Snowshoe Mountain is a little more flavorful now, as resident "restaurant guy" Brian Ball opened his newest addition to the mountain in mid-December.
Red Rover, located in the heart of the mountaintop village, is half wine dive, featuring unique all-American boutique selections, and half "doggery." Ball has taken the classic hot dog to new heights, with creations like the "Cali Dog," featuring an all beef dog, guacamole, bacon, cucumbers and wasabi for less than $5. The dogs come in all shapes and sizes; the colossal "Three Dog Nite" is actually three hot dogs, wrapped in a tortilla with cheddar cheese, bacon, chili and onions.
For those not so fond of the hot dog, Ball has included a "No Dog," a tasty combo of avocado, tomato, onion, cucumber, spicy chipotle mayo and cheddar cheese for just $3. If you're looking for a twist on the hot dog, check out the Wild Boar Dog, made from wild boar sausage, the Fish Dog, beer-battered cod with plenty of fixings, one of the bratwurst or sausage creations, or the gourmet "Kobe Bryant," the ultimate hot dog made from Kobe beef.
Sit at tables or belly up to the bar in Red Rover!. You'll be surrounded by canine pals on all sides.
Photos courtesy Snowshoe Mtn. Resort.
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The menu includes Ball's masterpiece creations, or you can build your own dog, a la carte style, with a selection of buns, dogs and of course toppings. There's also plenty of sides, or "Not Dogs," to choose from, including Rover's tater tots. The generous portion of tots is served with sea salt and a delicious homemade dipping sauce. Soups and salads round out the menu.
If you're looking beyond the wine selection for something to wash down your dog, Ball has also included some of America's most unique beers, ales and stouts.
Other Ball eateries on the mountain include the Asian-fusion, metropolitan chic ember, the Marketplace and Hearth, all located in Soaring Eagle Lodge and Foxfire, the classic blues, views and BBQ joint located right next to Red Rover in the Village.
Ball's creativity, when it comes to food and atmosphere, seems to have no end. The classic dιcor of Red Rover is complete with black and white prints of Snowshoe residents' favorite best friends. Red Rover has already become one the mountain's hot spots, with great food, drinks and company!
Blues Du Jour is the main entree Saturday, January 26.
Photo by Drew Tanner
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Blues Du Jour on the Menu
this month at the Opera House
Barbara Elliott
Contributing Writer
The Charleston-based band, Blues Du Jour, is the featured special at the Pocahontas County Opera House this month. The group will perform Saturday, January 26, at 7:30 p.m.
Like a heart-warming pot of stew on a cold winter night, Blues du Jour has many flavors and textures that go together to create their distinctive sound. A chunk of blues, a dash of rock, a few slices of swing and a sprig or two of jazz give this group of eight West Virginia musicians a delicious sound that will have you asking for seconds.
After cutting her chops with groups such as Stark Raven and the Fabulous Twister Sisters, lead vocalist Julie Adams has traveled the country for the past 15 years as featured vocalist on the nationally syndicated West Virginia Public Broadcasting program Mountain Stage with Larry Groce.
Rounding out the band are Josh Barrett on guitar and vocals, Steve Broughton, saxes and vocals; Steve Dreyer, drums; Paul Flaherty, guitar and vocals; Rich Katz, keyboards; Stan Lynch, bass guitar; and Al Peery, trombone, percussion and vocals.
Sneak Peek for Pickin' on the Porch
Join the Front Porch Band Saturday, February 2, 7:30 p.m.
Photo by Drew Tanner
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The first weekend of February will be here before you know it, so don't be late for this homegrown show!
For the third year in a row, some of Pocahontas County's great old-time musicians will gather for an evening of "Pickin on the Porch" on Saturday, February 2, at 7:30 p.m. Okay, it's not really a porch, but the stage of the Opera House is a wonderful spot for these musicians to gather and play old-time tunes that truly embody the cultural history of Appalachia and the musical traditions of the immigrants who settled these rugged, yet beautiful mountains of West Virginia.
You'll see some of the county's stalwart performers in the Front Porch Band, including Alan Dutchess, Pam Lund, Jay Lockman, Norris Long and Terry Richardson, plus an ever-changing lineup of musicians and special guests.
These musicians draw their inspiration as old-time string band performers from the days when there were virtually no radios and travel between hollows was limited. Although they come from extremely diverse musical backgrounds, each has a deep respect for the music of those who came before them and each feels they are here to pick up where the generations before left off.
