County Lines: Facts from the 55
While everyone probably knows a little something about most of West Virginia’s 55 counties, we wanted to increase the type of knowledge people have about our great state. It is with that goal in mind that we present “Facts from the 55.” We hope you enjoy and learn a little something about the state we call home.
In the Chef’s Corner: DiOGi’s
DiOGi’s is known in West Virginia for its variety of authentic Latin dishes and the friendly service offered to both human and canine customers. Located in Fayetteville, the restaurant is open for lunch and dinner for visitors from near and far to experience the lively menu and laid-back atmosphere.
Going Down Smooth
As a grain-to-glass distillery, Smooth Ambler Spirits, located in Maxwelton, WV, combines local mountain water, regionally sourced corn and wheat and clean air in an ideal climate to produce fine, handcrafted vodka, gin and whiskey. “We hand-select our grains, bring them to the distillery whole and grind them ourselves,” explains John Little, vice president and head distiller. “Then, the spent grain, or stillage, is picked up by a local farmer and fed to his livestock.” This cyclic process allows Smooth Ambler to maintain a hands-on approach and preserve relationships with their suppliers.
In the Chef’s Corner: Yellow Brick Bank
In 1976, the former Jefferson Security Bank in Shepherdstown, WV was purchased for space as a restaurant. The new owner named it the Yellow Brick Bank and opened for business before discovering that the bricks resisted paints and glazes, yellow or otherwise. The name has remained, however, and today, the Yellow Brick Bank (YBB) is an Eastern Panhandle institution that has served a notable list of guests that includes First Lady Nancy Reagan.
A City Becomes a Work of Art: FestivALL Marks 10 Years
In 2004, a small group of city leaders in Charleston, WV met with Mayor Danny Jones to develop an idea for a citywide arts and entertainment festival. The concept was different from past events the city had hosted, such as its long-running Charleston Sternwheel Regatta, which took place on the riverfront and focused on music. Instead, these city leaders envisioned a more comprehensive festival, one that would include music, theater, fine art and dance.
In the Chef’s Corner: Noah’s Eclectic Bistro
At just 13 years of age, Noah Miller knew he wanted to be a chef. During his first job, working under the guidance of Otis Laury at the West Virginia Governor’s Mansion, Miller began his journey into the culinary world, learning the basics of classic cooking.