I know that many of you have noticed that there has been a lot of activity at the Uptown Event Center sponsored by the PWA of Harrison County.  I want to take a minute to give you all a brief explanation. After the first of the year and a quick review of our financial records, it was evident that we would have to take some action to continue operating from our building. We were advised that a possibility of selling the building was likely, and after calling a membership meeting it was decided that we would try to activate our entire membership and save our building for our use and the use of the entire community.  A quick study showed that we would have to take in approximately $4,500 per month to pay for all the monthly expenses and to keep a director and a maintenance man, part time. We studied our membership roster and found that a large percentage of our members are older women who have curtailed their activity but who are willing to get re involved to assure the continuation of a PWA Building in Harrison County.  We  have chosen to take a six to twelve month period to "save our Building."  At that time we will reassess our situation and continue from there.  Our income will be generated from membership dues, the rental of our building, the rental of our parking spaces, fundraiser's and from sponsor participation.  We will be turning to the community for assistance in these projects.  You might ask "How can we help?"  You can help by joining our organization for $25.00 a year, this will entitle you to use the building free once a year with your volunteer hours,  by supporting our fundraising projects and by renting our building for your private functions. We will also accept tax free donations.  The Uptown Event Center is one of the best kept secrets in our County.  We have recently redecorated, we have a full and complete modern kitchen with a dining room and we have an auditorium with a stage. Our rental fees are comparable or less than other facilities in our area.  For more information please call me 304 842 2662 and write  out a check now and mail it to 305 Washington Avenue, Clarksburg, WV.  26301. Better yet make plans to come visit our building and then spread the word among your friends.  Our Director is Elinda Carson and the number at the Center is 304 624 6881.

Well, Mary C. Queen did it  again.  She sure knows how to have a party.  She recently held a baby shower for her daughter at Pete Dye Club House. The food was delicious and if you have not eaten their recently you should call the Club House and make plans to do so. When I attend these events it always gives me an opportunity to reconnect with  my many friends.  I had a great time talking with Mary Anne Renzelli and her daughter, Gina, with Phyliss Oliveto, Jennifer Shillenburger and all the Fredericks and Renzellis. Betty Kummer and Kandi were also there and I noted that Betty is  sitting in bleachers again watching her talented grandson, Donald. And guess what?  We will be doing this again soon when Mary C's daughter gets married this summer.

Please try to attend the Black History Month luncheon that will be held on Saturday, February 28 at the Uptown Event Center.  The PWA always presents this program as part of their cultural awareness program.  Marjorie Fuller will be the keynote speaker  She is the director of the WVU Center for Black Culture.  The luncheon will be held at noon and reservations and tickets can be purchased by calling 304 624 6881.

For all of you Vera Bradley purse lovers mark your calendar for  March 15 for the PWA"S Purse Bingo.  We have purchased over 20 of the prettiest VB purses you will ever see and each will be filled with wonderful gifts.  The event will be held at the VFW hall and doors will open at noon. Bingo starts at 2:00.  Refreshments will be available.  Tickets are $20.00 and can be purchased from any PWA member or by calling Elinda at 304 624 6881.

We are heading into Lent full force. I hope you are becoming more active at your church. You can also donate time at the Mustard Seed, donate  clothing and Hygiene items to the poor.  The PWA operates a food bank in the Uptown Event Center and you are welcome to donate to it or refer someone who might be having a hard time during these winter months and might need some food assistance.

You know Dave planted kale this fall and it was coming up and I certainly hope it is surviving this snow and cold temperatures, I will let you know as soon as the snow melts.  Soup, soup soup... I have had potato soup, chicken soup, vegetable soup and chili this week.  I cannot wait to get on the back patio and grill a steak.

Stay in touch and until next week "Now You Have Heard It Through The Grapevine."