This week's City Face is Mary Matheny. Although she lives in Clarksburg, she is seen daiily in Bridgeport at Bridgeport Public Library, where she works. Mary and her daughter live in Mary's childhood home which was built in 1950 by her father and uncles.

 

Tell us about your current and previous jobs ... I began my working career in 1966 at Parsons-Sauders. I worked retail for 27 years and in 2008 began working at the Bridgeport Public Library. I am currently the administrative assistant and am in charge of the book donations and the library’s ongoing book sale, as well as many other projects dealing with the library’s different collections.

 

What are your hobbies? I have always been an avid reader and crafter. My favorite genre is mystery/suspense, but I am open to reading anything interesting. I mainly sew these days but have tried a variety of crafts. I have been a member of West Virginia Heritage Crafts co-op for 8 years. I do an average of 4 craft shows a year.

 

Tell us about your work in our community ... I am the Arts and Culture chairperson for the GFWC Bridgeport Woman’s Club. I have also served as Membership Committee chair. The Woman’s Club just hosted its Arts and Crafts competition on Sept. 8 at the Benedum Civic Center. We have a wonderful group of ladies in our club and I enjoy working with them throughout the year on all of our charitable projects.

 

I am also coordinating a Craft Show on November 5th at the Benedum Civic Center. Proceeds from this annual show go to various local community charities.

 

What is your favorite place to vacation? My favorite vacation spot is any place where there is a beach. We usually go to Myrtle Beach, Virginia Beach, or Ocean City. I love a good book and the sound of the waves. But I especially like the fresh seafood that is available.

 

What would be your dream vacation? My dream vacation would be to go on a riverboat trip and to Ireland.

 

What shows are you watching and what music do you listen to? My favorite TV programs are on HGTV or the Magnolia Network. I don’t watch many movies and no reality TV. I like old country music and a lot of the new country songs and artists as well as classic rock.

 

What is your favorite event in Bridgeport? My favorite time of year has always been the Christmas season, and I love the Light Up Night that the city does each year. The tree at the Civic Center and the city's decorations are always very pretty.