body products) 

• Lone Stone Designs (jewelry) 

• Yardscape (metal and ceramic garden stakes) 

• RōDōWV Art (fluid art paintings) 

• Shapelessflame (art prints, stickers and zines) 

• East Wheeling Clayworks (pottery) 

• Knots By Nora Design (chunky knit blankets and gifts) 

• Apartment Two Art (soy wax candles and melts) 

• Art by Janet Lynn (jewelry and paintings) 

• B. Woven (woven and macrame home décor and jewelry) 

• Morning Light Studio (pottery) 

• The Painter’s Nest (artwork and hand-built items) 

• Boyd’s Crafts (hand-painted slate and wood) 

• James Arritt (handmade rings and belt buckles) 

• Beverly Arritt (croqueted scarves and hooked rugs) 

• Unique Miniatures (resin miniatures) 

• Susan West (quilted tote bags and gifts) 

• Rust Belt Stained Glass Works (stained glass décor) 

• The Bead Boyz (keychains and more) 

• Moon Beam Thrift (vintage goods) 

Follow Wheeling Heritage on Facebook, Instagram, and their website for event updates and announcements.

About Wheeling Heritage Wheeling Heritage is a catalyst for the revitalization of Wheeling. Through historic preservation, community development, and the arts, we help to tell Wheeling’s story and shape its future. We seek to improve the quality of life in Wheeling by preserving and investing in our city, collaborating with others, and engaging the citizens of Wheeling in our work.

WHEELING, W.Va. – April 7, 2022 – Wheeling Heritage today announced the launch of an online public art map of Wheeling. The comprehensive map was created to help visitors and residents explore Wheeling’s identity and history through public art. 

Users can click on each pin on the map to see an image of the art, complete with a short description of the piece and the artist who created it. The map includes more than 65 pieces of public art and is separated into three categories: artwork, sculptures and monuments. 

Alex Panas, Wheeling Heritage’s Communications and Development Manager, explains that the map is intended to be updated regularly to accommodate Wheeling’s growing arts scene. 

“As Wheeling’s public art inventory continues to grow, we will continually add information to the online arts map to help showcase the arts in Wheeling.” Panas continues, “We are also seeking the public’s input. There are likely a few spots we missed, which is why we included a place on our website where community members can submit information that can then be added to the map.” 

Wheeling Heritage has also partnered with the Wheeling Arts and Cultural Commission and Oglebay Institute to offer a print brochure to compliment the online map. The Downtown Art Trail brochure will take people on a three-and-a-half-mile loop through Wheeling’s Downtown and Centre Market neighborhoods to see several public art pieces up close. To request a copy of the brochure, those interested can send an email to info@wheelingheritage.org. 

According to Wheeling Heritage Executive Director Scott Schenerlein, projects like this are important to the organization’s mission of being a catalyst for revitalization in Wheeling. 

“Public art gives life to the community and showcases its special attributes. This map is something that can be used by everyone – visitors, teachers, students, and the local community,” said Schenerlein. “I am extremely proud of the work that has been done and thrilled that we were able to partner with other organizations to show off what happens when talented people collaborate together.” 

To view the map, visit wheelingheritage.org/public-art-trail. 

About Wheeling Heritage Wheeling Heritage is a catalyst for the revitalization of Wheeling. Through historic preservation, community development, and the arts, we help to tell Wheeling’s story and shape its future. We seek to improve the quality of life in Wheeling by preserving and investing in our city, collaborating with others, and engaging the citizens of Wheeling in our work.

WHEELING, W.Va. – March 23, 2022 – In celebration of Women’s History Month, Wheeling Heritage will host a panel discussion with three female entrepreneurs on Thursday, March 31 at 5:30 p.m. in the atrium of the Wheeling Artisan Center. The discussion will focus on the advantages, challenges and opportunities that come with being a female entrepreneur in Wheeling. 

