CD Release Party - Jim Savarino

On March 7, 2009, friends and fans of folk singer and songwriter Jim Savarino gathered at the Metropolitan Art Theatre in Morgantown to celebrate his highly anticipated 3rd CD titled Sun Dreams. It seems even Mother Nature was pleased to see it released as she treated everyone in Morgantown to sunny seventy-degree weather.
Guests in attendance were delighted to be the first to hear the new songs performed. In addition to being on hand to meet and mingle with fans, Savarino performed all the songs in the order in which they are listed on the CD. During his performance, one guest was overheard saying, “It adds a whole other layer of enjoyment when you hear the songwriter explain the story behind each song, “ and I have to say, I couldn’t agree more.

Accompanying Jim on backup vocals was Laura Robison. Her melodic voice lent a rich and soulfully enchanting harmony to the poetic lyrics of each and every song.
Watching Jim, a son of Wheeling, strum his guitar and sing songs such as “Where Have the Mountains Gone,” and “Northbound (to West Virginia),” I found myself thinking that the “life is good” logo on his t-shirt must have been coined just for him. Of all the wonderful songs I heard on Saturday evening, the absolute show stealer was “Surface of the Sun, ” which lulled the entire audience into an attentive and awed silence.
To sample all the tracks of “Sun Dreams” or to order a copy, visit http://cdbaby.com/cd/savarino3
--Joy Bell

Governor Manchin's Inauguration Celebration

January 18, 2009 -- During the eve of Governor Joe Manchin’s inauguration, friends and supporters gathered at Charleston’s Clay Center for a black tie celebration honoring his election to a second term in office.  Spirits were high as guests dined on rack of lamb, raw oysters, and carved roast beef.  The popular Bobby Nicholas band kept the party going well into the evening. 

--  Joy Bell

Morgantown Boutique Throws Holiday Party

When Shannon Coombs, owner of Vance’s Blues of Morgantown, decides to have a sale, she does more than just throw a sandwich board out in front of her shop.   She rolls out the red carpet. 

On December 15, 2008, customers of the trendy denim boutique were treated to a holiday party and accompanying sale.  Visitors were greeted at the door with a warm welcome and chilled glass of white wine.  Once inside the loft-like shop, the air was filled with an energetic buzz made up of laughter, music, and conversation as guests mingled among one another exploring the boutique’s clothing and other eclectic treasures. The first twenty guests were treated to a fragrant Tyler Candle. 

Vance’s Blues, located at 111 Walnut Street in Morgantown, is well known for their large selection of designer jeans, but that is not all you’ll find. They also stock an impressive selection of accessories, novelty items, and candles.  The lower level of the boutique houses a collection of wine from around the world and gourmet food items from Stonewall Kitchens. The next time you are in Morgantown, stop by Vance's Blues -- we guarantee you won't leave empty-handed! -- Joy Koritkowski-Bell

WV LIVING Magazine Launch Party

Welcome to WV LIVING's Celebrations Blog where we will celebrate West Virginia's social and charitable scene! 

Of course, we have to kick off our blog with the WV LIVING launch party! On December 22, 2008, national television host Kim Parrish (right), of the Kim Parrish Collection, and Jane Engelke (left), of Elizabeth's Boutique in Parkersburg, introduced WV LIVING Magazine to Parkersburg. Publisher/Editor Nikki Bowman (center) was on hand to discuss the mission of the magazine -- West Virginia's only statewide lifestyle publication.

Kim, a former Miss West Virginia known for her years on QVC and HSN, is featured in the premiere issue of WV LIVING and has signed on with the magazine as a Style Editor for future issues.   She’ll share her knowledge of fashion acquired as she travels the world working on her signature clothing collection.  The Kim Parrish Collection is sold in the United States exclusively through the Home Shopping Network. 

For more information on WV LIVING Magazine, visit www.wvlivingmagazine.com.