This popular concert is a showcase for the many talented musicians found in and around Pocahontas County.
The Pocahontas County Opera House is located at 818 Third Avenue in Marlinton. Tickets are $5 and will only be available at the door. Children 12 and under will be admitted free.
For further information, call (304) 799-6645. Performances at the Opera House are family friendly and open to all. Persons with disabilities are encouraged to attend. Special seating can be arranged by calling in advance. In the event of bad weather, please call to confirm that the performance is still scheduled.
These concerts are part of the 2007-08 Performance Series sponsored by the Pocahontas County Opera House Foundation. Financial support is provided through a grant from the West Virginia Division of Culture and History and the National Endowment for the Arts, with approval from the West Virginia Commission on the Arts. Additional support is provided by Pocahontas County Drama, Fairs and Festivals. Information on upcoming performances can be found at pocahontasoperahouse.org
Open year-round, the cottages at Cass Scenic Railroad State Park are rented by the day, up to a maximum of two weeks.
Photos by Gail Hyer
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Cozy Cabins of Northern Pocahontas County
Gail Hyer
Contributing Writer
Second of a three part series on cabin accommodations in Pocahontas County.
Frosted trees glisten in the sunlight, children delight with their first touch of snow as adults pull on long johns and warm socks for a full day of skiing. In Pocahontas County, deep on the western slope of the Allegheny front, winter is a Winter Wonderland.
Snowmakers work all night at Snowshoe Mountain Resort so skiers decked out in citrus yellow jackets, wearing hats bedecked with funky horns, poofy pom-poms, and streamin tassels will have a soft white place to play. Winter in Pocahontas County is all about fun on the slopes or in the woods!
Whether you come for the serenity, the exceptional downhill skiing, the quiet trek on XC skis along the Highland Scenic Highway or the thrill of speeding through a half pipe, it is the lodging for the night that can make or break a winter vacation.
Cass Cottages
If you are looking for authentic mountain history, then the Cass Cottages at Cass Railroad State Park are for you. The locals and Park staff refer to the housing at Cass as cottages but it is undoubtedly a misnomer. The two story structures are actually good sized houses, about 1200 square feet, which can easily sleep a group of eight to 10 people a perfect size for skiers and families. Built at the turn of the 19th century, these roomy houses offer a full family home complete with front porch for sitting and sipping chocolate and a back porch for storing the ski gear. The many windows fill the huge kitchen with sunlight. Its fully equipped, boasting everything you will want or need to prepare a hearty breakfast for your family before the days outing in the snow or dinner at the end of the day. Only 10 miles from the slopes of Snowshoe - this one fills up fast so make reservations early. Contact: Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, Cass, WV 24927. cassrailroad. com. 800-CALL-WVA or (304) 456-4300.
White Oak Village
On-site amenities at White Oak Campground include a laundromat, car wash, restroom and shower (for campers), as well as free internet access. The village has four cabins, and a restaurant is under construction.
Photos by Gail Hyer
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If you want to be close to winter activities at Snowshoe Mountain or the mysteries of the National Radio Astronomy Observatory in Green Bank, then the cabins at White Oak Village will be appealing. Conveniently located on Rt. 28/92 just south of Rt. 66, these cabins offer easy access to the main road with all the conveniences of home. Enjoy your winter escape in a private country cabin that is just right for a couple or small family. Each cabin is designed and furnished individually, unique in its own charm and character.
No matter your days activities, youll surrender to the natural beauty of the area. Contact White Oak Village, Dunmore WV 24934. whiteoakvillage wv.com. (304) 456-4949.
EJs Cottages
EJs Sitlngton cabin, above, provides local phone service, satellite TV, all linens, fully equipped kitchen, washer-dryer, BBQ, hot tub and a screened-in porch overlooking the Greenbrier River.
Photos by Gail Hyer
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EJs Cottages in Sitlington and Cass offer modern comfort with genuine mountain elegance, making a rustic ambiance with gas-burning fireplaces, hardwood paneling, and thick stone beams. The spacious, well-appointed kitchen and large dining table are ideal for family feasts or mid-morning brunches. The lodge like setting provides the warmth to ensure a memorable winter holiday. Within a short walk to the Greenbrier River Trail and a short drive to Snowshoe Mountain Resort, these cottages can accommodate from six to 16 so are perfect for groups, reunions or extended families. Contact: EJs Cottages, Dunmore and Cass, WV. ejcottages.net. 800-317-9120 or (304) 456-4917.