The panel will be moderated by Wheeling Heritage and feature three local business owners who are providing unique services to our community. The following entrepreneurs will be joining the discussion: 

Emily Rouse, Owner of House of Rouse

Originally from West Virginia, Emily is a graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University, wielding dual degrees in Fashion Design and Business Administration. While studying and living in the historic city of Richmond, Virginia, she sewed her craft on both screen and stage in the Costume Department on PBS’s MERCY STREET and as the Costume Apprentice at Firehouse Theatre. Once in NYC, Emily broadened her horizons and immersed herself in every aspect of the fashion industry, gaining experience in wholesale, retail, design, distribution, and contracting. In August 2019, she established House of Rouse, LLC, her namesake womenswear fashion brand with a focus on prints designed in-house. Soon following in July 2020, Emily was excited to return to Wheeling and open Edgington Studio LLC, where collections for House of Rouse and other emerging designers are now produced. 

Kellie Ahmad, Co-owner of Rust Belt Restoration

Kellie Ahmad is a restorationist and co-owner of a specialized restoration company. Kellie holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Arts obtained at George Mason University, where she majored in Art History and Anthropology, minoring in Women and Gender Studies. In 2016 Kellie moved to Wheeling, WV to attend Belmont College. In 2020 she completed her Associate’s in Building Preservation and Restoration. During their time in school, Kellie and her fellow student Maura Smith, determined that they would form Rust Belt Restoration LLC, to assist homeowners in the Ohio Valley, and beyond, with restoration services. Kellie’s artistic outlet is in restoring and creating stained glass windows of her own design. Kellie is also a stained glass workshop instructor at the Mother Jones Center for Resilient Community. 

Rebecca Stahl, Owner of REStyle Consignment

A lifelong resident of the Ohio Valley, Rebecca has always had a passion for thrifty, smart shopping. She came to realize that consignment shopping was a great way for her to find quality, stylish clothing at affordable price points. In 2018, at the age of 23, she made the decision to change her career path to pursue her passion and fulfill her dream of opening her own consignment shop. Her business is committed to being as eco-friendly as possible to reduce the environmental footprint of the fashion industry. The core principles of her business are to reduce, reuse and REStyle. Her consignment shop is located in the Centre Market Historic District, where she specializes in providing upscale, quality clothing and accessories to her customers. 

“Wheeling has long been a home to innovation and industry, and today we see several successful young women who are forging their own paths and building unique businesses in our city,” said Alex Panas, Communications and Development Manager for Wheeling Heritage. “We hope that this discussion will help others gain an awareness and appreciation for these small businesses and potentially even inspire other women to consider starting their own small business.” 

During the discussion, audience members will have an opportunity to ask questions to the panelists. Learn more about this event at wheelingheritage.org/event/women-business-panel-discussion. 

About Wheeling Heritage Wheeling Heritage is a catalyst for the revitalization of Wheeling. Through historic preservation, community development, and the arts, we help to tell Wheeling’s story and shape its future. We seek to improve the quality of life in Wheeling by preserving and investing in our city, collaborating with others, and engaging the citizens of Wheeling in our work.

WHEELING, W.Va. – March 3, 2022 – Wheeling Heritage announced today their plans to host a new Artist Spotlight Series at the Wheeling Artisan Center Shop in Downtown Wheeling. The free monthly event intends to engage the community in Wheeling’s art community through immersive activities and discussions led by local artists. 

The First Friday Artist Spotlight Series will be held on the first Friday of each month, from 5 – 7 p.m., from March to December. 

During the event, attendees will get to know more about local artists, what inspires them to create, and take part in a hands-on activity guided by the artist. Wheeling Heritage’s First Friday Artist Spotlight Series will feature a different local artist or maker each month. The event is designed to be a laid-back way of getting to know the artists that make our community a more vibrant place to live while creating your own work of art. 

The first Artist Spotlight Series will feature Mindi Yarbrough, a Wheeling-based artist and graphic designer that is known for her witchy paintings, fun coloring books, and eye-catching murals. Attendees will get to meet Mindi and learn more about her art and current projects while coloring a page from her coloring book: “Find Me In Wheeling.” All supplies will be provided. 

Mindi’s art can be described as eccentric and whimsical and is inspired by fantasy, pop culture, nature, dreams, archetypes, symbology, spiritualities, myths, legends, and the paranormal. Her “Find Me In Wheeling Coloring Book and Scavenger Hunt” encourages people to explore the Friendly City through art. 

