Several weeks ago I attended a workshop presented by the Clarksburg Convention and Visitors Bureau.  The workshop featured a speaker who presented the value of working with the public in the hospitality industry.

 

There were approximately 20 people in attendance and the presenter encouraged individuals who work in the industry to be well aware of making a first impression, especially to visitors to our area. I have always felt that this is very important because you may never have the opportunity to make a good first impression again.

 

Included in the "first impression" was the appearance of the individual and how important it is that people working in the industry dress to impress.  I have always felt that this applies to all walks of life.  It seems to me that some individuals, especially younger people do not feel that proper dress is important these days. I will be the first to say that the young man with long hair, tattoos and tattered jeans can be as nice and personable as the man in the suit but will you have the second opportunity to find this out?  I especially feel that the first impression is very important to the younger generation. 

 

My opinion is that the teacher in the classroom who is professionally dressed, instead of in jeans and a t-shirt will receive more respect.  I find myself comparing individuals when I happen to be in a crowd and invariably I will lean to the well-dressed individual more often than to the casual person. I realize that under some circumstances we cannot dictate dress code but it seems that individuals could use some common sense when entering into certain professions.  You may not work in the hospitality industry but when working with the public a first impression is very important. You may be more successful than you think.

 

Last week the Professional Women's Association held a luncheon for ten "Women of Distinction" who live right here in Harrison County.  Once again, there was a sellout crowd and those women honored were a great group.  I personally want to congratulate each and every one of them and praise the PWA for sponsoring this program. It certainly calls attention to the many women in the area who contribute to the betterment of our community.

 

If you are interested in finding out more about this program call the PWA at 304 624 6881.

 

Please mark your calendar for the Americana Music Festival event that is coming up at the PWA's Uptown Event Center in July.  We're really want to become part of a growing appreciation for the arts in Harrison County and we need the support of the public to do that.  Please be sure to get your tickets in advance by calling the PWA. 

 

The American Music Festival is a two-day event featuring some of the best live music east of the Mississippi River.  You can purchase tickets with or without a themed dinner on either night. I can assure you that it will be a great time to have dinner and enjoy good music.

 

There is one thing that this illness that I am experiencing does for me and that is that I am very current on the news. I have been so saddened about the happenings in Orlando and about the little boy who died at Disney.  I have stood in the very same spot at the resort that this happened and have seen alligators in that pond.  My heart is very heavy this week for all of this depressing news. This only makes me realize that I have a lot to be thankful for.

 

A Happy Father's Day to all you fathers.  I have spent some time thinking about my own father this week and realizing what a wonderful dad he was.  I hope that each of you had the opportunity to spend time with your fathers, because you never know when they may not be here.

 

It is vacation time and I hope that you are planning get away for you and your families.  Remember that you can have mini vacations right here in our area.  Plan on attending some of the fairs and festivals. If you are traveling far, please be observant of your surroundings, watch the children and be safe. Check our local listings for Fourth of July celebrations.  This is one of my favorite times of year as you all know how much I enjoy fireworks.

 

A short note about the gardens.  To this point the weather has been great and the rain seems to come at just the right time.  It will not be long till we will have fresh zucchini and I hope I will be able to share it with my friends and family.

 

Keep in touch with me at 304 624 6882 or at spanishqueen86@aol.com and until next week "Now You Have Heard It through the Grapevine.