Green Bank Cabins
Green Bank Cabins, right, has three rustic, hand hewn log cabins that were built in 1810 in Monroe County. The cabins were moved to Green Bank in 1998 and restored. They can accommodate up to six people and each has one or two lofts.
Photos by Gail Hyer
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Green Bank Cabins in Green Bank along side Highway 28/92 can be a functional and enjoyable base camp for family outings, ski trips or excursions in the northern end of the county. Each cabin provides full-sized beds and a fully equipped kitchen. After your trip to Snowshoe be sure to enjoy the local Artisans Co-op in Green Bank, just down the road from these charming bungalows. The chinked log cabins will remind you of Little House on the Prairie! Contact: Green Bank Cabins, Green Bank, WV 24944. greenbank cabins.com. (304) 456-4410.
Elk River Touring Center
The Hickory cabin, right, at Elk River Touring is located on a hill two miles from the base of Snowshoe Mountain. Hickory sleeps six, with one bedroom downstairs with a queen bed, a loft upstairs with two queen beds. Full kitchen, one bath, phone, satellite TV, VCR, gas log fireplace, hot tub and washer and dryer.
Photos by Gail Hyer
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At the cabins at Elk River Touring Center the great outdoors is just outside your door and, oh, so easy to get to! Several of these cabins are within walking distance of the famous Elk River Touring Center, so don a pair of cross country skis and witness the lure of winter first hand in acres of unspoiled woods. Cabins have gas fireplaces for mood and fully furnished kitchens for convenience.
If its the rush of downhill you crave, the Elk River cabins are only a few miles from the famous Snowshoe Mountain Resort. For an outstanding dining experience, be sure to check out the first class Elk River Restaurant.
Contact: Elk River Touring Center, Slaty Fork, WV 26291. ertc.com 866-572-3771 or (304) 572-3771.
Some of the cabins in the northern portion of Pocahontas County are unique, cozy and historic; some are luxurious, indulgent and grand; some are on the mountainside, some are in historic towns, some are close to Snowshoe Mountain Resort. All are calm, relaxing, restful and fun!
Cliffside at Millpoint has been both a residence and boarding house, and the exterior of the home was showing its age,
Photos courtesy Bill Barnett
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Mill Point Tourist Home is coming full circle
Cliffside
Jaynell Graham-Awad
Staff Writer
Frequent travelers along Rts. 219 and 39 at Mill Point have had the pleasure of being spectators of a grand transformation. Located on a knoll just above the intersection of these highways is, what once was, and what is again an eye catching structure.
This stately home, originally known as Cliffside, was built for Preston Warn, who came into this county in 1905 to timber the headwaters of the Cranberry River and Hills Creek. Warn contracted with Winnie Kinnison to build a home, not only for his family but as a place to entertain his lumber buyers, as well.
Cliffside has undergone a transformation in the last year as workers have remodeled, renovated and restored, and will once again entertain guests as part of Barnett Cabins
Photos courtesy Bill Barnett
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Cliffside was purchased in October 2006 by Bill Barnett, of Barnett Builders Construction Group, and his wife, Duana. In a whirlwind of activity, the trees that once hid this beauty were gone and progress of the restoration and renovation of Cliffside could be seen on a daily basis.
Barnett had a good foundation on which to build, as the basement of this house is made of hand poured, 12 inch thick concrete walls. Three-by-12 inch floor joists run throughout the structure.
The restoration of Cliffside has been a walk through history for the Barnetts. A store journal for the years 1860-1862 was uncovered in one of the closets. The flooring, made of one and one-half inch oak boards which runs throughout this 20 room house was pre-drilled - and stamped on the back of each board is Mower Lumber Co. Cass. The narrow, winding staircase leading to the third floor servants quarters in still intact. And that third floor, with its open space and beautifully crafted windows, is Barnetts favorite spot.
The oak woodwork of the staircase, wainscot with double plate rails around the dining room, heavy door and window frames and baseboards, are all in excellent shape. Barnett found the original six foot by eight foot pocket doors in the attic. They have now been returned to the entrance of the living room off the main hallway. Most of the hardware had been lost, but Barnett found enough for a pattern to send to Vintage Hardware in Cooperstown, New York. The reproductions now grace the doors and it would take an expert to determine that they are not original. It is truly amazing that, through the years, the finish of the oak has remained untouched. Lanty McNeel, of Sinking Springs Farms, said, everyone has appreciated the fine woodwork and it has been well preserved.