Wheeling Heritage’s Artist Spotlight Series with Mindi will be held on Friday, March 4 from 5 – 7 p.m. at the Wheeling Artisan Center Shop, 1400 Main Street (second floor), Wheeling, WV. More details about this event can be found by visiting wheelingheritage.org/events. 

About Wheeling Heritage Wheeling Heritage is a catalyst for the revitalization of Wheeling. Through historic preservation, community development, and the arts, we help to tell Wheeling’s story and shape its future. We seek to improve the quality of life in Wheeling by preserving and investing in our city, collaborating with others, and engaging the citizens of Wheeling in our work.

WHEELING, W.Va. – Feb. 28, 2022 – Four small business owners will each make a pitch at Wheeling Heritage’s Show of Hands event on March 30. The event, which begins at 6 p.m. at the Artisan Center, 1400 Main Street, invites attendees to pay $5 to vote for the project they feel is the most worthwhile. The winning presenter will leave with about $4,000, including all the funds raised at the door, for his or her business expansion. 

At the event, owners of the following businesses will be making presentations: 

Art’s Old Town Bicycle Repair: This North Wheeling bicycle repair shop is conveniently located off of the Wheeling Heritage Bike Trail. Art’s Old Town Bicycle Repair will provide walk-in repair services, as well as limited “mobile” trailside repairs and repair pick-up and delivery services. Owner Art Burnside has been slowly preparing his shop for a grand opening in April of this year. Show of Hands would provide funds to help Art purchase additional repair equipment and inventory for his shop, including a compressed air station. 

Backyard Escapes: DeSean James founded his landscaping company in 2021 as “a small company with a big heart.” Backyard Escapes offers traditional landscaping, hardscaping, maintenance, tree removal, and snow removal services. DeSean plans to incorporate a “180 Program” into his business, which would provide opportunities to previously incarcerated youths or adults to explore the field of landscaping, along with the other trades his business provides. Show of Hands would help DeSean purchase additional equipment to continue to grow his business. 

The Cheese Melt Bar and Grill: The Cheese Melt is a local food truck that is transitioning into a permanent brick-and-mortar restaurant in Warwood. In addition to the familiar menu of grilled cheese sandwiches and smash burgers, the new restaurant will have expanded hours and offerings, including a breakfast, lunch and dinner menu. Owner Thomas Gilson would use funding from Show of Hands to help purchase equipment to complete a new kitchen build out for the restaurant. 

Lucky Candies 2: Anton Drake recently opened a new, family-owned candy store in downtown Wheeling. Lucky Candies 2 offers a variety of novelty candies, including international, nostalgic and Tik Tok-trending treats. However, they are best known for their $5 fill-up box section, which has over 95 different candies to choose from. Anton wants to expand his business by purchasing a freeze dry candy machine, which would allow him to turn his candy into light, crunchy treats with a longer shelf life. Show of Hands would also provide additional money to purchase cotton candy and snow cone machines do 

they can offer even more sweet treats to customers during community events at Market Plaza where his business is located. 

This program is generously funded by several community sponsors. Orrick, the program’s corporate sponsor, donates $1,000 to each event. The Friends of Show of Hands, which consists of community members and business owners, contribute $250 to each event. Friends of Show of Hands include Dave and Beth Weaver of Wheeling Volkswagen & Subaru, Dr. and Mrs. Dan Joseph of Joseph Orthodontics, Brian Joseph of Touchstone Research Laboratory, Fuzz and Barb LaRue, H Lawrence Jones, Ed.D., Kennen & Kennen Realtors, Warwood Armature, and Rabbi Joshua Lief and Rebecca Lief. 

So far, Show of Hands has given more than $89,000 to support small businesses and projects in Wheeling. 

About Wheeling Heritage Wheeling Heritage is a catalyst for the revitalization of Wheeling. Through historic preservation, community development, and the arts, we help to tell Wheeling’s story and shape its future. We seek to improve the quality of life in Wheeling by preserving and investing in our city, collaborating with others, and engaging the citizens of Wheeling in our work.

WHEELING, W.Va. – Feb. 1, 2022– If you have an idea for a new business, a business expansion, or a project that will impact Wheeling, you are encouraged to apply for Wheeling Heritage’s Show of Hands. The winner will leave the event with more than $4,000 to put towards his or her idea.

