You can still shop close to home on alternate Sunday mornings for local produce, apples, plants, flowers, breads & baked goods, cheeses, yogurt, grass-fed beef, eggs, chicken, pork, local honey, mushrooms, salsas & dips, maple syrups, vinegars, spices, teas, candles, body care, and other locally-produced items. COVID-19 guidelines continue — please wear a mask, follow Read the Full Story >>
Staff Contributor
CATF Shares Highlights of New Theater Online
The discussion and development of new theater goes on, even if the stages are dark. With the continued presence of COVID-19, the theater community continues to create and explore new avenues for sharing and collaborating online — offering the public glimpses into the process that would normally not be so visible. The Contemporary American Theater Read the Full Story >>
Civics and Civility for Students
Beyond its conversation events and programming, the Stubblefield Institute’s mission extends to being a catalyst for introducing the topic of civil political communication across the Shepherd University campus. Read the Full Story >>
The Eastern Panhandle Transit Authority Rides Out The Pandemic
Elaine Bartoldson, Director of the Eastern Panhandle Transit Authority (EPTA), describes EPTA’s mission as “providing service for the workforce, individuals who have no other way to get around.” She summarized her perspective on the value of EPTA, saying, “without public transportation, things will stop for the people who use it." Read the Full Story >>
Reading Programs for All Ages at the Shepherdstown Library
The Shepherdstown Public Library continues its regular weekly reading programs for all ages and adds a new program for teens this month. Visit the “events” tab on the Library’s Facebook page at 11 am on Tuesdays and 6 pm on Saturdays for live storytime presentations. You can view past storytime presentations under the “video” tab Read the Full Story >>
Shade’s Farm Offers Local Honey Products & More
Need a last-minute gift or a sweet way to start the New Year? Local honey, beeswax candles, and more are available from Shade’s Farm! “Curt’s products are great, and his attention to quality service is excellent and appreciated,” said a satisfied holiday customer. See the local retailer listings on the Facebook page or order online Read the Full Story >>
Bushel & Peck Receives Grant to Expand Operations
Whether you choose to measure by the bushel or peck, there’s no denying that a recent $125,000 grant awarded to local grocer Bushel & Peck will soon allow the organization to offer a lot more local, healthy food to the community. Read the Full Story >>
The Pandemic is Here & Now
Dr. Terrence Reidy shares thoughts and observations about the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic as well as his advice for reducing risk while the vaccine rollout begins. Read the Full Story >>
Stocking the Shelves
When The Observer spoke with Greg Petersen of the Jefferson County Community Ministries (JCCM) for our July 2020 issue, the Food Pantry operated by JCCM in downtown Charles Town was in the early days of navigating the pandemic and the staff was anticipating a sharp increase in demand. We recently touched base with John Cloyd, Greg’s colleague at JCCM to see what they experienced over the summer and what they expect this winter. Read the Full Story >>
Counting on the Well Water
After the WV Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) issued a notice on November 5, 2020 that it was authorizing the Rockwool stone wool insulation manufacturing facility in Ranson to operate under a general water pollution control permit, the Jefferson County Foundation noted that the source water protection area map submitted as part of the facility’s application process marked only 4 drinking water wells within the one mile buffer zone. Read the Full Story >>
The Holiday Bear Art Hunt Begins!
Join The Observer and participate in this fun and free holiday activity! The Holiday Bear Art Hunt is brought to the community by The Observer with the support of Jefferson Security Bank. Read the Full Story >>
Celebrate The Season With Holiday Lights
The Observer is encouraged to see that our local communities are keeping the festive spirit of the holiday season alive by continuing activities that can be enjoyed at a distance. We encourage our readers to find joy in these events and add our voice to the many who are encouraging patience and perseverance until we Read the Full Story >>
A 50 Year Holiday Tradition Continues — Olde Tyme Christmas Adapts in Harpers Ferry and Bolivar
The large A&P grocery store ad on page A-5 of the December 2 issue of The Spirit of Jefferson-Farmers Advocate from 1971 brings back memories. Four loaves of bread for a dollar, pork chops at $1.09 per pound, but also a note from the grocer apologizing for having been out of stock on so many Read the Full Story >>
Handmade Crafts at the Tri-State Holiday Handmade Market
A juried event featuring only hand-crafted items produced by local artisans and artists. Organized by Heavenly Treasures Pottery Studio and Rock Fusion Studio, this show and sale presents dozens of individuals selling a variety of items suitable for gifts, including pottery, candles, prints, jewelry and other unique items. For this indoor event, masks and social Read the Full Story >>
Caring for the Community with Two Rivers Treads
Local merchant Two Rivers Treads (400 S Mildred Street, Ranson) showcases the spirit of the holidays with its community coat rack in front of its store. Anyone in need of something to keep warm this winter is welcome to a jacket from the rack. They accept donations too — if you have any spare winter Read the Full Story >>