Before and after: The front porch ceiling now sports fancy woodworking by Claude Sharp, Jr.
Photos courtesy Bill Barnett
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The Barnetts enlisted the help of Claude Sharp, Jr., along with Sherry Alderman, to refinish and paint the interior walls. But Sharps talent is most evident in the intricate wood designs applied to the exterior porch ceilings and the ceiling in the former screened-in porch, which will now be a sun room, off the soon to be installed commercial kitchen. As work progresses, black walnut cabinets have been added to the prep kitchen/ pass thru between the kitchen and dining area. The same designed, black walnut cabinets, made by Ronnie Wilfong, of Marlinton, will be used in the commercial kitchen, as well.
This remodeled bathroom showcases some of Gene Worlledges work with tile.
Photos courtesy Bill Barnett
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A truckload of 13-inch ceramic tile in five different colors became the palate for Gene Worlledge, of Summersville, as he crafted amazing artwork in the five and one-half baths.
Worlledge has created a theme in each of the baths, with one shower wall designed with a light house, with its beam radiating down the wall. To complete this room, Worlledge created a compass design in the center of the floor. Another bath has pine trees, loggers and cross cut saws to commemorate the homes beginnings.
But Worlledges best work is yet to come when he produces a mural of the Old Mill on the wall of the front entrance hall. This man can do more with ceramic tile than most artists can do with a brush.
Barnetts plan to landscape with honeysuckle, snowball bushes and other bushes and flowers.
Photos courtesy Bill Barnett
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A new entrance, with stone pillars and walls, gives an irresistible invitation to this grand home. New sidewalks are in place that will soon sport stone pavers and the Barnetts plan to landscape with honeysuckle, snowball bushes and other bushes and flowers of this homes youth.
A beautiful, stacked stone fireplace welcomes visitors as they enter the front door. A climb up the stairway finds a large window seat on the first landing and on the second floor, yet another stacked stone fireplace will call folks to sit a spell.
It is ironic that the Barnetts current home sits in the Stamping Creek Valley near what was once the site of the booming Warn Lumber Company operation. Through the window of their family room they can see the indentation made by the railroad which carried logs to the mill.
When the timbering operation was completed in 1913 and Warn was ready to move on, he sold Cliffside to Dr. Matt Wallace. The Wallace family contributed much to the community as it was Dr. Wallace who assisted with the birth of Pearl S. Buck, noted author and the only American woman to win both the Nobel Prize and the Pulitzer Prize for Literature. Dr. Wallaces daughter, Anna, was a teacher in the area and in 1923 became the first and only woman to serve as Superintendent of the county school system, Annas sister, Elizabeth, compiled a history of the Hillsboro community from its original settler and Hillsboros namesake, Richard Hill, to the churches, ministers, schools and teachers of this early village. It was interesting to read that the first teacher was a man by the name of Keenan who was considered a very learned man from the fact that he could read and write and had figured in the arithmetic as far as the rule of three. The Wallaces had a third daughter, Minnie, and a son, Fred. Fred was the only sibling to marry and he and his wife had a daughter who died at an early age. Thus, there were no descendants to carry on the Wallace name.
From the window in the former servants quarters on the third floor, you can see Rt. 219 snaking north toward Marlinton.
Photos courtesy Bill Barnett
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For some folks, the home is still referred to as the Anna Wallace house.
It was known not only for its impressive size and location but for the well manicured lawn in a time before riding mowers and weedeaters.
Former Richwood residents, Sanford and Louise Kirk, acquired the home and ran it for several years as The Mill Point Tourist home. It was during that time that the parlor stoves were replaced with brick fireplaces and plumbing was installed to allow for several bathrooms, adding to the one and only, which was located in the basement.
A post card dating from the late 50s show Cliffside as a Tourist Home.
Postcard courtesy Ruth Taylor
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Through the years and the changing of ownership, Cliffside became, again, a private residence and its beauty was hidden from the view of the passer-by.
That scenario changed with the Barnetts and their eye for detail.
With a tractor trailer load of insulation within its walls, new wiring and a first rate plumbing system in place, this restored home with its eight bedrooms has come full circle and will eventually be incorporated into Barnetts Cabins and will once again entertain guests when it becomes available for family gatherings.
Its beautiful, it is absolutely beautiful! is the only phrase that can describe this transformation.
shgiven@pocahontastimes.com