Currently, the event is slated to return as an in-person event scheduled for March 30 at 6 p.m. on the third floor of the Artisan Center, located at 1400 Main Street in Wheeling.

“We’re excited to be bringing Show of Hands back as an in-person event, something we know that many people are looking forward to,” said Alex Panas, communications manager for Wheeling Heritage. “We are continually monitoring local COVID rates and have plans in place to transition the event back online if necessary.”

Applications are due Feb. 18 and can be completed at wheelingheritage.org/show-of-hands. A committee will review applications, and four will be chosen to move on to the presentation round.

At the event, four presenters explain their ideas to community members in attendance. Attendees pay $5 at the door, which is added to the winner’s prize. Attendees then vote on their favorite, and the presenter who receives the most votes receives $4,000, plus door donations, to put towards the project. To date, Show of Hands has given more than $89,000 to 25 projects.

The most recent Show of Hands winners include, Midge’s Kitchen, who plans to expand her business by purchasing a mobile food trailer, and Making Magic, a flower shop located in Warwood.

Orrick, the program’s corporate sponsor, donates $1,000 for each event. The Friends of Show of Hands, which consists of community members and business owners, also contribute to each event.

About Wheeling Heritage:
Wheeling Heritage is a catalyst for the revitalization of Wheeling. Through historic preservation, community development, and the arts, we help to tell Wheeling’s story and shape its future. We seek to improve the quality of life in Wheeling by preserving and investing in our city, collaborating with others, and engaging the citizens of Wheeling in our work.

WHEELING, W.Va. – Jan. 26, 2022– Volunteer Wheeling and Wheeling Heritage are calling on the community to be a part of a “heart bombing” public art exhibit in Downtown Wheeling. The goal of heart bombing is to bring attention to buildings in Wheeling that have the potential to be restored and put back into use. 

The concept of heart bombing began as a grassroots campaign organized by the Buffalo Young Preservationists in 2012. The goal was to draw attention to Buffalo’s vacant buildings and showcase them as community assets rather than eyesores. Their idea sparked several other preservation-focused groups to host their own heart bombing events – including Wheeling! The Wheeling Young Preservationists hosted successful heart bombing displays in 2013, 2014, 2015 and 2018. 

This year, Volunteer Wheeling is organizing a heart bombing throughout Downtown Wheeling – and invite anyone who is willing to help to join them. Volunteers will make hearts, signs and other decorations on Wednesday, Feb. 2 from 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. at the Wheeling Heritage office, 1400 Main Street. Materials and light refreshments will be provided, so volunteers just need to show up with their creativity. 

On Saturday, Feb. 5, volunteers will meet at the Wheeling Artisan Center at 11 a.m. where the buildings will be revealed before heading out to decorate them. The festive decorations will remain on display though February 20. 

“Heart bombing is like sending a love letter to our city’s historic buildings,” explains Alex Panas, Communications Manager at Wheeling Heritage. “We have selected more than 10 buildings that are vacant, available, or in the process of being restored that we think deserve some extra attention. It’s easy to pass by these places without thinking much about how they contribute to the cultural fabric of the city – this heart bombing display is a visible declaration from the community that says we care about the future of these buildings and want to see them preserved.” 

To learn more about how you can get involved in Volunteer Wheeling’s Heart Bombing project, visit wheelingheritage.org/news-events 

About Wheeling Heritage: Wheeling Heritage is a catalyst for the revitalization of Wheeling. Through historic preservation, community development, and the arts, we help to tell Wheeling’s story and shape its future. We seek to improve the quality of life in Wheeling by preserving and investing in our city, collaborating with others, and engaging the citizens of Wheeling in our work.

WHEELING, W.Va. – Dec 16, 2021 – Earlier this year, Wheeling Heritage released a survey to learn more about the types of housing people would like to see in downtown Wheeling. More than 1,300 individuals completed the survey that will provide Wheeling Heritage, local stakeholders, and interested developers with valuable knowledge about the types of housing that should be considered for future downtown projects. 

The results demonstrated a clear interest in expanded downtown housing and amenities. Of those surveyed, 50 percent indicated that they would or might be interested in living in Downtown Wheeling. Safety, affordability, walkability and proximity to a market were noted as important factors when considering where to live. Of those already living downtown, 68 percent said that they were likely to recommend Downtown Wheeling as a good place to live. 

“This survey provides critical information to our community partners and future developers about the kinds of housing and amenities that Wheeling can support,” said Betsy Sweeny, director of heritage programming for Wheeling Heritage. “We’ve known for years that anecdotally, people are interested in living downtown, but now we have the data to prove it.” 

The survey was facilitated by the Downtown Professionals Network (DPN), a research and planning firm that specializes in solutions for community, downtown, and business district development, redevelopment and revitalization initiatives. After the results were compiled, a representative from DPN met with staff from Wheeling Heritage along with the Regional Economic Development Partnership (RED), City of Wheeling, Wheeling Area Chambre of Commerce and other local stakeholders to discuss the findings of the study and explore opportunities for future collaboration. 

The full survey results can be accessed at wheelingheritage.org/housing-survey. 

About Wheeling Heritage: Wheeling Heritage is a catalyst for the revitalization of Wheeling. Through historic preservation, community development, and the arts, we help to tell Wheeling’s story and shape its future. We seek to improve the quality of life in Wheeling by preserving and investing in our city, collaborating with others, and engaging the citizens of Wheeling in our work.

WHEELING, W.Va. – Nov. 22, 2021 – Wheeling Heritage is pleased to announce the appointment of five new board members and officers. Art Burnside, Doug Carl, Dean Connors, Natalie Hamilton and Nick Musgrave join the board as new members for the organization. The board has also re-elected Walker Holloway as its chair and Jeanne Finstein as treasurer; Ellen Gano was elected as vice-chair at their annual meeting held on Nov. 17. 

“We are honored to welcome these talented and engaged community members to our board,” said Walker Holloway, chairman of the board for Wheeling Heritage. “Their valued input will help guide the organization over the next several years.” 

Art Burnside is a retired chemical engineer and graduate of Penn State who worked for Mobay and Bayer. Burnside moved to Wheeling in 2016 and resides in North Wheeling. He currently serves as vice president of the Victorian Old Town Association and is the owner of Art’s Old Town Bicycle Repair in North Wheeling. 

Doug Carl is the co-owner of the Bridge Tavern in downtown Wheeling. Carl is a graduate of WVU and previously served as a human resources executive with the state of Georgia. He returned to Wheeling in 2018 Riddick to transform the Bridge Tavern and renovate the upper floors of the building into living and office spaces. 

Dean Connors is the owner and member of Catfive Properties, LLC which buys, sells, rehabilitates, rents, and manages properties in the Upper Ohio Valley. Connors is also the founder and CEO of CMS Bankcard Services. He is committed to Wheeling’s revitalization and has served as a member of the City of Wheeling’s Waterfront Improvement Commission. 

Natalie Hamilton serves as a community development and grants administrator with Bel-o-Mar Regional Council. She recently obtained a master’s degree in urban planning from the University of Illinois, Chicago. Hamilton owns 1306 Market Street, which she is currently restoring with plans to provide first-floor retail space and residential space on the upper floors once the project is complete. 

Nick Musgrave is the director of development for the Community Foundation for the Ohio Valley. Musgrave was born and raised in Parkersburg, WV and is a graduate of Hastings College in Hastings, Nebraska. He is active with several community organizations, including the Ohio River Valley Council of the Boy Scouts of America, Youth Services System, Generation Wheeling, South Wheeling Preservation Alliance and the Rotary Club of Wheeling. 

About Wheeling Heritage: Wheeling Heritage is a catalyst for the revitalization of Wheeling. Through historic preservation, community development, and the arts, we help to tell Wheeling’s story and shape its future. We seek to improve the quality of life in Wheeling by preserving and investing in our city, collaborating with others, and engaging the citizens of Wheeling in our work.

WHEELING, W.Va. – Nov. 16, 2021 – Wheeling Heritage announced today that Scott Schenerlein has been named Executive Director of the nonprofit organization. He will assume the role on Dec. 13. 

Schenerlein previously served as the director of catering at Oglebay Resort and Conference Center where he gained over 25 years of experience in management, budgeting, revenue generation and relationship-building. He succeeds Alex Weld, who during her tenure oversaw the growth of the organization, advocated for state and federal policy and supported efforts to revitalize Wheeling. 

Wheeling Heritage’s Board of Directors partnered with The Pace Group, an executive search and recruitment firm, to facilitate the recruitment and interview process. 

“We feel very lucky that our search with The Pace Group led us to such a talented pool of qualified applicants. Scott was a standout candidate and we are thrilled to welcome him as Wheeling Heritage’s new executive director,” said Walker Holloway, chairman of the board for Wheeling Heritage. “His unique experience and enthusiasm will be instrumental in leading the organization into the future.” 

Schenerlein’s hiring comes as the organization embarks on a new strategic plan and is involved with many ongoing projects, including the creation of a subgrant program through the Paul Brun Historic Revitalization Grant from the National Park Service, renovation of the Wheeling Artisan Center and planning for a future Wheeling Heritage Center. 

“I’m honored to have the opportunity to lead Wheeling Heritage. I am excited to work with its staff, board of directors, and the community to further its mission in preserving both the historical and cultural aspects of Wheeling,” said Schenerlein. “I look forward to bringing the organization to the next level and making a positive impact throughout the city.” 

Schenerlein was born and raised in Wheeling and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from West Liberty University. He is part of the inaugural class of Growing Leaders for Impact, powered by Wheeling Country Day School and is a 2019 graduate of Leadership West Virginia. 

About Wheeling Heritage: Wheeling Heritage is a catalyst for the revitalization of Wheeling. Through historic preservation, community development, and the arts, we help to tell Wheeling’s story and shape its future. We seek to improve the quality of life in Wheeling by preserving and investing in our city, collaborating with others, and engaging the citizens of Wheeling in our work.

WHEELING, W.Va. – Nov. 1, 2021 – After a week of online voting, Wheeling Heritage’s latest round of Show of Hands has come to a close. More than 500 votes were received during the week-long voting period, with Melissa Rebholz, owner of Midge’s Kitchen, taking home the $7,260 award. 

Show of Hands is a community-supported crowdfunding event hosted by Wheeling Heritage. While typically held as an in-person event, it was held virtually for the second time due to concerns related to the pandemic. For this virtual Show of Hands, four presenters made their pitches with videos produced by Wheeling Heritage Media. Throughout the week, videos were shared using social media, and votes were collected through Wheeling Heritage’s website. 

In her video pitch, Melissa outlined her plan to use the Show of Hands award for a down-payment on a food trailer that would allow her to serve her locally-sourced meals at fairs, festivals and events around the Ohio Valley. 

“I am so grateful to have landed in this community that supports small businesses the way Wheeling does,” said Rebholz. “This win will significantly impact how soon I’m able to be running a mobile version of my business. I love my small pick-up service that I offer now, but getting to be out in the community at events and festivals with my food is a dream come true. I’ve been planning this for a long time and have lived in a lot of places, but I’m so happy it’s happening here and now.” 

Alex Panas, Wheeling Heritage communications manager, noted the increased participation for this year’s virtual event. “We were thrilled to see so many people from our community participate and show their support for all four of these businesses. We received more than 500 votes, which exceeds the attendance that we’ve seen at many of our in-person Show of Hands events,” Panas said. “Although there can only be one winner, it is clear that all of these businesses are beloved by the community. We encourage folks to continue to support them and follow what they are doing as their businesses continue to grow and evolve.” 

The event’s other presenters included: 

• On Deck Korner Store: Everette Gray Jr. is currently in the process of building a convenience store in his North Park neighborhood. Gray’s vision is to create a community hub that provides easier access to food and other essentials to those living in North Park. 
• Rysing Star Dance Academy: This downtown dance studio, owned by Taylor Lucas Rys, was seeking support to help bolster her Be A S.T.A.R program with additional staff, equipment, and room adaptations to accommodate students of all abilities. 
• Wheelcraft Bicycles: Drew Hollis, Wheelcraft’s new owner, was seeking funding to give this 30-year-old bike shop a fresh look to match a new era of ownership with new branding, signage and merchandise. 

Since its creation in 2014, Show of Hands has given over $89,000 to projects and businesses that make Wheeling a special place to live. Orrick, the program’s corporate sponsor, donates $1,000 for each event. The Friends of Show of Hands, which consists of community members and business owners, also contributes to each event. 

About Wheeling Heritage: Wheeling Heritage is a catalyst for the revitalization of Wheeling. Through historic preservation, community development, and the arts, we help to tell Wheeling’s story and shape its future. We seek to improve the quality of life in Wheeling by preserving and investing in our city, collaborating with others, and engaging the citizens of Wheeling in our work.

WHEELING, W.Va. – October 14, 2021 – Wheeling Heritage has launched a survey to learn about the types of housing people would like to see in downtown Wheeling. 

Starting today, Wheeling residents and workers are encouraged to go to wheelingheritage.org and complete the anonymous housing survey that should take no more than five minutes to complete. The deadline for participating in the survey is Tuesday, Oct. 26. 

“The results of this survey will help to identify both the types of housing, and the living environment that consumers would like to see in Wheeling,” said Betsy Sweeny, Director of Heritage Programming at Wheeling Heritage. 

Through Main Street West Virginia, Wheeling Heritage has been working with Downtown Professionals Network (DPN), as well as various partners, to design the survey. DPN, a firm specializing in research for downtown economic development, will analyze the results and provide residential developer recruitment strategies. 

The results will also be a useful resource for building owners considering developing the upper floors of their buildings to expand into the growing downtown market. 

“One of the most common questions I get asked by property owners developing their downtown buildings is, ‘Well, is it worth it to redo the upper floors? Will anyone actually live in the apartments I build?’ Anecdotally, I can say yes. We know there’s a huge demand for diverse downtown housing options, but the results of this survey will provide us with the hard data developers need to make that decision,” Sweeny said. 

The results will be shared with partners including the Regional Economic Development Partnership (RED), the City of Wheeling, and Wheeling Area Chamber of Commerce, and will also be available to the public on Wheeling Heritage’s website. 

About Wheeling Heritage: Wheeling Heritage is a catalyst for the revitalization of Wheeling. Through historic preservation, community development, and the arts, we help to tell Wheeling’s story and shape its future. We seek to improve the quality of life in Wheeling by preserving and investing in our city, collaborating with others, and engaging the citizens of Wheeling in our work.

WHEELING, W.Va. – Oct. 12, 2021 – A Wheeling restoration project is slated to be featured in a new television series that will stream on discovery+ beginning Oct. 15. Magnolia Network’s original series “In With the Old,” produced by Texas Crew, will include an episode with some familiar faces and places from the Friendly City. Betsy Sweeny, local architectural historian and director of heritage programming for Wheeling Heritage, will be featured in an episode of the series. 

The episode follows Sweeny through the process of restoring her East Wheeling Victorian home that she purchased in May 2020 for just $18,500. It also highlights revitalization efforts taking place across the city and features a few of the local craftspeople helping Sweeny restore her home. 

“It was important to me to highlight Wheeling as much as possible,” Sweeny said. “At the end of the day, I don’t want people to think, ‘Oh, Betsy has a cool house.’ I want them to think, ‘Wow, I could do that. Maybe I should live in Wheeling.’” 

“In With the Old” follows designers, builders and old-home enthusiasts in small towns and big cities across America who are reimagining and transforming abandoned structures by preserving their historical integrity while giving them new purpose. 

With the show’s production team based in Texas, the network partnered with Wheeling Heritage Media to help collect footage that was used for the episode shot in Wheeling. The Wheeling Heritage Media teamed provided comprehensive footage of the day-to-day progress being made at Sweeny’s home. 

“The goal of Wheeling Heritage Media is to tell Wheeling’s story by creating engaging digital content. Most often, our team works with local organizations to help tell their stories or create our own content that is shared on Weelunk,” said Alex Panas, Communications Manager at Wheeling Heritage. “This latest project with the Magnolia Network is a first for our team, but we’re excited that our work will be shared with such a wide audience and give more people the chance to learn about all of the positive things happening here in Wheeling.” 

“In with the Old” is now streaming exclusively on discovery+ and the Magnolia app. 

About Wheeling Heritage: 

Wheeling Heritage is a catalyst for the revitalization of Wheeling. Through historic preservation, community development, and the arts, we help to tell Wheeling’s story and shape its future. We seek to improve the quality of life in Wheeling by preserving and investing in our city, collaborating with others, and engaging the citizens of Wheeling in our work.